BOTOLAN, Zambales – Re-elected Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. marked the beginning of a new term in provincial leadership by reiterating his administration’s dedication to inclusive growth, innovation, and public service during inaugural ceremonies held at the Botolan People’s Plaza.
In his address, Ebdane underscored the province’s ongoing mission to transform Zambales into a “province of opportunity, prosperity, and resilience,” calling for unity and forward-looking collaboration among local leaders and communities.
“What we once dreamed, we now build. Cognizant of the tangible results of our collective efforts doing the hard part, the plans we once wrote on paper now stand physically as roads, hospitals, school buildings, and thriving communities,” he declared.
The governor highlighted significant improvements across key sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and social services.
He cited the upgrading of local hospitals, the expansion of the “Handog Edukasyon” scholarship program, and the establishment of the Zambales Green Mango Valley and Zambales Maritime Development Council as milestones realized in partnership with provincial institutions and stakeholders.
Ebdane placed particular emphasis on the expansion of social services, such as livelihood support, agricultural grants, and financial assistance to indigent families.
“We therefore placed the highest value on preserving our people’s dignity by expanding social service programs, including livelihood support, agricultural grants, medical and health initiatives, and financial assistance, particularly for our indigent constituents,” he noted.
Addressing governance reforms, Ebdane reported advancements in transparency, the digitalization of property taxation, and the attainment of fiscal independence.
“We began with limited means, but through disciplined stewardship, Zambales is now classified as a First-Class Province,” he said, citing the province’s rise as a model for local government.
The governor also outlined the pillars of effective governance, focusing on efficient resource management, adaptive processes, and well-defined priorities.
He referenced Zambales’ swift pandemic response, disciplined planning, and the resilience demonstrated by the community in overcoming challenges.
Looking ahead, Ebdane presented the administration’s roadmap based on the 10-Point Comprehensive Plan for Inclusive Growth and Development.
He set key targets such as achieving health equity, building a self-sustaining economy, advancing smart infrastructure, and fostering a data-driven, responsive government that can proactively address new challenges.
Governor Ebdane called upon public servants and all stakeholders to uphold institutional integrity and adopt a collective approach to leadership.
“Our positions and titles are not a license to do less, nor a privilege to enjoy. They are a responsibility to do more for others, and to be more for others,” he emphasized, urging continued commitment to public service.
Moreover, Ebdane expressed heartfelt gratitude to Zambaleños and fellow officials, recognizing that building a lasting legacy for the province requires unity, determination, and the active participation of every sector. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)