Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon on Thursday expressed full support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for Cabinet members to submit courtesy resignations, describing it as a bold move that underscores the administration’s commitment to public service over politics.
During a press conference at the Department of Transportation (DOTr) central office, Dizon said he would immediately comply with the President’s directive and submit his resignation after the briefing.
He described President Marcos’ latest directive as a strong message that the government “means business.”
“I cannot remember a time where a directive like this that sweeps across the entire government has ever been done by a sitting president. And I think it’s really a testament to the President’s will, to the President’s strength, and as a leader,” said Dizon, a 20-year veteran public official.
“And as his people who he has handpicked to help him, we are duty-bound to follow that lead. And I will submit my courtesy resignation. I will sign it right after this and I will send it right after this press conference because that is our responsibility,” the DOTr chief added.
Dizon emphasized that the President’s call highlights his determination to hold the entire government accountable.
“We need to focus on the people. We need to stop the politicking and the chaos. We need to work for our countrymen,” he said, echoing the President’s message.
Dizon was appointed to lead the transportation department on February 13, succeeding erstwhile chief Jaime Bautista. The incumbent DOTr secretary is scheduled for a confirmation hearing at the Commission on Appointments on June 3.
“You know, typically, Cabinet members always say ‘we serve at the pleasure of the President,’ and that’s true,” Dizon said. “But with this move, the President is reminding us that ultimately, we serve at the pleasure of the people.”
Malacañang earlier announced that President Marcos has ordered all Cabinet to submit courtesy resignations “to realign government with the people’s expectations.”
