21-year-old Jamila Ruma becomes youngest mayor after winning election

Jamila Ruma, the eldest daughter of slain Mayor Joel Ruma, has become the youngest mayor in the Philippines after winning the mayoral race in Rizal, Cagayan.

At just 21 years old, Ruma was proclaimed winner by the Rizal Board of Canvassers on Tuesday with 5,134 votes, or 48.27% of the total electoral results, securing victory over two older opponents, Ralph Mamauag and Florence Littaua.

Ruma's victory comes after she substituted her father in the midterm elections following his assassination by a sniper during a campaign event last April 23.

In her statement posted on Facebook, Ruma expressed gratitude to supporters and promised to continue her father's legacy, vowing not to neglect their town of Rizal.

Alongside Ruma as vice mayor is her mother, Brenda Ruma, who successfully won reelection with 6,448 votes.

Jamila, a Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies graduate from De La Salle University (DLSU) Manila and consistent dean's lister, was also awarded Best Thesis Presenter and received the 'Best Thesis' honor in her class.

She said it is a 'big challenge' for her to continue what her father has started, promising her townmates that she would provide genuine service as her father did.