Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz brought honor to the Philippines and inspired her countrymen when she bagged a silver medal win in the Rio Olympics. But her road to victory and recognition had not been easy.
Find out how she braved through her struggles as she shares her moving life story, with actress Jane Oineza portraying her, in “MMK” this Saturday (Sept 24).
Hidilyn grew up in a poor family in Zamboanga City. Despite having to endure her days with a half-empty stomach, all she ever wanted was to her parents’ and siblings’ attention and love to get through her family’s struggles. Growing up, however, Hidilyn sensed that her parents played favorites among them. For example, she would always be asked to fetch water, even though she had an older sibling who should be doing it.
When she discovered weightlifting through her cousins in 2002, she invited herself to their training sessions and became addicted to the sport. She also had a rough start in the sport because she would use tree branches during practice instead of proper equipment.
It was not long until Hidilyn competed locally and internationally. The sport did not only give her recognition but also significantly helped her financially, helping her finish her studies. But in spite of being acknowledged for her outstanding skill in weightlifting, she could not help but feel unhappy and underwhelmed because her family seemed to be indifferent to her still.
In 2014, life became more difficult for her, as she experienced a series of misfortunes in her chosen sport, as well as her love life.
How did Hidilyn get through her life’s biggest challenges to win in the Olympics? Will Hidilyn ever get the affection and attention of her family she has been craving her whole life?
Joining this “MMK” episode are Sofia Millares, Maricel Morales, Smokey Manaloto, Brace Arquiza, John Vincent Servilla, Hero Angeles, Laisa Comia, Dominic Roque, Monsour del Rosario, Ahron Villena, Mico Aytona, Kokoy de Santos, and Perry Escaño. The episode is directed by Dado Lumibao and written by Mary Rose Colindres and Arah Jell Badayos. “MMK” is led by Star Creatives COO Malou Santos.
Don’t miss the longest-running drama anthology in Asia, “MMK,” every Saturday on ABS-CBN.
