Chiz: Marcos move a ‘mid-game substitution’

Senate President Francis "Chiz" Escudero on Thursday expressed support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recent call for the courtesy resignations of his Cabinet secretaries, describing the move as a necessary “mid-game substitution” in response to growing public discontent.

In a statement, Escudero commended the President for acknowledging problems within his administration and taking “immediate action” to recalibrate the government’s direction by holding top officials accountable.

“Earlier this week, I expressed support for the President’s call to set aside politics and focus on the needs of our people. I am thankful that he has acknowledged that there is a problem, displayed sensitivity to the sentiments of our countrymen, and humbly taken responsibility,” Escudero said.

The Senate President cited Marcos' move to hold his Cabinet members responsible for how government programs are being carried out.

"I am thankful that he has acknowledged that there is a problem, displayed sensitivity to the sentiments of our countrymen, and humbly taken responsibility by addressing it and demanding accountability from those tasked with implementing the vital programs of the administration: the members of his Cabinet," Escudero said.

“Calling for the courtesy resignations of his official family is a good start," he continued.

Escudero said Marcos' order "highlights the need for the entire bureaucracy to recalibrate and align government initiatives with the expectations of our people."

"For when government fails to meet these expectations, it is the public who suffers—and I commend the President for taking immediate action," he added.

Marcos’ decision to demand the resignations of his Cabinet members comes amid mounting criticism over perceived inefficiencies and internal discord within the executive branch.

Escudero noted that such a move signals a much-needed effort to realign government programs with the expectations of the Filipino people.

He also stressed that Marcos needs to build a team of trustworthy and competent partners to effectively implement vital government programs.

"The President cannot implement government programs by himself; kailangan niya ng mapagkakatiwalaang katulong, dapat meron siyang matinong katuwang (he needs trustworthy aides and must have dependable and competent partners)," said Escudero.

"I view this revamp as a mid-game substitution—a reshuffling of key players based on their performance."

Escudero said the Filipino people demand more than reorganization; they want real change in how the government is run.

"But via their ballots, our countrymen told us they want more than just a personnel adjustment. The President’s course correction must include his entire political house, starting with his own backyard," he said.

Without naming names, Escudero warned the President against retaining “reckless allies who squandered his goodwill and burned through his political capital for selfish ends.”

He urged all political leaders to unite—not to serve the interests of any party or individual, but to prioritize the welfare of the Filipino people.

"Much more still needs to be done. Simula pa lamang ito. Ang mahalaga ngayon ay magtulungan tayong lahat—hindi para sa kapakanan ng anumang partido o politiko, kundi para sa kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan (This is only the beginning. What’s important now is that we all work together—not for the benefit of any party or politician, but for the welfare of our fellow Filipinos)," he said.