(UPDATED/CORRECTED) - Michael “Kikil” Alcoseba, 23, was supposed to walk up the stage and accept his award after graduating cum laude at Lapu Lapu City College on Tuesday.

Instead, it was his mother and sister who brought his framed photo to the graduation rites and accepted his award on his behalf.

Cong. Cindi Chan

Kikil died of pneumonia last May 11, days before the commencement exercises. He finished Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ahong Chan took a video of the graduation, saying almost all those present were in tears and gave a standing ovation as Kikil’s mom and sister accepted the award.

“Nanhimbawot ang akong balhibo. Sayo intawon siya gikuha sa Ginoo (I had goosebumps. He was taken by the Lord too early),” wrote Chan.

Cong. Cindi Chan

In a separate post, Alcoseba’s sister, Juliet Hiyas, said that they are “the saddest but the proudest” and that it was difficult for them to attend the graduation as Kikil’s batchmates finished without their brother.

“Sakit kaayo. Niapil si mama sa processional nga picture nimo iyang dala (It was very painful. Our mother joined the processional with your picture),” said Hiyas.

Cong. Cindi Chan 

A member of the Lapu-Lapu City Performing Arts as a dancer, Alcoseba was a working student who supported himself while in school.

“Proud kaayo mi sa among manghud, (We are so proud of our little brother),” Hiyas said. -  Annie Perez 

(Editor’s Note: An earlier version of this story said it was Alcoseba’s grandmother and not his sister who attended his graduation ceremony. We regret the error.)