Zambales Governor Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr. was sworn in as chairperson of the Regional Development Council (RDC) during a ceremony at the Balin Sambali in Iba, Zambales, on 29 October 2025.

Executive Judge Santiago M. Beltran Jr. administered the oath-taking of Ebdane, who was joined by Board Member Rundy Ebdane and Botolan Mayor Omar Ebdane, as well as Dir. Nerissa T. Esguerra, regional director of DepDev 3.

“Isang malaking karangalan para sa lalawigan ng Zambales ang pagkakahirang natin bilang chairperson ng RDC Region III, patunay ng tiwala at respeto sa ating kakayahan at liderato sa pagsusulong ng kaunlaran sa buong Rehiyon Tatlo,” Ebdane said. (“It is a great honor for the province of Zambales to be appointed as chairperson of RDC Region III, a testament to the trust and respect for our capability and leadership in promoting progress throughout Region III.”)

Ebdane succeeded former Tarlac Governor and Tarlac City Mayor Susan Yap. Past RDC 3 chairs were also governors known for their strong leadership and success in driving their provinces’ economic growth.

“Asahan po ninyo na mas paiigtingin pa natin ang mga programa at proyekto para sa mas konektadong ekonomiya, mas matatag na pamayanan, at mas maunlad na Central Luzon,” he added. (“You can expect us to further strengthen our programs and projects for a more connected economy, more resilient communities, and a more progressive Central Luzon.”)

The oath-taking coincided with the Provincial Development Council (PDC) Full Council Meeting of the Provincial Government of Zambales, which aimed to strengthen coordination and collaboration among government agencies and local government units.

The meeting served as a platform to introduce new members of the PDC Executive Committee and discuss updates on implemented programs, projects, and activities (PPAs) for calendar year 2025.

These reports included infrastructure updates from Provincial Engineering Office’s Engr. Ferdie Dagsaan, agriculture developments from Provincial Agriculturist Crisostomo Rabaca, a health report from San Marcelino District Hospital chief Dr. Cresencio T. Gonzales, and the 20 percent Development Fund for CY 2026 presented by PGDH-PPDC, PPDO Emmanuel C. Adaoag.

Local chief executives of Zambales towns, PDC members, officials from national government agencies, civil society organizations, and provincial department heads attended the meeting.