Good governance should reach every corner of the province, especially its most vulnerable sectors. This belief drives the youngest vice governor in the country to champion inclusive legislation that benefits women, youth, senior citizens, indigenous peoples, and the LGBTQIA+ community in Davao del Norte.
“My journey in public service was deeply inspired by my father, Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib,” Clarice T. Jubahib told SunStar Davao.
“Watching him serve our people with dedication and integrity showed me the real impact public service can have on communities. He's been my greatest role model, and his example motivated me to seek the vice governor position so I could continue that legacy of service to our province.”
Elected in 2025 at just 24 years old, Jubahib holds the distinction of being the youngest vice governor in the country. For her, the experience of being chosen over her more veteran rivals was both humbling and inspiring.
“The trust that our people placed in me, despite my age, is something I don't take lightly. It shows that people in Davao del Norte and Filipinos in general are ready to embrace young leadership and fresh perspectives.”
As the presiding officer of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Jubahib believes that effective leadership starts with listening.
“I've learned that listening is more important than speaking,” she said. “As a young leader, people sometimes question your experience, so I make it a point to listen deeply to our constituents and learn from seasoned public servants.”
She also shared the importance of authenticity and humility.
“I've also discovered that authenticity resonates more than trying to fit a certain mold. Most importantly, I've learned that collaboration and humility go hand in hand. You can't serve effectively if you think you have all the answers.”
For Jubahib, her power comes from the people who entrusted her with their vote.
“My power emanates from the people who put their trust in me, so that's my guiding principle in everything I do,” she said. “My common denominator is always asking: How can this help our people? I believe in using my position not to accumulate power, but to empower others.”
Her advocacy focuses on five key sectors: women, youth, senior citizens, indigenous peoples, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
“Whether it's ordinances that create opportunities for our youth, protect the rights and welfare of our elderly, preserve indigenous culture and ancestral domains, or promote inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community, I believe meaningful legislation can transform lives,” she said.
“Whether it's ordinances that create opportunities for our women and youth, protect the rights and welfare of our elderly, preserve indigenous culture and ancestral domains, or promote inclusivity for the LGBTQIA+ community, I believe meaningful legislation can transform lives.”
Clarice T. Jubahib
Jubahib envisions legislation that truly addresses the needs of ordinary residents.
“Whether it's improving access to healthcare, education, or livelihood opportunities, I'm driven by the idea that good governance should be felt in every barangay,” she said.
Jubahin also affirms her commitment to crafting ordinances that are not merely symbolic or appealing in writing, but that truly bring tangible improvements to the everyday lives of farmers, students, workers, and families in Davao del Norte.
Despite her young age and high position, Jubahib said she remains grounded by the lessons her family has instilled in her.
“My father always reminds me to be humble and to always look after people, regardless of their status. That's what keeps me centered,” she said. “He taught me that position and power are temporary, but how you treat people lasts forever.”
“He taught me that position and power are temporary, but how you treat people lasts forever.”
Clarice T. Jubahib
She plans to stay close to the grassroots through regular barangay visits.
“After setting up my office, I will regularly visit our barangays and talk directly with our constituents because I am sure that their stories and struggles remind me why I'm here,” she said.
“When you see the real challenges people face daily, it's impossible to let power go to your head. My family, my faith, and most importantly, the people I serve keep me grounded and focused on what truly matters.”
When asked about her message for young Filipinos who want to lead someday, Jubahib shared her thoughts.
“Don't wait for the 'perfect time' or think you need decades of experience before you can make a difference. Start serving in whatever capacity you can in your school, your community, your organization. Leadership isn't about age; it's about heart and commitment to serve others,” she said.
“Don't wait for the 'perfect time' or think you need decades of experience before you can make a difference. Start serving in whatever capacity you can in your school, your community, your organization. Leadership isn't about age; it's about heart and commitment to serve others.”
Clarice T. Jubahib
She also advised the young ones to study hard, listen more, speak less, and never lose sight of why they want to lead in the first place.
“Most importantly, remember that true leadership is about empowering others, not yourself. The Philippines needs fresh perspectives and passionate young leaders who aren't afraid to challenge the status quo and fight for what's right.”
Vice Governor Clarice T. Jubahib is proving that leadership rooted in service and inclusivity can bring meaningful change, no matter the age. BP