Days before his graduation, a cum laude student passed away
MICHAEL “KIKIL” ALCOSEBA – A cum laude student who completed his Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management degree died days before his graduation due to pneumonia.
Alcoseba, aged 23, was scheduled to walk across the stage to receive his cum laude honor from Lapu Lapu City College. However, tragedy struck. Instead, his mother and grandmother brought his framed photo to the graduation ceremony and accepted the award on his behalf. Kikil passed away from pneumonia just days before the graduation, having completed his Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management.
The emotional moment at the graduation ceremony was captured by Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ahong Chan, who noted the heartfelt response of the attendees. Many were moved to tears and gave a standing ovation as Kikil’s family accepted the award in his memory. Mayor Chan expressed his belief that Kikil’s departure was too soon, a sentiment shared by many.
Kikil’s sister, Juliet Hiyas, expressed a mix of sadness and pride, saying that attending the graduation without her brother was very hard. Their mother even joined the procession carrying Kikil’s picture, symbolizing his presence in spirit.
Kikil, a member of the Lapu-Lapu City Performing Arts as a dancer, showed resilience as a working student who supported himself throughout his academic journey.
This is not the first time that such an incident has happened. To recall, in April 2023, a criminology student tragically passed away two days before his graduation due to leptospirosis. Deniel Dave Comamao, who had just completed his Bachelor of Science in Criminology, was unable to attend the recent graduation ceremony at UM Tagum College.
Despite the grief of his family, they acknowledged his hard work and achievements. Deniel’s sudden departure left his loved ones devastated, but his perseverance and resilience were honored during the ceremony. UM Tagum College paid tribute to Deniel’s memory and recognized his accomplishments, offering deep sympathy to his bereaved family.