Diaz nets extra P5 million for record lift

MANILA, Philippines — For setting two Olympic records, gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz will receive an additional P5 million from the government via the Expanded Athletes Incentives Act or Republic Act (RA) 10799.

That is apart from the P10 million Diaz will receive from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) for her historic golden feat as stipulated in the same law. As it is, she is bound to receive P48.5 million in cash.

Diaz’ two new marks came in the clean and jerk where she lifted 127 kilograms and the total lift of 224kg that resulted to her topping the women’s 55kg division and delivering the country its breakthrough mint in the quadrennial event.

PSC officer-in-charge (OIC) Celia Kiram confirmed the additional reward.

“It has already been approved, signed and ready for release,” said Kiram, who, along with fellow commissioner Charles Maxey, personally welcomed Diaz upon the latter’s arrival Wednesday.

Under Republic Act 10699 or the expanded incentives act, national athletes and other athletes who surpass national records or in any major international competition in measurable sports shall are entitled to cash incentives, the amount of which may be determined by the PSC.