University of Santo Tomas (UST) Political Science Department Chair Dennis Coronacion said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent directive to “recalibrate” his administration is likely an attempt to regain control, rather than a sign of a “lame-duck” presidency.

In an interview with DAILY TRIBUNE’s online show Usapang OFW Thursday, Coronacion said Marcos’ call for Cabinet resignations could be a strategy to remove officials who have become “too comfortable” and are no longer effectively implementing his agenda.

“If the results would generate a positive outcome, we should expect positive development, maybe you would immediately think that perhaps there’s an intent to replace the cabinet members because they are no longer effective in terms of implementing his programs, in terms of realizing his vision for the country, maybe they’re no longer helping,” Coronacion said.

He stressed that Cabinet secretaries, as the president’s “alter egos,” are expected to implement his policies.

Marcos recently signaled openness to reconciling with Vice President Sara Duterte and her family, stating he seeks peace with all political opponents. Coronacion described this gesture as strategic, saying it is not too late for Marcos to regain momentum.

However, he cautioned that the president’s leverage may weaken in the coming years, especially when seeking peace with opposition forces.

“Even if he says he wants reconciliation, what does he have to offer them? Ideally, it’s good optics, but realistically, any offer of peace comes with expectations,” Coronacion said.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go recently suggested that Marcos should allow former President Rodrigo Duterte to return to the country if he is serious about reconciliation. Coronacion clarified that this matter is beyond the President’s jurisdiction.

Regarding the impeachment complaint against Vice President Sara Duterte, Coronacion said it could still be used as a bargaining chip.

“If the President can find a way to stop it, and he likely can, that could reflect positively on him. But it also depends on whether the public and opposition view his peace overture as sincere,” he said.

Coronacion dismissed the idea of a “graceful exit” being necessary for Marcos.

“Any offer of peace, regardless of the result, can help bolster the image of the leader making it,” he said. “If the opposition rejects it, then the president still has the option to push his agenda forward, especially with a solid majority in the House and some remaining support in the Senate.”