Criminology graduate attends graduation in wheelchair despite serious injury

ASM, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 10, 2026

Photo courtesy: WIS Student Council

Four years of hard work led John Alfie Magtibay to a graduation ceremony he was determined not to miss, even while recovering from a serious accident.

The Bachelor of Science in Criminology graduate attended his 2026 commencement ceremony in a wheelchair, with an external fixator attached to his injured leg following surgery.

His appearance drew applause from fellow graduates, faculty members and other attendees as he made his way toward the stage with assistance from Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) officers.

Four years of hard work worth celebrating

According to a post by the WIS Student Council, Magtibay had recently suffered an accident that required surgery.

Despite his ongoing recovery, he remained determined to attend the ceremony and celebrate completing his degree alongside his classmates.

“Naghirap ako ng 4 years, hindi p’wedeng hindi ako aattend ng graduation,” Magtibay said, as quoted by the student council.

His statement reflected the importance of the occasion after years of academic work and the challenges of recovering from his injuries.

Although his condition affected his mobility, he chose to take part in the ceremony rather than miss the milestone.

A graduation moment greeted with applause

Magtibay received assistance from ROTC officers as he approached the stage in his wheelchair.

His family was also present to support him during the ceremony.

According to the student council, the audience broke into applause as he made his way to receive his diploma.

Fellow graduates, school administrators, faculty members and parents joined in recognizing the occasion.

The moment highlighted Magtibay’s academic achievement and his determination to participate despite the difficulties brought by his injury.

A milestone shared with family and classmates

Completing a criminology degree required four years of academic work and personal commitment.

For Magtibay, graduation also came during an unexpected period of recovery.

With assistance from ROTC officers and encouragement from his family, he was able to join his fellow graduates and take part in the ceremony.

The WIS Student Council shared his experience as a story of perseverance, recognizing his determination to celebrate an achievement he had worked toward for years.

Despite the accident and the challenges that followed, Magtibay was present to mark the completion of his college education, surrounded by the people who supported him.