MAKATI CITY — The inaugural “HD LiftOff” weightlifting competition made its debut at the Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City on August 15–16, 2026, bringing together more than 130 lifters from different parts of the country. Organized by Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz and her coach-husband Julius Naranjo, the two-day event gave Filipino athletes an opportunity to compete using official Olympic-grade Eleiko barbells. More than a competition, the tournament provided grassroots lifters with exposure to world-class standards while helping raise awareness and interest in Philippine weightlifting.
Emerging Athletes Take the Spotlight
Several promising athletes delivered impressive performances throughout the competition. Among them was Asian junior champion and continental record-holder Albert Ian Delos Santos, who showcased his abilities in the Open division. Twelve-year-old Samantha Diaz also drew attention after securing second place in the Youth U12 girls category, highlighting the potential of young athletes in the sport. The event also received support from Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick C. Gregorio, who attended the tournament and voiced his backing for grassroots programs that give developing athletes access to high-level competitive experiences.
Building the Next Generation of Weightlifters
Beyond showcasing strength and athletic ability, HD LiftOff 2026 reflected Hidilyn Diaz's continuing effort to develop future Filipino weightlifting champions and expand the sport's reach nationwide. Families, sports fans, and members of the community gathered at the venue, creating an encouraging and celebratory atmosphere for the participating lifters. With its successful first edition, HD LiftOff has emerged as a promising platform for identifying and developing new talent. The event further highlights the growing potential of Filipino weightlifters and the country's aspirations to remain a strong contender on the international stage.
