Stay or go, Remulla says he’s ready

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla is ready to go wherever he’s needed — or stay and keep doing his job — depending on how President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reshapes his Cabinet.

Speaking on behalf of the justice chief, Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano said on Saturday that Remulla remains confident in the contributions he’s made to the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the broader justice sector.

“The SoJ (Secretary of Justice) is confident in the value he has brought to the DoJ, the justice sector, and this administration,” according to Clavano. “That said, he respects any decision the President may make regarding his position. He will faithfully comply with a new assignment, if any, or continue to deliver the best way he can at the DoJ.”

Remulla submitted his courtesy resignation on 22 May, following President Marcos’s directive to all Cabinet members to step down in preparation of a post-election government reset.

“I am a soldier, I serve at the pleasure of the President,” Remulla told reporters, echoing his support for the President’s call.

He said that as a leader, it’s crucial for Marcos to have full freedom in choosing the people he trusts, those he believes are the best in their respective roles.

“There’s always a review — that’s normal,” he said. “It’s just to give the President a free hand. Every leader has their own style.”

Marcos said the mass courtesy resignations were not personal, but part of a broader effort to recalibrate his administration after his alliance’s poor showing in the recent midterm elections.

“This is not about personalities — it’s about performance, alignment, and urgency,” the President said.