By
Dominic I. Sanchez
ZAMBOANGA
CITY – Hidilyn Diaz received a hero’s welcome Friday (August
12) in her hometown, and was greeted by thousands of residents and new fans in
this city.
Diaz
arrived at around 2 in the afternoon and was received by local officials headed
by Mayor Beng Climaco-Salazar. Upon arriving at the Zamboanga airport, a
motorcade brought her to the City Hall. Residents caught a glimpse of the 25-year-old
Olympic silver medalist who took pictures and selfies with her.
Mayor
Climaco-Salazar expressed her pride with the win of Diaz, who, in 20 years
became the first Filipino to take home a medal in the Olympics.
The
City Hall siren was blasted, and confetti was showered to honor Diaz, a native
of barangay Mampang.
During
a short program, Diaz shared her struggles as an athlete, from her humble
beginnings when she begun weightlifting.
Diaz
was accompanied by fellow Zamboangueño Olympian Nestor Colonia and coach Alfonsito Aldanete.
Diaz won the silver
on August 8 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, which coincided with her mother’s
birthday. She is set to receive at least Php7-million from the government, as
well as scholarships and other rewards.