PASAY CITY — It was raining medals, and a little rain was not about to dampen the celebration. The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) warmly welcomed the national weightlifting delegation back from the 2026 Asian Youth & Junior Weightlifting Championships in Uzbekistan, honoring their record-breaking 31-medal haul.
A Golden Streak Continues
The team, composed of young athletes who once competed in the PSC's grassroots "Batang Pinoy" program, delivered a masterful performance on the international stage. They collectively secured 16 gold, 6 silver, and 9 bronze medals across the youth and junior divisions. Their triumph underscores the success of the country's sports development pathway.
PSC Commissioners Olivia 'Bong' G. Coo, Walter Francis K. Torres, and Matthew 'Fritz' Gaston led the welcome. They were joined by Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas President Monico Puentevella and PSC Chairman Patrick 'Pato' C. Gregorio. The celebration was a proud moment for the entire Philippine sports community.
Standout Performances and Rising Stars
The delegation's success was powered by exceptional individual performances. Albert Ian Delos Santos set new Asian and World Junior Records in the men's 70kg category, sweeping three gold medals. His incredible clean and jerk lift of 180kg was a highlight of the tournament.
Alexsandra Ann Diaz, the niece of Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz, continued to build her own legacy, claiming three golds and two bronzes. Her consistent performance across youth and junior divisions signals a bright future for the sport. The depth of talent was evident in every category.
A Testament to Grassroots Development
The athletes' journey from local competitions to international podiums validates the PSC's commitment to grassroots sports. The "Batang Pinoy" program has proven to be a fertile ground for discovering and nurturing future champions. This latest victory serves as powerful inspiration for aspiring young athletes across the nation.
The success also highlights the strong collaboration between the government and private sponsors. The support from organizations like the MVPSF and ICTSI ensures that athletes have the resources to train and compete at the highest level. This investment is paying off with historic results.
