"No matter how many times Cabinet members are changed, the public sector and economy will not be transformed unless real reforms for social and economic transformation are undertaken."

AMID COURTESY CABINET RESIGNATIONS

- By LOUISE MAUREEN SIMEON

Marcos greeted his Cabinet yesterday morning with an order to submit their courtesy resignations, to give him elbow room to evaluate their performance and decide who will stay and who will go.

Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman and Finance Secretary Ralph Recto heeded the call, emphasizing that they both serve at the pleasure of the President.

Pangandaman said she supports Marcos' decisions, knowing that they are always made with the best interests of the Filipino people in mind.

In a Viber message, Pangandaman said she would continue working until Marcos makes his decision, especially as the government has a timeline to follow with regard to the upcoming budget season.

Recto, for his part, maintained that the President's "bold decision" was made with the desire to put the people and country first.

"The President carries the heavy burden of leading the nation through complex global and domestic challenges," Recto said.

"That I serve at the pleasure of the President is a thought that has never been lost on me from the day I assumed office," he added.

Those closely working with the economic team have mixed opinions on what is to come.