The President possesses the power of removal by implication from other powers expressly vested in him.

1. It is implied from his power to appoint.

2. Being executive in nature, it is implied from the constitutional provision vesting the executive power in the President.

3. It may be implied from his function to take care that laws be properly executed; for without it, his orders for law enforcement might not be effectively carried out.

4. The power may be implied from the President’s control over the administrative departments, bureaus, and offices of the government. Without the power to remove, it would not be always possible for the President to exercise his power of control. [Sinco, Philippine Political Law, p 275 (1954ed)]


Officials that cannot be removed by the President

However, the President cannot remove officials appointed by him where the Constitution prescribes certain methods for separation of such officers from public service, e.g. Chairmen and Commissioners of Constitutional Commissions who can be removed only by impeachment, or judges who are subject to the disciplinary authority of the Supreme Court. 


For cause and in accordance with the prescribed administrative procedure.

In the cases where the power of removal is lodged in the President, the same may be exercised only for cause as may be provided by law, and in accordance with the prescribed administrative procedure.


Members of the career service.

Members of the career civil service of the Civil Service who are appointed by the President may be directly disciplined by him [Villaluz v. Zaldivar (1965)] provided that the same is for cause and in accordance with the procedure prescribed by law. 


Members of the Cabinet.

Cabinet members and such officers whose continuity in office depends upon the pleasure of the president may be replaced at any time, but legally speaking, their separation is effected not by removal but by expiration of their term. [Alajar vs. Alba]