CEBU CITY – The time that Michael Alcoseba had been waiting for came on Tuesday, May 28.

ALCOSEBA'S mother holds his photo during his graduation.
But the student known for his hard work and perserverance was no longer around after he succumbed to pneumonia more than two weeks before his graduation.
Instead, it was his sister and mother who walked up the stage to receive his medal as a cum laude graduate in emotionally-charged graduation ceremony at the Hoops Dome in Lapu-Lapu City.
Alcoseba’s mother was clutching his picture frame when she went up the stage as other graduates and teachers of the Lapu-Lapu City College tried to hold back tears.
Alcoseba was part of Class 2024 Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management graduates.
JR, Alcoseba’s older brother, said Michael was known for his competitive and hard working attitude.
Michael was a working student and was also member of the the Lapu-Lapu City Performing Group.
Michael’s family suspected that his health deteriorated due to stress and over fatigue.
JR said they did not expect that Michael would graduate as cum laude.
Lapu-Lapu Mayor Junard “Ahong” Chan and his wife Lapu-Lapu Rep. Cindi Chan attended the graduation ceremony and admitted they too felt emotional when Michael’s mother went up the stage.
“I had goosebumps while watching Michael’s mother and sister going up the stage clutching his picture that was soaked in tears,” the mayor said.
What Michael did to finish his studies was something to be proud of, the mayor added.
“We hope you’re celebrating your big achievement in heaven right now Kil. We will continue praying for your eternal repose,” said the mayor.