CBCP extends 'utmost gratitude' to Hidilyn Diaz

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on Tuesday extended its utmost gratitude to Filipina weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz for bringing honor to the country.

Diaz bagged the gold in the women's 55-kg category to end a near century-long Olympics gold medal drought since the Philippines first saw action in the Games in 1924.

In a statement, CBCP President Archbishop Romulo Valles pointed out that Diaz was wearing the Miraculous Medal of Our Lady as she held the Olympic gold medal in one of her photos.

"We admire her devotion to the Blessed Mother as she carried in her victory her great faith in God," Valles said.

"Hidilyn is a true weightlifter who draws her strength from her love for the country and her deep Catholic faith," he added.

On her first Instagram Stories post since winning the gold on Monday, Diaz was seen holding up both the Olympic gold medal in one hand and the miraculous medal on the other.

She later on revealed the meaning behind the miraculous medal.

"Miraculous medal po. Binigay ng friend ko nag-novena sila for nine days before my competition. Ako din po nag-novena," Diaz said in a press conference.

She said it was a symbol of her supporters' prayers and her faith to Mary and Jesus Christ. -- Ma. Angelica Garcia/BAP, GMA News