Zambales Gov. Ebdane in a press conference on Friday. Photo by Malou Dungog
IBA, Zambales – Zambales Governor Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr. left his office teary-eyed in the middle of a press conference Friday afternoon to respond to the allegations and accusations on ballot switching directed to him by former Zambales Provincial Police Director, Senior Supt. Rafael Santiago Jr.
The press conference coincided with the mourning of the province on the passing of a leader and father in the person of esteemed and honored Zambales 2nd district representative Antonio Magsaysay Diaz.
In a recent press conference, Ebdane stressed that he will answer all the accusations hurled against him in the proper forum.
“Regarding the matters publicized in the news on the election irregularities, I reiterate my earlier statement that I await the proper forum to respond to the allegations and accusations that are being directed at my person,” Ebdane said.
“As of this time, I have yet to receive the official affidavit that details the allegations which shall serve as the reference for any statement or action on my part.
I shall abide by the legal process, and proceed with utmost prudence as has been my practice throughout my life in public service,” he said.
Santiago, who was assigned in Zambales as Philippine National Police provincial director before the 2010 presidential and national elections, earlier disclosed that the governor who was then PNP chief tasked him to switch election ballots in favor of former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
“As far as I know, Santiago was an outstanding police officer, but due to some complaints raised by the mayors of Subic, Masinloc and Sta. Cruz, a task force was created to look into these matters,” Ebdane said.
As governor, kahit meron siyang pagkakamali, I will not dwell on it. I will not look at the past but I will look forward and do my job,” he added.
The governor said that he does not hold any grudge against Santiago. “He was like a son to me because he is my godson and like a family to me.”
Ebdane said, that his only request to Santiago is that the latter to return the 50 units of electronic bikes donated by the provincial government for PNP use, the explosives seized at Coto mines in Masinloc, Zambales last year that might be used in terrorist actions, and other matters still under investigation.
“Only after I received a copy of the allegation that I will dwell on it. I will look forward and I have no time to look back,” Ebdane said.
“I will never give in to something that will affect my province and I can sacrifice my personal desire or personal interest if it will affect my province,” he added.
Meanwhile, the League of Municipal Mayors of Zambales thru secretary general and San Felipe Mayor Carol Farinas signed a manifesto of support to the governor.
