Hero’s welcome is waiting for Hidilyn Diaz in returning back to the country Thursday, August 11.
Diaz is excited to get home after a historical win at Olympics 2016 in Rio de Janeiro Brazil.
On Wednesday morning (August 10), Diaz bid her teammates goodbye then boarded an Emirates flight back to the Philippines. She is expected to be treated like a queen the moment she lands at the airport.
Before traveling, the Pinay silver-medalist joined the Philippine delegation in Rio de Janeiro in a thanksgiving dinner hosted by the Philippine Olympic Committee. From the restaurant, she and fellow weightlifter Nestor Colonia, and coach Alfonso Aldanete were brought to the airport.
POC second vice president Col. Jeff Tamayo accompanied the small but victorious group in the long flight back home.
Diaz was toasted and cheered during the dinner of Brazilian steak, salad and wine. The Philippine Ambassador to Brazil Jose Burgos graced the affair, among other guests, including Brazilians who work for the Games.
The 25-year-old Diaz, who gave the Philippines its first Olympic medal in 20 years, held back her tears as she bid her teammates, including those who are still in contention, goodbye. Most of them have been here in Rio since July 23.
“Excited na ako umuwi pero malungkot din ako kasi iiwan ko na kayo. Napamahal na ako sa lahat ng kasama ko dito,” said Diaz, who added that she can’t wait to see her parents, Eduardo and Emelita, once she arrives in Manila.
Diaz’ parents will be flown to Manila from Zamboanga City. From the NAIA Terminal 3, the country’s first weightlifter to win an Olympic medal will be taken to Resorts World where she and her family, and her two other companions will stay overnight.
A press conference is being planned at around 6 p.m. at the hotel. If plans push through, Diaz and company will be flown to Zamboanga City the following day on board a private plane courtesy of sports patron Manny V. Pangilinan.
On the coming days, Hidilyn Diaz is expected to meet with President Rodrigo Duterte at the Malacañan following the invitation of the chief executive.
