WHO'S IN, WHO'S OUT? Bersamin bares first phase of Cabinet shakeup

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin revealed the first phase of a massive shakeup of President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s cabinet at a press briefing on Friday. This comes a day after 52 officials tendered their courtesy resignations following a directive from the president.

Bersamin himself will remain in his post, after his resignation was rejected.

“The President declined the courtesy resignation that I tendered… It’s a sign, a manifestation of his full trust,” Bersamin said.

Economic team retained

Marcos’ economic team remains intact with Trade Secretary Cristina Roque, Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) chief Arsenio Balisacan, Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, and Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go.

Loyzaga axed

Bersamin announced thFat Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia “Toni” Loyzaga will be replaced by Energy Secretary Raphael Lotilla.

When asked if Loyzaga had underperformed, leading to her resignation being accepted Bersamin replied, "siguro” (maybe).

He noted there was no controversy behind her departure, though there was “a perception that she was often out of the country.”

"Wag na natin siyang husgahan (let's not judge)," he said, adding that it is now time for Loyzaga to rest.

Marcos doing the shuffle

Engineer and former Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) Undersecretary Jose Ramon Aliling was promoted to department chief, replacing Jose Rizalino Acuzar, who will now serve as Presidential Adviser for the Pasig River.

Aliling previously led the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) housing program and the Pasig River “Bigyan Buhay Muli” project.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo will replace Permanent Representative to the United Nations Antonio Lagdameo.

Manalo’s post as Foreign Affairs secretary will be filled by Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro.

Meanwhile, Sharon Garin was appointed officer-in-charge of the Department of Energy.