MANILA, Philippines — Hidilyn Diaz, the first Filipina to win an Olympic medal after winning silver in the 53kg weightlifting category of the 2016 Olympics, shocked or in social media terms, “shookt” the audience with her new look and sexiness at a recent underwear fashion show in Taguig City.
Hidilyn walked the runway alongside other celebrities — Jennylyn Mercado, Wilma Doesnt, Tricia Centenera and Daniel Matsunaga — wearing almost nothing but underwear at the recent Avon Fashions Intimate Apparel fashion show.
In an interview with Philstar.com, Hidilyn confessed that modeling underwear for the first time was nerve-racking. This, however, was her second time after ramp modeling in a private wedding, but she was wearing a gown then.
Related video: Hidilyn on her makeover and modeling stint
“’Di ko alam kung papano ko iprepresent sa kanila, pero ang sabi nga nila, be comfortable,” she said on how she pulled off modeling underwear. “Love who you are, so ayun, nilabas ko kung sino ako.”
Though modeling underwear made her nervous, she easily said “yes” to it because she believes in the show’s advocacy to promote women of different stripes.
She admitted that there was a time she felt unattractive because she had bigger biceps than many men. Fortunately, today, she has found a boyfriend who is also a weightlifter.
Although usually conceived as boyish, she makes sure to still show her feminine side by wearing makeup during competitions as it is a sign of confidence that can intimidate opponents.
“Be who you are. Don’t be afraid to show your uniqueness,” she advised. “May kanya-kanya tayong ganda. Kung may weakness, gawin mong strength. Kayang kaya mo ‘yan!” — Videos by Kat Leandicho