By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

Philippine Weightlifting Association President Monico Puentevella said his organization hopes to secure more weightlifting talent in 2018.

“We need more Hidilyn Diaz,” he said.

Puentevella said he currently has around 10 athletes set to undergo long-term training in China, including Diaz, Kristhel Macrohon, Eileen Anne Ando, and Dessa delos Santos.

“This is part of their preparation for the upcoming Asian Games in Indonesia this year, and the Youth Olympic Games in Argentina,” Puentevella explained.

Diaz, who won a silver medal at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, picked up a silver and bronze medal in the 53 kg division at the 2017 IWF World Weightlifting Championships last month./JSG, WDJ