IT SEEMS we now have to get used to calling Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo not just the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist, but also a proud professor at the University of the Philippines.
Beginning next year, she’ll be known as Professor Diaz-Naranjo, as she’s set to join the faculty of the UP College of Human Kinetics (UP CHK), according to her announcement on Instagram Thursday.
This exciting update comes nearly three months after she initially teased the idea of pursuing a brand-new professional path, following many years of success as an elite athlete.
Diaz-Naranjo has long emphasized the lasting value of balancing academic excellence with athletic success. She even managed to complete her college degree while rigorously training for top-level international competitions.
Good Day, Prof. Diaz
The idea was first hinted during the recognition rites of the College of Human Kinetics at UP Diliman in July, where she showed interest in joining academia, expressing a passion for mentoring students by sharing her journey.
“Met with the members of the College Executive Board of UP-CHK as I prepare for my upcoming teaching engagement. It’s a new path, a level-up opportunity to become a lecturer at UP CHK!” she wrote in her post.
Now, everything is finally coming to full fruition. By stepping into the role of an educator, the Filipina weightlifter is taking her mission to give back even further by passing on her knowledge and experiences to her future students.
“When they asked, ‘Why teach?’ I said, ‘Because I want to keep learning, and I hope my students will learn from me too.’ Designing a curriculum to promote and spread weightlifting has always been a dream,” she wrote.
“I’m excited and nervous, but ready to give my best. I love weightlifting, and I’ll keep doing my best to grow and share the sport I love. Can’t wait to meet my future students and co-faculty members,” Diaz-Naranjo added.
At the same time, the Olympic gold medalist expressed heartfelt gratitude to UP for the chance to educate future Iskolars ng Bayan, and shared that she’s beyond excited to embark on this new chapter.
“Thank you, UP, for welcoming me and believing in what I can share. Excited to start this new journey. See you on January 2026!” she said.
Diaz-Naranjo has been actively guiding the nation’s young and aspiring weightlifters through the HD Weightlifting Academy. Even so, she remains part of the lineup for the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Thailand this December.
