BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental yesterday passed a resolution making lone Filipino Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz an “adopted daughter” of the province during its special session yesterday.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson also said that the SP also commended Diaz for winning the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella said Diaz is arriving and attending today a tribute by the provincial government of Negros Occidental, in recognition of her outstanding performance in the Tokyo Olympics, where the Philippines got a gold medal after 97 years.
Puentevella said that Diaz, who will be accompanied by her coach, Julius Naranjo, will also have short visit on Sept. 12 to Silay City, where she is scheduled to meet with Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez and Mayor Mark Golez.
Despite her short visit to Negros, Puentevella said that Diaz will continue her training in the province, as she is scheduled to participate in a world championship in Uzbekistan, being a defending champion in the 55 kgs category.
On Sept. 7, Diaz received an additional P3 million from the Philippines Olympic Committee, after being honored by the House of Representatives and Philippines Senate, he added.*
