A big loss to Filipinos.
That's how Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo described the passing of Philippine sports icon and track and Asian field star Lydia de Vega.
"Lydia 'Diay' de Vega-Mercado’s demise is a big loss to us. Dubbed 'the fastest woman in Asia,' she put Philippine sports on the world map and brought much honor to our country. She will long be remembered by the nation," Arroyo, a former president. said Thursday morning, Aug. 11 in a short statement.
"May her achievements motivate other Filipino athletes to aspire for excellence in their chosen sport. My sincere condolences to her husband, Paul, and their children," she added.
De Vega, 57, died due to breast cancer on Wedneday night, Aug. 10.