The Story Behind the BukSU Graduation Proposal Video

Just minutes after receiving her diploma at Bukidnon State University, 25-year-old Erica M. Estoque, who completed her Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino degree, found herself stunned once more—this time, by a question asked on bended knee.

In a video now making the rounds on social media, Erica’s long-time boyfriend, Eric Jade C. Porras, 27, from Kalilangan, Bukidnon, dropped to one knee in front of the newly minted graduate, surrounded by her family and schoolmates, and asked her the question she least expected from Eric: “Will you marry me?”

Erica and Eric have been a couple for almost ten years. Erica shared that she and Eric had already built a life together, raising their 7-year-old and 3-year-old children even without a wedding ring—until now.

“I never expected the proposal,” Erica said. “Eric has always had a nonchalant attitude, so proposing in front of a crowd was the last thing I thought he would do. We already have children, so I assumed he didn’t feel the need for a formal proposal anymore. That’s why it truly caught me off guard.”

The Dream Behind the Diploma

For Erica, the journey to graduation was anything but easy. Balancing the demands of motherhood and college meant living apart from her children. While she studied in Malaybalay City, her children stayed with her parents in Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur.

There were times when the pressure became overwhelming.

“I was already missing a lot of activities and had several class requirements piling up. That’s when I seriously thought of stopping,” she recalled.

But she pushed through, not just for herself, but for the brighter future she dreams of for her family.

Eric, who works on their farm in Kalilangan, was a steady support throughout her college journey. He helped care for the children, encouraged her during tough semesters, and believed in her dream of becoming a licensed teacher. For him, graduation was not only Erica’s success—it was their family’s triumph.

A Proposal with Parents’ Blessings

The spontaneous proposal wasn’t just a surprise to Erica. It also brought joy to both their families. Erica and Eric’s parents expressed their happiness that the couple, after years of partnership, are now setting their sights on marriage.

Still, Erica is in no rush to walk down the aisle.

“We’ll take our time,” she said. “My priority now is to prepare for the Licensure Examination for Teachers. I want to pass the board exam and secure a good life for our kids. The right time will come for our wedding.”

With a diploma in one hand and an engagement ring in the other, Erica steps forward with renewed hope, driven by love, commitment, and the dream of a better life for her family. (BukSU Information Unit)