Malacañang Brushes Off Cabinet Reshuffle Rumors as Mere Speculation

In a recent statement, Malacañang dismissed rumors of an impending Cabinet reshuffle under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as mere speculation. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, in a casual interview, expressed his lack of knowledge regarding any potential reorganization and emphasized his reluctance to entertain such rumors. ‘Speculations are common, but we can’t confirm anything until it actually happens. There’s no solid reason to discuss it yet,’ Bersamin remarked when questioned about possible changes in the President’s Cabinet. He reiterated that such rumors are abundant but refused to give them credence. This comes after President Marcos appointed Vivencio Dizon, former head of the Bases Conversion and Development Authority, to replace Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, who is set to resign on February 21 due to health concerns. Bersamin clarified that Marcos did not request Bautista’s resignation, stating that Bautista’s decision was influenced by his health needs. ‘The President has always been considerate of his Cabinet members’ health. After discussions, it was evident that Secretary Bautista needed time away from his duties to recuperate,’ Bersamin explained.