Mayor Joel Ruma assassination and daughter’s candidacy took center stage in Rizal, Cagayan as the late mayor was laid to rest at noon today, with his eldest daughter stepping in to continue his campaign.
Nearly a thousand residents of Rizal gathered to attend the funeral Mass, filling the church to capacity in tribute to the beloved local leader.
Residents remembered Mayor Ruma as a kind and compassionate leader who had extended help to countless constituents.
The community accompanied his remains to the Rizal public cemetery, showing a united front in grief and respect.
Ruma was shot and killed during a campaign rally in Barangay Iluru Sur on the night of April 23, an incident that has shaken the local political landscape.
Police Regional Office 2 Director PBGEN Antonio Marallag Jr. confirmed that Ruma was killed by a sniper, based on bullet trajectory analysis and witness testimonies.
Authorities continue to conduct an in-depth investigation into what they consider an election-related incident.
In response to the tragedy, Ruma’s eldest daughter, 21-year-old Jamila Ruma, has officially filed her certificate of candidacy with the Rizal Commission on Elections to take her father’s place.
Jamila, now the youngest mayoral candidate in the province, is running alongside her mother, incumbent Vice Mayor Atty. Brenda Ruma, who is seeking reelection.