Marcos's Joke Amidst Cabinet Shake-up: A Moment of Levity in Tense Times

President Marcos Jr. Cracks a Joke Amidst Cabinet Resignations Manila, Philippines – In a surprising turn of events, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lightened the mood at a Malacañang Palace event on May 22, 2025, by making a joke about his Cabinet. This occurred mere hours after he requested the courtesy resignation of all Cabinet-rank secretaries. The event, which involved the presentation of newly enacted laws to stakeholders, was attended by numerous Cabinet members, who were present as the President delivered his remarks. The video footage of the event shows the President's lighthearted comment eliciting laughter from the assembled Cabinet officials. One Cabinet member, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, "It was a tense situation, but the President's joke helped ease the tension." The courtesy resignations, a common practice in Philippine politics, are intended to allow for a review of the Cabinet's performance and to ensure accountability. While the President's joke provided a moment of levity, the underlying issue of the Cabinet reshuffle remains significant. This incident underscores the complex interplay between formality and informality within the Philippine political landscape.