Top officials from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) have formally submitted their resignations in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s initiative to reorganize government leadership. The move, confirmed late last week, signals alignment with the administration’s aim to enhance the efficiency and focus of state-run institutions.

PAGCOR leadership resigns to back Marcos’ government realignment:

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Alejandro H. Tengco announced that he, along with the full PAGCOR Board of Directors, had voluntarily tendered their resignations even before Malacañang issued an official request for government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to do so.

“We serve at the pleasure of the President,” Tengco stated, as reported by Daily Tribune. “And we will accept whatever the Chief Executive’s decision will be.”

The resignations include PAGCOR President and COO Wilma Eisma, as well as Directors Jose Maria Ortega, Francis Democrito Concordia, and Gilbert Cesar Remulla. Their decision to step down was made in advance, underscoring their collective support for the President’s leadership recalibration across various agencies.

The resignations come amid a broader call from the Marcos administration for leadership reshuffling within GOCCs. Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed that the voluntary resignations are under review as part of the government’s ongoing strategy to reposition key leadership posts. This is intended to ensure that institutions like PAGCOR operate in closer alignment with national priorities and deliver improved service outcomes.

Bersamin explained that the administration is currently assessing these courtesy resignations in line with the President’s call to elevate the effectiveness of government bodies. This broader initiative is part of President Marcos’ drive to ensure that public institutions remain responsive to the country’s evolving needs.

Senate postpones Duterte impeachment start due to legislative priorities:

In a related shift in government proceedings, the Philippine Senate has delayed the scheduled reading of the articles of impeachment against Vice President Sara Duterte. Originally slated for June 2, the presentation is now set for June 11.

Senate President Francis Escudero attributed the rescheduling to the need to address several pending legislative measures before the current congressional session ends. At least 12 significant bills remain on the agenda.

“With only six session days before the sine die adjournment, it is imperative for the Senate and the House of Representatives to prioritize the passage of these measures, consistent also with the administration’s thrust to align our government with the people’s needs and expectations,” Escudero noted.

The delay will push back the Senate’s transition into an impeachment court, which had been planned to begin on June 3, following the formal presentation of the charges. While the Duterte impeachment proceedings remain a matter of national attention, they are now on hold due to scheduling constraints tied to legislative deadlines.