Prizes continue to pour in from politicians and the private sector for the country’s first-ever Olympic champion Hidilyn Diaz, but this is not the first time the athlete has received so many incentives.
In 2016, Diaz ended the Philippines’ 20 -year wait for an Olympic medal after taking home silver in weightlifting at the 2016 Rio Games.
Diaz received more than P7 million in prizes for his success in addition to a new house.
In her 2016 interview with Boy Abunda on “Tonight With Boy Abunda,” Diaz recounted how she would manage the rewards she received.
According to the athlete from Zamboanga City, she believes that material things cannot define her personality.
“Parati kong sinasabi sa sarili ko, itong materyal na bagay ‘di magla-last. Si God nagla-last. Sinasabi ko na kailangan ko maging humble. Itong money hindi ito nagde-describe sa sarili ko,” Diaz then promised.
“Si God ang naging best friend ko nung ups and downs,” she added.
How did Hidilyn Diaz handle prizes she received at 2016 Rio Olympics?
She said that she does not believe much in luck because, for her, the good combination is perseverance and trust in God.
“Mas naniniwala ako na kapag ginawa ‘yung best, si God ang gagawa ng rest. Kailangan mo rin kasing gawin ‘yung part mo bago ibibigay sa ‘yo ‘yung para sa ‘yo,” said Diaz.
Diaz’s heart is close to her family and children, so every time she comes home from big competitions, they receive something from her.
Diaz also built a weightlifting gym in Zamboanga City for use by those who dream of becoming weightlifters like her.
With his first gold medal in the Philippines, Diaz will receive more than P30 million in prizes in addition to a few houses and land, unlimited flights for the rest of his life from two airlines, free fuel, and a new vehicle.
On Monday, Diaz ended the Philippines’ 97-year wait to reach the top of the Olympic podium by setting a new record in women’s 55kg in Tokyo, Japan.