MALACANANG has categorically denied issuing a directive for government undersecretaries to submit courtesy resignations, despite ongoing performance reviews within the administration.
Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro clarified on Friday that no memorandum order has been issued instructing undersecretaries to step down from their posts.
“We have not yet received a memo requiring the Undersecretaries to submit a courtesy resignation, but their performance is still being evaluated,” Castro stated during a Palace press briefing.
This clarification comes in the wake of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s May 22nd directive for Cabinet secretaries, agency heads, and presidential advisors to submit their resignations following the 2025 midterm elections.
The President’s aim was to recalibrate the administration’s priorities and services.
President Marcos subsequently clarified that his directive was not intended as a sweeping Cabinet revamp, emphasizing that the resignations are not a one-time event.
He highlighted that undersecretaries are currently undergoing performance reviews, which he described as “more rigorous” and extending beyond just government officials.
The President also announced plans for quarterly performance reviews across the government as part of his administration’s ongoing recalibration efforts. The denial of a courtesy resignation order for undersecretaries suggests a more nuanced approach to performance evaluation and potential adjustments within the government structure.
