Around 5,000 graduating students from the two city-run universities in Manila received a special graduation gift from Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan and Vice Mayor John Marvin "Yul Servo" Nieto.
The student-recipients were graduates from two of the city's higher education institutions, the Universidad de Manila (UdM) and the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM).
Each graduating student was gifted with P2,000 as a token of appreciation and encouragement as they embark on their professional journeys.
A total of 1,817 graduates from UdM and 3,772 from PLM were the beneficiaries of the gift distribution.
During the ceremonial graduation cash gift distribution for the UdM graduates, the mayor was joined by UdM President Dr. Felma Carlos-Tria.
In her address, Mayor Lacuna-Pangan emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication as the graduates move forward into the world.
She urged them to excel in their chosen fields and make their parents proud.
The mayor's words were filled with encouragement and optimism as she wished the graduates success in all their future endeavors.
“Congratulations to all the graduates. May your journey in life be filled with success and may you always remember the values and lessons you have learned... Make your parents proud by excelling in whatever career path you choose,” the mayor said.
In addition to the graduation ceremony, the mayor also invited the public to join the Simbang Gabi (Dawn Mass) at Kartilya ng Katipunan, in collaboration with the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno and the San Vicente De Paul Parish, offering an opportunity for the people of Manila to come together in faith and celebrate the Christmas season.