President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday lightened the mood during the Bagong Bayani Awards 2025 as he teased First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos about her growing involvement in government activities, jokingly suggesting that she might soon be part of the ongoing Cabinet reshuffle.

Delivering his salutations before awardees and guests, Marcos noted that the First Lady has been accompanying the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) on several of its programs for Filipino migrant workers in Europe.

“She has become our ambassador now for migrant workers, it’s your new designation,” the President said, drawing laughter from the crowd.

“’Di ba magka-Cabinet shakeup tayo? So kasama ka na doon sa ano (Aren’t we having a Cabinet shake-up? So you’re included in that),” Marcos punned his wife.

The President’s comment came in the wake of a significant shift in the administration’s top ranks. Former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin and Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman recently vacated their posts.

Palace Press Officer Atty. Claire Castro earlier announced the resignation of Bersamin and Pangandaman “out of delicadeza” as investigations continue into alleged corruption within the government.

Following the Palace’s announcement, Bersamin was succeeded by Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, while Budget Undersecretary Rolando Toledo replaced Pangandaman.

Despite the ongoing Cabinet shakeup controversy, Marcos maintained a light and jovial tone during the event, emphasizing the government’s continued commitment to supporting overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and recognizing them as key contributors to national development.

The Bagong Bayani Awards honor exceptional OFWs who have demonstrated excellence, professionalism, and service to their communities and the nation.