President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.clarified on May 29, 2026, that he has no plans to remove Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jonvic Remulla, responding to circulating rumors suggesting otherwise.The President addressed the issue during a media interview in Tokyo, Japan, following his state visit.Marcos emphasized that the rumors might be fueled by individuals hoping to take over Remulla’s position.

Despite criticisms over Remulla's inability to secure the arrest of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who is evading an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for alleged crimes against humanity during the Duterte administration’s drug war, Marcos expressed continued satisfaction with Remulla’s performance.

Additionally, Marcos touched on recent Cabinet changes, noting the appointment of Francis Tolentino as the new Labor Secretary following Bienvenido Laguesma’s resignation for health reasons.

The President also indicated the possibility of appointing other qualified candidates who lost in the 2025 elections, aiming to utilize their talents in government service.

Marcos highlighted that many of these individuals, whether senatorial candidates or otherwise, could contribute effectively to the administration, stressing the importance of maximizing available skills for public service.