Botolan, Zambales – Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane, together with reelectionist, Vice Governor Jaqueline Rose Khonghun, took their oath of office before administering judge, Honorable Santiago Beltran Jr. of the Regional Trial Court Branch 69 and 71, while the elected members of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan of Zambales and 2nd District representative Doris E. Manniquiz, took their oath of office before Honorable Maribel Mariano Beltran of RTC Branch 13 at the Botolan Peoples Plaza, Botolan, Zambales on June 30, 2025.
In his inaugural speech, “This term is more than a continuation; it’s marking to continue my chapter of my service as your Governor,” Ebdane said.
He pledged to continue the development of Zambales and bring it to its fullest potential under his leadership.
“Today, we have a deeper mission ahead of us: to be stewards of hope and guardians of trust, and together, forge a shared future for our province,” Ebdane said.
Governor Ebdane sights his achievements anchored in services, driven by excellence specifically on the following systems:
HEALTH. We have been continuously improving our healthcare system by employing more healthcare specialists, upgrading our hospitals and our facilities.
EDUCATION. We have expanded our educational assistance program through “Handog Edukasyon” while currently strengthening our strategic partnership with our provincial educational institutions.
AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES. We initiated the founding of the Zambales Green Mango Valley, along with the Zambales Maritime Development Council.
INFRASTRUCTURE. We invested in infrastructure development and prioritized accessible, high-impact projects including roads, schools, and other government facilities.
SOCIAL SERVICES. We 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;
GOVERNANCE. We institutionalized transparency, digitized property taxation, and positioned Zambales as a model of fiscal independence. No longer dependent, we have become more self-sufficient and scalable than ever before.
Fifteen years ago, we envisioned the future of Zambales anchored on the “10-Point Comprehensive Plan for Inclusive Growth and Development.” Today that vision has taken shape through our steadfast pursuit of our strategic plan. In our hand lies the future of Zambales, and as we lead tomorrow today, we need to be bolder in our actions and keep our momentum aligned with the pace of change. It demands incredible commitment, alignment, and consistency in all our actions. Ebdane added.
“Choosing to serve our province and our people has been the most important decision of my life, one that I hold with deep pride and purpose. There is no greater calling than to dedicate one’s life in service to others. Truly, public service is both an enriching and humbling experience, and made even more meaningful because of you.
We shall continue to reach the summit of success. While we see the view as magnificent from where we are today, but mind you, the task isn’t over yet. Expect obstacles along the way. Our greatest work lies ahead, and it’s urging us to roll our sleeves up again! We must finish what we have started.” Ebdane concluded.