Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz expressed her gratitude and pride as she served as the guest speaker for the graduation ceremony of the University of the Philippines College of Human Kinetics.
"It’s such an honor and privilege to be chosen as the guest speaker for the UP College of Human Kinetics Class of 2025. 🎓❤️, " she remarked in an Instagram post.
Hidilyn highlighted the important role the graduates will play in shaping the future of sports and wellness in the country. "Sila ang magiging kinabukasan ng Philippine sports, fitness, and wellness- our future coaches, strength and conditioning experts, doctors, teachers, and professionals who will shape the physical well-being of our nation," she said.
The athlete also emphasized the critical role the graduates will play as future coaches and mentors. "Bilang isang atleta, alam ko kung gaano kahalaga ang mga mentor, coach, at health advocate sa paghubog ng isang champion- not just in sports, pero pati na rin sa buhay. Kaya saludo ako sa bawat graduate na piniling maglingkod gamit ang kanilang kaalaman at puso," she stated.
Hidilyn ended her message with a wish for the graduating class, encouraging them to stay grounded and passionate in their pursuits.
"My wish for all of you: kahit saan kayo dalhin ng buhay, dalhin ninyo ang passion to serve- para sa pamilya at para sa bayan, the humility to keep learning, and the courage to always give your best," she said.
Hidilyn added: "Mabuhay ang UP CHK Class of 2025! Kayo ang kinabukasan, make it count."
In a recent report by ABS-CBN News, Hidilyn hinted at the possiblity of teaching at UP. "Masaya akong ibalita sa inyo na excited na ako sa posibilidad na magbahagi pa ako ng aking karanasan at mga natutunan at magturo dito sa inyong unibersidad. Sana matuloy ito," she shared.
Hidilyn graduated from De La Salle with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, major in management in July 2023.
The Tokyo 2020 Olympian took to social media to pen an inspiring post following her graduation in 2023.
"Dreaming of graduating from college and earning a degree while preparing for the Olympics. Hindi ko akalain na magagawa ko, after sleepless nights and tiring days from training while attending school at De La Salle - College of St. Benilde. Posible pala," she wrote on her Facebook page.
She went on: "Kung nakaya ko, kaya ng mga student-athletes, at mga bata at sa lahat na gusto makapagtapos, age doesn’t matter, mahirap pero super worth it. I never imagined reaching this point. But here I stand 👩🎓🏋️♀️."