Hidilyn Diaz’s Gold medal feat brings pride and honor to millions of Filipinos
MANILA – Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque today extended Malacañang warm greetings to Hidilyn Diaz for her victory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
“Congratulations sa lahat ng kanyang trainers and coaches! Congratulations sa kanyang mga kababayan diyan sa Zamboanga City! And congratulations, Philippines, dahil talaga naming ang istorya po ng Hidilyn ay istorya ng mga ordinaryong mamamayan nagkaroon ng pangarap, nagpursige at nagtagumpay,” said Secretary Roque during his midday briefing.
Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Cirilito Sobejana extended his and the entire AFP’s congratulations to Philippine Air Force Sgt. Hidilyn Diaz who snatched the country’s first ever gold medal in weightlifting at the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo, Japan.
In a statement released a few minutes after Hidilyn’s feat, General Sobejana said Hidilyn’s “masterful performance in Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she also set an Olympic record in the 55kg division, brought price and glory to the AFP and the country.”
“We are now more than ever inspired by her exceptional hardwork, perseverance and dedication,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, CBCP President and Davao Archbishop Romulo G. Valles credited Sgt. Hidilyn Diaz for her historic performance at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.
The prelate said the Filipino made an Olympic record after lifting a combined weight of 224 kilograms.
“Her victory was captured through many lenses and in one of these photos was her holding the gold medal and wearing a Miraculous Medal of Our Lady on her chest. We admire her devotion to the Blessed Mother as she carried in her victory her great faith in God,” Archbishop Valles added.
He credited Hidilyn for being a true weightlifter “who draws her strength from her love for the country and her deep Catholic faith.” (Melo M. Acuña)
Hidilyn Diaz rendering a snappy salute during the awarding ceremonies last night at the XXXII Tokyo Olympics. (AFP Photo)