Diaz has long been advocating to include weightlifting in the Palarong Pambansa because it will contribute to the growth of the sport and ensure that many lifters will follow in her footsteps.

“Siyempre, sobrang saya,” the weightlifter said.

Diaz also said that there is a need for a long-term program.

“We have to think long-term. Paano natin ipo-program ito? Kasi syempre hindi lang pwede na ipapasok pero walang programa,” she emphasized.

“We have to think long-term, five years, 10 years, na sana ma-sustain ito… maipasok talaga ang weightlifting sa Palarong Pambansa,” she added. “Kasi kung walang programa, magko-collapse.”

“So kailangan, may programa para continuous ang program for weightlifting sa Palarong Pambansa.”

Monico Puentevella, president of the Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP), told reporters on Tuesday that he has already submitted a proposal to the Department of Education, detailing why weightlifting would be a great addition to the multi-sport event.