It’s been months since I booked that flight. May 18, 2025—that date was marked on my calendar for a long time. I had counted the days, not because I was going on vacation, but because I was coming home to witness a milestone in my daughter’s life.
My daughter, Khezia, was graduating from college. Not just any college—Southwestern University, College of Medical Technology. The same school where I earned my degree 31 years ago.
I was flying in from Tucson, Arizona. The journey was no joke. From Tucson to LAX, then connecting through Manila, and finally to Cebu. All in all, about 16 hours of travel, not including the airport waiting times. But I didn’t mind. I would travel double that distance just to see her graduate.
Arrival in Cebu: A Warm Midnight Welcome
I arrived in Cebu just past midnight. My body was tired, my eyes half-asleep, but my heart was wide awake. As soon as I stepped out of the airport, I scanned the crowd—and there she was.
Khezia, standing with that familiar smile that always lights up my world. Her eyes were teary, and so were mine. We hugged tightly. No words, just that silent kind of love that only parents and children can understand. We haven’t seen each other for so long, and being back together—especially for something so meaningful—was overwhelming.
I was starving after the long trip, so we sat down at the airport for a bowl of ramen. It wasn’t fancy, but it was warm, tasty, and just what I needed. As we ate, we talked and laughed like old times. No rush. Just catching up. That moment was simple, but it felt like healing.
Days Before the Graduation: Bonding, Food, and Memories
We had three days to enjoy before her graduation. Those days were gold to me. We went to the mall, did a bit of shopping, and tried all the Filipino food I had missed—lechon, barbecue, manok bisaya, silog breakfasts, and halo-halo for dessert. She kept saying, “Dad, you have to try this!” and I gladly did.
But it wasn’t really about the food or the shopping—it was about being with her again. Walking beside her. Hearing her stories. Laughing about little things. These were the moments I missed the most while working abroad.
During those days, I also had a quick side trip. I went to Moalboal, then headed to Dumanjug to attend a classmate’s wedding. It turned out to be a mini reunion. Most of my college batchmates were there—and most of them are now doctors. I looked around and thought, “Ako na lang yata ang med tech!”
But I wasn’t insecure. I was proud. Being a medical technologist is honorable work. We may be behind the microscope and not in the spotlight, but we are part of every diagnosis, every patient’s story. And that’s something I will always carry with pride.
May 22 – The Big Day
And then came the day we were all waiting for—May 22, 2025—graduation day.
The ceremony was held at Waterfront Hotel in Lahug, Cebu City. A beautiful venue, full of proud families and graduates. I was not alone that day. I was joined by my dad, who also came to celebrate his granddaughter’s achievement. It was a quiet but special moment—three generations together.
Khezia didn’t wear a toga. She wore a Filipiniana dress, matched with a sablay draped across her shoulder. She looked beautiful and composed. Seeing her like that, standing tall, ready to receive her diploma, made my heart full.
As she walked across the stage, I remembered something: I graduated from the same school, with the same course—31 years ago. It felt like I was watching a part of myself walk forward. I thought to myself, What a blessing this is—to see your child follow your path, and even go further.
We took photos after. I held her close. And I just kept saying how proud I was. Because I really was.
Two Graduations, One Heart
But the day wasn’t just about one child. My son, Luke, was also graduating from senior high school back in Arizona—on the same day. May 22.
It broke my heart a bit that I couldn’t be there for both. I wanted to divide myself in two, but I couldn’t. So, we made it work. Their mom stayed with Luke in Arizona while I flew home for Khezia.
And here, I want to give kudos to my wife—for being there for our son, for standing beside him on his own milestone. These moments take teamwork, even from a distance. And I’m grateful that she gave her full presence for Luke, just as I gave mine to Khezia.
We sent messages. We watched videos. We celebrated both of them together, even across continents.
Luke will soon be attending the University of Arizona to pursue nursing. Another one entering the world of healthcare. I may not have been there physically, but I’m proud of him just the same.
That day, my heart was full and torn at the same time—but mostly full. Two of my children, both reaching milestones, both stepping into a new chapter. What more could a father ask for?
Looking Back, Moving Forward
This trip reminded me of so many things.
That time really flies. That we should always make time for the people who matter. That presence is more powerful than any gift.
Being with my daughter and my dad on this day reminded me how important family is. My father was there for me when I graduated. Now, he stood with me as I watched my daughter do the same. That’s not just a memory—it’s a legacy.
To my daughter Khezia—thank you. You didn’t just make me proud. You reminded me of what really matters. I saw your hard work, your quiet strength, your heart.
To my son Luke—we may not have shared the same space that day, but my heart was with you. You did it. And you’re just getting started.
To their mom—thank you for being their constant, for being present, and for always supporting their journey. We both did our part, and we both made this happen for them.
To other parents reading this—show up. Be there for your kids when it matters most. Time doesn’t wait. Moments pass quickly. But love? That lasts.
Congratulations, my children. You are the greatest blessing I’ve ever received. I may have traveled far to get here, but every step was worth it just to witness your success.
