In the games of the XXXII Olympiad, the Philippine National Anthem was heard!

@eileenleyva (27562)
Philippines
July 26, 2021 12:46pm CST
Almost a century long quest for gold, the road to El Dorado has become a story of self-sacrifice for every Filipino athlete. In a country gripped by demagoguery, the athlete is on his/her own striving daily to practice and perfect the craft. Such is the story of a nondescript young lass named Hidilyn Diaz from an impoverished family. The difference is, Hidilyn had a dream, and a heart, to alleviate her plight. Realizing she had a gift - a Samson-like strength to carry heavy burdens, she honed her mind and body to achieve perfection. Last night, the diminutive bemuscled Hidilyn Diaz displayed her prowess in weightlifting at the 32nd Olympic Games. She won the GOLD. A weight off her shoulders. Finally! Not an eye dry as the 'Lupang Hinirang' was played, with Hidilyn on a salute, to a flag she took an oath to serve and protect. Gratitude in the hearts of every Filipino, Hidilyn. You made us stand proud.
The very first Olympic Gold Medalist of the Philippines. Hidilyn Disz. Congratulations ??
9 people like this
11 responses
@S4mmyboy (3266)
• Mumbai, India
26 Jul 21
Wow... This is so touching.... Well deserved gold for her and her country...... Am so proud of her... Congratulations to Hidilyn and you. It bought tears watching the video.
3 people like this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
26 Jul 21
Thank you very much. The whole country was jubilant, the social media abuzz with the heartwarming, euphoric win.
1 person likes this
@S4mmyboy (3266)
• Mumbai, India
26 Jul 21
@eileenleyva the whole country would give her a grand welcome. So happy for her
1 person likes this
@S4mmyboy (3266)
• Mumbai, India
26 Jul 21
@eileenleyva it really sad to politicise and differentiate people. Anyways she proved them wrong. Hats off to her and good to know that the people of your country would love to welcome her.
1 person likes this
@rsa101 (37952)
• Philippines
28 Jul 21
Yeah, she is in the news all over for now. She got a lot to receive after her feat in the Olympics. I am proud of what she achieved and all politicians are trying to get their fair share of fame.
2 people like this
@rsa101 (37952)
• Philippines
31 Jul 21
@eileenleyva Oh I guess everyone is trying their fair share of exposure but since she will have to undergo quarantine protocols. None will have the chance to really have that physical exposure with her. But with the rewards she had received I guess she will have a lot to take home and enjoy for the rest of her life if she can manage it well.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
31 Jul 21
@rsa101 Her mother reportedly said that she wouldn't want to leave home. But I think, with a Thomasian psychologist on Hidilyn's advisement team, she'll be able to make wise decisions.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
29 Jul 21
Our bemuscled brown heroine. Gosh, I am so happy for her. Wish the politicians keep out...
1 person likes this
• United States
26 Jul 21
It gave me goosebumps to read that. A wonderful description of an amazing journey to victory. I felt your pride and the pride of a Nation swell in your words. Very nice post. It's worth a gold medal to me. I cried right along with the girl on the podium as your National Anthem played.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
26 Jul 21
Thanks very much. That is so touching, you crying along with our Hidilyn. I think you know the soul of the Filipino. That makes you an honorary Filipino!
1 person likes this
• United States
26 Jul 21
@eileenleyva I'm honored beyond words. Thank you for that.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
26 Jul 21
@Vikingswest1 Here's to an American with a keen sense of understanding and a compassionate heart - MABUHAY! It's our traditional welcome greeting but actually wishes the addressee to 'long live.' The good Lord bless and keep you.
@rakski (112925)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
so so happy with this one!
2 people like this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
Yup. She filled me with joy. Her winning meant the hope is eternal. Hidilyn is now an inspiration to the youth. By the way, she broke the world record.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
@rakski Hopefully that stays for a long, long time.
1 person likes this
@rakski (112925)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
@eileenleyva yes, she got the new record.
1 person likes this
@florelway (23141)
• Cagayan De Oro, Philippines
27 Jul 21
And beating China.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
The Chinese body frame more for martial arts, gymnastics, and diving, I think. Powerhouse in team sports also like basketball. Weightlifting and boxing, now that the Pinoy are shining, are probably ours.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
@florelway A kilo is heavy enough for me. Ha ha. Two kilos does makes the huge difference. Our Hidilyn is a winner.
1 person likes this
@florelway (23141)
• Cagayan De Oro, Philippines
27 Jul 21
@eileenleyva yes I agree with you. 2 kilos more or less she beat the Chinese. That's not much weight.
1 person likes this
@asianlady (2697)
• Ireland
26 Jul 21
Oh! Wow, she deserves it.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
26 Jul 21
A shining gold to her name now inscribed in history of Philippine sports.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
27 Jul 21
@asianlady Yes! Local magnates promised monetary equivalent for the first gold. Hidilyn is now a multimillionaire. Plus, she will receive a house and lot in Tagaytay. Wow!
2 people like this
@asianlady (2697)
• Ireland
26 Jul 21
@eileenleyva I'm so proud of what she did to her life despite her circumstances. She toggles the success button and she made it.
1 person likes this
• Pamplona, Spain
28 Jul 21
I love it when I see athletes that are very much on their own standing out in the crowd. Proud of her doing so very well done congrats to her.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
29 Jul 21
Thank you very much. Hidilyn is very grateful for all the accolades.
1 person likes this
• Pamplona, Spain
30 Jul 21
@eileenleyva She surely deserves praise well done.
1 person likes this
@marlina (154166)
• Canada
13 Aug 21
Congratulations to Hidilyn Diaz: a well deserved GOLD
@MALUSE (69413)
• Germany
26 Jul 21
I find nationalism in sports ridiculous. When Germany wins a medal, it doesn't make me proud. 'I' haven't won anything myself. I admire the athletes who are at the top, but they're there becaue they're good and not because they have a certain nationality.
@lovebuglena (43077)
• Staten Island, New York
26 Jul 21
A great achievement for your country.
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
26 Jul 21
It is. Thanks to Hidilyn Diaz. That is the most precious gold this country is grateful to have won.
1 person likes this
• India
28 Jul 21
Thats great
1 person likes this
@eileenleyva (27562)
• Philippines
29 Jul 21
Thank you.
1 person likes this