Hon. Geraldine “Jade” Buray Ecleo is a distinguished public servant whose life and career reflect a strong commitment to leadership, community service, and public governance. Born on October 5, 1970, at the Provincial Hospital in Surigao, she was named by her father, Ruben Edera Ecleo Sr., after the gemstone jade, symbolizing strength, resilience, and enduring value.

Vice Governor Ecleo spent her formative years pursuing quality education. She completed her elementary education at San Carlos School for Girls in Cebu City and later continued her studies in Metro Manila. She obtained a Bachelor of Science in Tourism from La Consolacion College, Manila, and further strengthened her academic foundation by earning a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Jose Rizal University in Mandaluyong City.

Prior to entering public service, she gained valuable international experience as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) in New York City for four years, where she developed professional independence and broadened her global perspective. Upon returning to the Philippines, she engaged in entrepreneurial and corporate endeavors, including involvement in Agua Vida Mineral Water and SunLife Insurance, before dedicating herself fully to public service.

Her experience in governance began when she served as Chief of Staff in the Congressional Office of her mother for nearly a decade, where she gained extensive exposure to legislative processes, public administration, and constituency services. This experience prepared her for higher leadership responsibilities in government.

In 2007, Hon. Ecleo was appointed Governor of the Province of Dinagat Islands and subsequently became the first elected Governor of the province, marking a significant milestone in the province’s political history. She later continued her service to the people of Dinagat Islands as Vice Governor in 2010, and was again elected to the same position in 2025, reaffirming the trust and confidence of her constituents.

Beyond her public service career, Vice Governor Ecleo has also demonstrated excellence in the field of arts and culture. She traveled internationally as a member of the Bayanihan Dance Company, promoting Filipino heritage through cultural performances. She also established herself as a performer, holding five major concerts in prominent theaters in Manila and collaborating with well-known artists and personalities. For more than two decades, she was associated with ABS-CBN as an artist. Her contributions to the arts and her notable public presence earned her recognition as Manila’s Best Dressed for four consecutive years, and she was also honored by a Women Empowerment organization for her charitable initiatives.

In addition to her roles in government, Hon. Ecleo currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association (PBMA), a large non-sectarian organization engaged in humanitarian and community development initiatives.

Despite her extensive responsibilities in public service and organizational leadership, Vice Governor Ecleo remains devoted to her family. She is a proud single mother of three accomplished children: Natasha, an Honors Graduate of De La Salle University- Manila; Aga, who graduated Magna Cum Laude from Ateneo de Manila University; and Ania, who is currently pursuing studies in music.

Throughout her years in public service, Hon. Geraldine “Jade” Buray Ecleo has remained guided by her personal principle:
“Public service is not only a job but a commitment from my soul to God.’