Zamboanga netizens filled social media with messages of jubilation after Olympian weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz won the first ever gold medal for the Philippines in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
“Congrats anak ko. I miss you so much. Salamat sa lahat sumuporta sa anak ko kay HIdilyn Diaz Oly. Salamat sa mga prayers ninyo na hindi kayong nagsawa sumuporta kay hidy,” posted Emelita Diaz.
Hidilyn, Emelita’s daughter and Zamboanga native, bagged the first gold medal for the Philippines in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Monday night.
The Philippine Air Force posted their own congratulatory message to Diaz, a Philippine Air Force Airwoman Sergeant.
"Her masterful performance in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she also set an Olympic record in the 55 kg division, brought pride and glory to the AFP and to the country."
Zamboanga mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar posted a photo of Zamboanga city patron saint, the Nuestra Señora La Virgen del Pilar and a message to Diaz, who she refers to as "Hija de Zamboanga."
“Our homegrown Olympian Hidilyn Diaz makes history again as the Philippines first Olympic gold medalist at the weightlifting women’s 55 kg event at Tokyo Olympics 2020! Enhorabuena! We are proud of you, Hidilyn,” wrote Climaco.
“Enhorabuena to our constituent and now Olympic Gold Medalist Hidilyn Diaz for bringing pride and glory not just to the city of Zamboanga, but to the whole country, Saludo Hidilyn,” said District 2 Congressman Mannix Dalipe in a statement.
“Felt so good to listen to the national anthem being played during the awarding ceremonies,” posted Vice Mayor Rommel Agan.
Netizens posted their own photos and congratulatory messages for the Zamboangueña Olympian, each raring to tell a story or a chance encounter with the celebrated athlete.
Hidilyn- once a personal friend, neighbor or co-athlete in these parts, now hailed as one of the country’s most prominent figures in sports.