21-anyos na babaeng anak ng pinaslang na mayor, wagi; Jamila Ruma, bagong alkalde ng Rizal, Cagayan

- The 21-year-old daughter of the slain mayor of Rizal, Cagayan, won this year’s elections and has been proclaimed as the mayor-elect of the said town

- It can be recalled that her father, Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma, was assassinated during the campaign

- He was replaced by his daughter, 21-year-old Jamila, and she went on to defeat the political rivals of her father, retired generals Ralph Mamauag and Florence Littaua

- Jamila is now one of the youngest elected officials in the Philippines

Jamila Ruma, the 21-year-old daughter of the late Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma, has been proclaimed the new mayor of the municipality. Her win is regarded by many as historic.

Her victory not only marks a personal triumph amidst tragedy but also positions Ruma as one of the youngest elected officials in the Philippines.

The young mayor-elect secured a decisive win in the recent elections, garnering 5,134 votes. She surpassed her opponents, retired generals Ralph Mamauag (3,661 votes) and Florence Littaua (170 votes). The town’s board of canvassers declared her the mayor-elect early Monday morning, May 13.

Ruma’s candidacy emerged after the shocking assassination of her father, Joel Ruma, on April 23, during a campaign sortie in Barangay Illuru Sur.

He was reportedly shot by a sniper. The Philippine National Police (PNP) investigated the incident, and a special investigation task group (SITG) was formed. Prior to his death, Mayor Ruma had faced death threats.

Despite the circumstances, Jamila Ruma stepped forward to continue her father's legacy. Her mother, Vice Mayor Brenda Ruma, also succeeded in her reelection bid, ensuring continuity in the local leadership.

Jamila Ruma is a recent graduate of De La Salle University-Manila, where she earned a degree in Development Studies.

She excelled academically, consistently appearing on the Dean’s List and receiving awards for Best Thesis and Best Thesis Presenter.

Following her proclamation, Ruma expressed her gratitude on social media, thanking those who supported her. She promised to honor her father’s legacy and bring fresh leadership to Rizal, Cagayan.

Public reaction to Ruma’s victory has been one of both support and hope. Many see her win as a symbol of resilience and a turning point for youth participation in Philippine politics.

Her supporters believe that her academic background and determination will enable her to serve the community effectively.

News, photos or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, such could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

In election-related news, President Bongbong Marcos issued a statement directed towards all newly elected officials following the 2025 midterm elections. He was extending his hand, urging all officials to move forward together. The President also emphasized that he was reaching out to all regardless of party or coalition, as per Philstar. "Let us move forward together - with open minds and a common purpose," he added.

Meanwhile, Senator Bong Go, in a social media post, has expressed his profound gratitude for his successful re-election. The legislator thanked the Filipino people and attributes his victory to Divine Providence, acknowledging the trust placed in him. Sen. Go also pledged to bring government services and programs closer to those in need, emphasizing his dedication to helping the poor and those with limited access to resources. The senator then articulated his commitment to addressing critical issues facing the country, promising to work diligently for the welfare of Filipinos.

Source: KAMI.com.gh