Hidilyn Diaz conducts weightlifting clinic in Agusan Sur
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur (PIA) — The first Filipino Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Francisco Diaz Naranjo, visited Agusan del Sur to share her knowledge of weightlifting with coaches from various Department of Education (DepEd) divisions in the Caraga region.
The event took place at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Covered Court, D.O. Plaza Sports Complex in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on March 31.
“One of my goals and the reason I didn’t give up during the pandemic was because of us Filipinos. As an athlete, I didn’t want to be a source of discouragement for others or cause them to lose motivation in what they do. So, I told myself that despite the hardships I was facing, I couldn’t give up because many young people were looking up to me, hoping that I could lift their dreams when I reached the Olympics. Honestly, you are my inspiration,” said Naranjo.
During the refresher course, together with her husband, Julius Naranjo, she shared weightlifting techniques, the proper way of lifting, how to take care of the body during competitions, and the importance of physical preparedness.
The coaches expressed their gratitude to the world-class athlete for sharing her knowledge, expertise, and experience. They believe that the lessons they learned from the course will inspire and create opportunities for young athletes in the Caraga region who are interested in the sport.
“I hope we can produce a gold medalist from Agusan del Sur, from the Caraga region. And when weightlifting becomes a medal event, the champion should be from Caraga,” said Maria Ines Asuncion, Department of Education (DepEd) regional director.
Weightlifting presents a great opportunity for Agusan del Sur, especially since no athletes from the province have yet benefited from the sport at the Palarong Pambansa. Holding refresher courses and receiving support from experts like Naranjo can significantly increase the chances of developing young athletes who can represent Agusan del Sur in the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026, which will be hosted in the province.
“We hosted the refresher course here so we could better prepare for the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026,” said Rill Lagulao, acting sports development officer.
The refresher course is also timely as it coincides with the Caraga Regional Athletic Games (CRAG) 2025. Some sports events are being held at the D.O. Plaza Sports Complex in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, as part of the province’s preparations for hosting the upcoming Palarong Pambansa 2026.
Like other sports, weightlifting teaches discipline, dedication, and mental strength that are essential to like skill and resilience. (KKG, PIA Agusan del Sur)
