Hidilyn Diaz, the Philippines' first and only Olympic gold medalist, expressed her determination to continue in weightlifting despite failing to qualify for her fifth consecutive Games. Diaz, 33, was beaten by her compatriot Elreen Ando in the IWF World Cup, with Ando securing a spot for the Philippines in the Paris weightlifting event.

While disappointed by missing out on Olympic qualification, Diaz remains committed to her sport and plans to continue lifting. She acknowledged the challenges of competing in the heavier 59kg class but remains focused on her future in weightlifting.

Diaz expressed gratitude to her supporters and emphasized her commitment to inspiring Filipino youth through sports. Despite the setback, she is determined to elevate her efforts to a higher level.

Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham Tolentino noted Diaz's unfortunate miss of a record fifth consecutive Olympic appearance and highlighted challenges both Diaz and Ando faced, including competing in weight classes not their own and Diaz's injury during training for the qualifiers.