Philippines’ Hidilyn Diaz reacts after placing first in the women’s 55kg weightlifting competition during the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Tokyo International Forum in Tokyo on July 26, 2021. (Photo by Vincenzo PINTO / AFP)
MANILA, Philippines — The military congratulated weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz on Monday for bagging the gold medal at the women’s weightlifting competition at the Tokyo Olympics, stressing that her victory is a source of pride for the whole country.
According to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Diaz’s success at the world’s biggest stage is a testament to the Filipinos’ undying spirit in the face of odds.
Diaz, an active sergeant in the Philippine Air Force, won in the 55-kg category, besting other contestants with a tally of 97 kg in the snatch and 127 g in the clean and jerk.
“The Department of National Defense joins the nation in congratulating weightlifting champion and Philippine Air Force Sergeant Hidilyn Diaz on winning the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal today in Tokyo. Her success is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Filipino to rise above all odds,” Lorenzana said.
“Your One Defense Team is proud of you, Sergeant Diaz!” he added.
READ: Hidilyn Diaz wins weightlifting gold in Tokyo Olympics
The Philippine Air Force (PAF) also praised Diaz, the first Filipino to win a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics.
“The Philippine Air Force led by the Commanding General, PAF, Lt. Gen. Allen T. Paredes PAF extends its warmest congratulations to Sergeant Hidilyn F Diaz of the Philippine Air Force for bringing the country’s first-ever Olympic Gold Medal after winning the Women’s 55kg Category for Weightlifting and breaking an Olympic record for lifting a combined weight of 224kg at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 26, 2021,” PAF said.
“The men and women of the PAF join the country in celebrating this historic event. Sgt Diaz truly personifies Diwa, Galing at Malasakit of the Airmen and Airwomen. Congratulations and Mabuhay, Sgt Diaz!” it added.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff Gen. Cirilito Sobejana also conveyed her appreciation for Diaz, whom he said brought pride and glory to the whole AFP.
“Her masterful performance in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she also set an Olympic record in the 55kg division, brought pride and glory to the AFP and the country,” Sobejana said.
“We are now more than ever inspired by her exceptional hard work, perseverance, and dedication. We wish her the best moving forward. Soar high, airwoman!” he added.
Other government officials, including President Rodrigo Duterte and Vice President Leni Robredo, also congratulated Diaz.
Prior to the Tokyo Olympics, Diaz participated in the 53-kg category at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where she got the silver medal.
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