THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) has promoted Sergeant Hidilyn Diaz to Staff Sergeant following her gold medal win at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics weightlifting event, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Cirilito Sobejana said on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
Sobejana said Diaz’s promotion was approved by the PAF commanding general effective July 27, 2021.
“We laud and support this move at the general headquarters to mark SSg Diaz’s remarkable achievements in the field of sports and for bringing pride and glory to our country,” he said.
“Congratulations, SSg Diaz. The AFP is proud of your accomplishments and may you continue to serve as an inspiration to your fellow service members,” he added.
On Monday, Diaz bagged the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medal in 97 years after winning the women’s 55-kg weightlifting event.
She will be given a simple hero’s welcome at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday afternoon, July 28, 2021. She will, however, undergo mandatory quarantine for arriving travelers.
Diaz will receive P10 million from the government based on Republic Act 10699 or the “National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act,” P10 million each from business tycoons Ramon Ang and Manny Pangilinan, P3 million from Deputy House Speaker Mikee Romero, P5 million from businessman Dennis Uy and P2.5 million from the Zamboanga City Local Government.
Megaworld Corporation also gave Diaz a condominium unit worth P14 million while Century Properties and Philippine Olympic president Abrahan Tolentino will each give a house and lot.
Foton Philippines will give Diaz a brand new vehicle. Phoenix Petroleum pledged to given lifetime free gas to Diaz.
AirAsia Philippines gave her lifetime unlimited flights while Philippine Airlines will provide 80,000 free miles per year for life.
Various restaurants and coffee shops will also reward Diaz. (SunStar Philippines)