By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The provincial government of Negros Occidental will give tribute to Hidilyn Francisco Diaz, the first Filipino Olympic gold medalist, who is expected to arrive in Bacolod City today.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said Diaz is now an adopted daughter of the province by virtue of the resolution passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in a special session yesterday afternoon.

“The SP resolution also expresses commendation to Diaz for giving the first ever Olympic gold medal for the country,” Lacson said.

The tribute for Diaz will be held at 2:00 p.m. today at the capitol’s Social Hall.

Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) president Monico Puentevella said arriving with Diaz today is his coach and boyfriend Julius Naranjo.

They will stay until Sunday, September 12.

Puentevella said that on Sunday Diaz and Naranjo will be at Bantug Resort in Barangay Alangilan as he invited them for a family gathering.

“Third District Rep. Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez and Silay City Mayor Mark Andrew Golez will also tour Diaz and Naranjo in Silay City before they depart for Manila on Sunday,” Puentevella said.

While here in the province, Diaz and Naranjo will continue training in preparation for the Weightlifting World Championship in Uzbekistan./DGB, WDJ