Student graduates ‘with (Nora) Aunor’ at his commencement rites

Although this mechanical engineering student did not graduate with Latin honors, he still managed to finish college "with Aunor."

A graduate from Camarines Sur named Nathaniel Kris Pontillas brought a tarpaulin of the Filipino veteran actress Nora Aunor during his graduation ceremony on July 4. The photos of him holding the tarpaulin on stage while the commencement rite took place have since gone viral on social media.

Many netizens also commented on the post, with some thanking Pontilla for giving them an idea about their graduation.

One commenter shared, “Proud M.E Graduate Here. Last year may nagdala ng sariling medals para isuot para sa sarili and this year nagdala ng picture ni Nora Aunor para masabing with AUNORS. Sobrang lalakas talaga ng TRIP, Nice 1 M.E Graduates.”

In his interview with 103.1 Brigada News FM - Naga City, Pontillas shared that it has been his tradition to come up with new gimmicks that he will show during recognition or graduation ceremony.  

“Marami saakin nag e-expect na may gagawin akong pakulo sa graduation. Weeks before ng graduation ay ang dami na nag sasabi na aabangan daw nila yung gagawin ko sa graduation hahaha,” he said. “At ang naisip ko na gagawin ko ngayon ay simple lang, 'Graduate with Aunor.'”

“Hindi man ako nag Cum Laude, at least Graduate ako with Aunor,” he added.  

Nathaniel also shared that his initial plan was to create a standee of the veteran actress, but he realized that his surprise would be spoiled since it was big and can be clearly seen. With this, he decided to just print the picture of the actress on a tarpaulin and hide it until he gets up on stage.  

“Ginawa ko yun para magpasaya,” he said.