Ex-Public Works chief ousts Zambales governor, forms new team

Former public works chief Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. has been proclaimed as the duly elected governor of Zambales, the provincial board of canvassers said on Thursday.

Ebdane garnered 125,202 votes from the 13 towns of Zambales as against 96,112 votes received by his rival, re-electionist Amor Deloso, Comelec officer Lydia Pangilinan said.

Ebdane credited his triumph to the electorate’s clamor for change.

“That’s the reason for our overwhelming victory,” he said. “By voting for change, (you have) breathed new life to or common dream of realizing the true development of Zambales and its people.”

At the same time, Ebdane called on the newly elected Zambales officials to form a team that will provide direction for the speedy development of the province.

“We have just proven that, together, we can effect change and bring about a new order in our community. But in the next days and months and years, we shall again be challenged to prove that, together, we can also bring about the successful transformation, genuine development and true empowerment of Zambales and its people,” Ebdane said.

Rep. Antonio Diaz, who was re-elected as representative of the Zambales second district, hailed Ebdane’s victory as a fresh wind of change after 42 years. “Something unusual has happened, and we have to take advantage of that for the good of our people.” by Cecille Garcia - manilastandardtoday.com