The Graduation

The Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) was abuzz with energy on the morning of September 10th, 2019. Graduates filled the grand hall, their faces beaming with pride as they waited for the graduation ceremony to begin. The air was thick with excitement, mingled with the soft hum of conversation and the rustling of graduation robes.

Matthew adjusted his cap, standing with Saimon, Samantha, and Leo in the designated section for engineering graduates. The weight of the past year's accomplishments settled over him, mixed with the anticipation of officially closing this chapter of their lives.

"PICC," Leo said, looking around the elegant hall. "Feels a little surreal, doesn't it? All those sleepless nights, and now here we are."

"Surreal is one word for it," Samantha replied with a small smile. "It's like the end of an era."

Saimon chuckled, tugging at his gown. "And the start of a new one. I can't wait for this ceremony to be over so we can officially call ourselves engineers."

"Well, we are engineers, but there's still the board exam to pass," Matthew said with a smirk, adjusting his gown. "Don't get too comfortable yet, Saimon."

"Ah, don't ruin the moment, Matt," Saimon replied, nudging him playfully. "Let me enjoy this small victory before reality sets in."

"Reality's already here," Samantha chimed in. "But I'll give you this—today, we deserve to celebrate."

The hall quieted as the ceremony began, the university president stepping onto the stage to deliver his opening remarks. Matthew half-listened as the speech flowed from the challenges they'd faced as students to the opportunities that lay ahead. The grand hall of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) was alive with the energy of hundreds of graduates, all seated in neat rows, their robes and caps creating a sea of vibrant colors under the bright lights.

Samantha leaned over and whispered, "Think they're going to mention your EV project? It's been the talk of the campus for months."

Matthew shrugged, but his heart raced slightly. "I'm not counting on it. Let's just get through this."

The speeches continued, with the dean of the College of Engineering eventually taking the stage. His voice was steady and full of pride as he recounted the college's achievements over the past year. Then, his tone shifted.

"This year, we had the privilege of witnessing some truly exceptional work from our students. One project, in particular, not only captured our attention but also gained national recognition and even international interest. I'm speaking of the electric vehicle prototype developed by one of our most dedicated graduates."

Matthew froze in his seat as the dean continued. He exchanged glances with Samantha, Saimon, and Leo, all of whom grinned knowingly.

"This project represents the spirit of innovation and excellence that our university fosters. And today, we would like to recognize the student behind this remarkable achievement. Mr. Matthew Borja, please join us on stage."

The hall erupted in applause. Matthew hesitated for a moment, his mind racing, before standing and making his way to the stage. His teammates clapped loudly, cheering him on as he climbed the steps, and soon other graduates clapped their hands.

The dean handed him a plaque, his smile warm. "Congratulations, Mr. Borja. Your work has made us all proud, and it's a testament to the future of engineering and innovation."

"Thank you, sir," Matthew said, his voice steady despite the surge of emotions. The dean gestured toward the microphone, and Matthew hesitated before stepping forward.

He cleared his throat, the applause fading into expectant silence. "Good morning, everyone. I'm incredibly honored to be standing here today. This project wouldn't have been possible without the guidance of my professors and the support of my team, who are just as deserving of this recognition."

He paused, scanning the crowd. "This achievement isn't just about a vehicle. It's about proving that with hard work, determination, and the right people around you, anything is possible. I hope this inspires all of us to keep pushing boundaries and striving for excellence."

The applause that followed was deafening. Matthew stepped back, nodding his thanks, and made his way back to his seat. Samantha nudged him as he sat down. 

"Nice speech, Mr. Star of the Show."

Saimon chuckled. "I feel like we should be asking for autographs now."

Matthew shook his head, laughing softly. "Let's just focus on graduating first."

The ceremony continued, degrees were conferred, and caps were tossed into the air in celebration. Afterward, the graduates spilled out into the sprawling gardens of the PICC, where they reunited with their families and friends.

Matthew stood with Samantha, Saimon, and Leo, a sense of quiet satisfaction settling over him. They had come so far together, and now they were standing on the threshold of something entirely new.

"So, what's next?" Samantha asked, adjusting her cap.

Saimon grinned. "Board exams first, then who knows? But for now, let's just enjoy the fact that we're officially graduates."

Leo nodded. "Yeah. This is a win we should soak in. The future can wait a day."

"Where's your family, Matthew?" Saimon asked. 

"Uhm… about that," Matthew began hesitantly, scratching the back of his neck. He glanced around the bustling gardens, filled with families hugging graduates and taking photos. "They're not here. My mom—"

Before he could finish, a familiar voice interrupted him from behind.

"Matthew!"

He turned sharply, his eyes widening in disbelief as his mother, Teresa, emerged from the crowd, holding a small bouquet of flowers. She was dressed simply but elegantly, her smile both nervous and proud.

"Ma?" Matthew said, his voice cracking slightly. "What are you doing here? I thought…"

Teresa walked closer, her eyes glistening with tears. "I couldn't let you graduate without being here, son. I know only one family member was allowed, but I made it work."

Matthew's heart swelled, his earlier composure completely gone. "I didn't think you'd come. I thought you'd… well…"

Teresa gently placed the bouquet in his hands, shaking her head. "I know I've made mistakes, Matthew. I know things haven't always been easy between us, especially with your father and Marco. But I couldn't miss this. Not today."

Samantha, Saimon, and Leo exchanged quiet glances, stepping back slightly to give Matthew and his mother some space.

Matthew blinked back the emotion threatening to overwhelm him. "Thank you, Ma. It means a lot that you're here."

Teresa smiled, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You've made me so proud, son, I watched you on that stage, and I couldn't stop thinking about how far you've come. Whatever happens next, remember that I'll always be rooting for you."

He nodded, swallowing the lump in his throat. "I will, Ma. I promise."

"Now," Teresa said, her voice softening, "let's take a photo. I want to remember this day forever."

Saimon quickly stepped forward, holding up his phone. "I've got you covered, Auntie. Matthew, stand with your mom."

Matthew chuckled, moving closer to Teresa as Saimon snapped a few pictures.

"You've got a great support system, Matt," Samantha said, smiling at the moment. "Even when you don't expect it."

"Yeah," Matthew said, his voice steadier now. "I guess I do."

As the group prepared to leave, Teresa turned to Matthew's friends. "Thank you for supporting him through everything. He's lucky to have all of you."

"And we're lucky to have him," Leo replied with a grin.