23-05-2025
Weightlifting in Palarong Pambansa an 'exciting, new chapter' for sport, says Hidilyn Diaz
Philippine weightlifting will enter an "exciting, new chapter" in its journey as the sport will return in Palarong Pambansa 2025 as a demonstration sport.
No other than the country's first Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz pushed for the sport's inclusion in the national youth games.
"People have been asking me—kamusta na ako? Lately, I've been on the move—carrying not just weights, but a mission," Diaz wrote in the caption of her social media post on Friday as she shared her preparations for the event.
"Weightlifting is now a demo sport in the Palarong Pambansa and this opens up an exciting new chapter for us. We finally have the chance to bring this sport closer to young Filipinos across the country—to introduce them to weightlifting, to plant a seed of hope and strength."
Diaz said she has been busy interacting with stakeholders and communities lately in preparation for the Palaro. She also thanked the Department of Education and the Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas for the support.
"With a clear purpose in our hearts, we're ready to show the youth that weightlifting isn't just about strength— it's about opportunity, discipline, and the courage to dream," she added.
The Palarong Pambansa in Ilocos Norte will open on Saturday.
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
