DavNor Governor Edwin Jubahib Confirms 2028 Vice Gubernatorial Bid, Daughter Clarice Eyes Governor Post
In a significant political development, Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib has officially announced his intention to run for vice governor in the upcoming 2028 elections. This move sets the stage for a potential father-daughter leadership team, with incumbent Vice Governor Clarice Jubahib expected to seek the province's top executive position.
Announcement Made During Infrastructure Project Launch
Governor Jubahib revealed his political plans during an interview with Davao media on April 17, 2026. The disclosure came on the sidelines of the launch ceremony for the Davao–Samal submarine interconnection project at Bridgeport in the Island Garden City of Samal. This critical infrastructure initiative, implemented by Aboitiz Power Corporation in partnership with Davao Light and Power Company, aims to enhance power reliability between the mainland and the island.
When questioned about his political future, Jubahib responded in Filipino, "Ah, pinakadali sa akoa, Vice-Gov–Vice-Gov (That's the easiest for me, vice-gov, vice-gov)," indicating that seeking the vice gubernatorial position would be the most straightforward path after completing his current term.
Term Limits and Family Political Strategy
The 1987 Philippine Constitution imposes a three-consecutive-term limit for local chief executives, including governors. Jubahib, first elected governor in 2019 and subsequently re-elected, will reach this constitutional limit by 2028, necessitating his shift to a different position.
Governor Jubahib confirmed that his daughter, incumbent Vice Governor Clarice Jubahib, is being positioned to run for governor. "Ah, yes. Mao na'y mahitabo karon (Yes, that's what would happen now)," he stated when asked to verify the plan.
Political Realizations and Openness to Circumstances
Reflecting on the fluid nature of political alliances in local governance, Jubahib acknowledged that alignments frequently shift based on interests. "Ako, naghinay-hinay nako. Ang akoang realization nako ani, nga mura'g tinuod gyud ni ilang giingon sa politika, walay stable allies. Depende sa interest sa usa ka politiko. So, dawaton na lang, dawaton na lang nga sila imohang kaatbang (I'm starting to slow down. My realization now is that what they say about politics is really true—there are no stable allies. It all depends on a politician's interests. So I just accept it, accept that they are now your opponents)," he explained.
While emphasizing that the father-daughter tandem represents his primary political strategy, Jubahib maintained flexibility regarding how events might unfold. "Mao ni ang akoang main plan. God's will nga mao ni ang mahitabo… depende. Pero sa plano, number one ni nga atong i-consider (This is my main plan, if God's will, this will happen… it all depends. But as for my plan, this is what I mostly consider)."
Strong Electoral Performance in 2025 Midterms
The political foundation of the Jubahib family in Davao del Norte was reinforced by their impressive showing in the 2025 midterm elections, where both secured decisive victories in their respective races.
Governor Edwin Jubahib's 2025 Election Results:
- Total votes: 322,974
- Percentage of votes: 45.02%
- Defeated opponent Aldu Dujali who received 233,582 votes (32.56%)
Vice Governor Clarice Jubahib's 2025 Election Results:
- Total votes: 226,484
- Percentage of votes: 31.57%
- Prevailed over Tete So (168,325 votes, 23.46%) and Pantaleon Alvarez (137,080 votes, 19.11%)
Established Political Presence and Governance Record
Governor Jubahib has maintained a central position in Davao del Norte politics for several years. Before assuming the governorship, he served as vice governor, a role that enabled him to cultivate alliances across municipalities and component cities including Tagum City, Panabo City, and the Island Garden City of Samal.
His administration has been associated with comprehensive programs focusing on:
- Infrastructure development
- Social services enhancement
- Disaster response preparedness
- Support for energy and connectivity projects like the Davao–Samal interconnection initiative
This political announcement marks a strategic shift in the Jubahib family's political trajectory, potentially creating a unique father-daughter leadership dynamic in Davao del Norte's governance structure as the 2028 elections approach.
