Cayetano Pushes for Mass Resignation, Snap Election to Restore Public Trust

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano has proposed that all national officials—including the President, Vice President, senators, and members of Congress—resign from their posts to pave the way for a snap election, in a bold bid to address what he described as a deep public crisis of trust in government.

In a Facebook post on Saturday, Cayetano lamented that public confidence in politicians and government institutions has significantly eroded.

“I dare say, now more than ever in our history, politicians are suspects! People have lost trust in government and government officials. Honestly, who can blame them?” Cayetano wrote.

Snap Election as ‘Clean Slate’

Under the proposal, a nationwide snap election would be held after the mass resignation. A key condition: no incumbent national official would be allowed to run for one election cycle, ensuring a genuine fresh start.

Cayetano emphasized that government bureaucracy would continue to function during the transition, while local officials such as governors, mayors, and barangay chairpersons would stay in their posts because they generally maintain higher levels of public trust.

“No drama, no excuses, no recycling. Just a clean slate for the Filipino people. A turning point leading to renewal and revival,” he said.

Call for Sacrifice, Not People Power

Cayetano said the move should not be seen as a call for a People Power revolution but rather a voluntary act of sacrifice from national leaders to reset the political system.

“If we truly serve them, then starting over shouldn’t scare us. Because real change starts with radical honesty — and the courage to admit when it’s time to step aside,” he added.

The senator encouraged fellow officials and citizens to reflect and pray over the proposal as a potential path toward meaningful change.

Political Context

The proposal comes amid mounting criticism over alleged corruption and governance failures, including controversies surrounding flood-control projects and budget insertions. Public frustration has led to widespread protests, with growing calls for accountability among top officials.

While Cayetano’s idea has yet to be formalized through legislation, it has sparked early debate online and in political circles, with supporters praising its boldness and critics questioning its legal and practical feasibility.