Jay Colonia (PHI)
A powerful new wave of Filipino talent is making its presence felt on the global stage, as the Philippines secured five gold medals on the opening day of the 2025 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Youth and Junior World Championships in Lima, Peru—signaling the nation’s continued rise as a weightlifting powerhouse.
Leading the charge was 17-year-old Jay-R Colonia from Zamboanga City, who dazzled in his international debut by winning two golds in the Youth Men’s 49kg division—for the clean and jerk and overall total—and a silver in the snatch. The young lifter’s surprise performance exceeded expectations and underscored the depth of talent emerging from grassroots programs in the Philippines.
“This is my first time competing internationally, and I was nervous,” said Colonia. “But I’m proud I nearly broke my own training record. This means everything.”
Adding to the medal haul was fellow Zamboangueña Alexsandra Ann Diaz, who clinched gold in the Youth Women’s 45kg snatch and total lifts. She also earned a bronze in the clean and jerk, showcasing dominance and composure well beyond her years.
Not to be outdone, Cebu’s Althea Bacaro made her mark in the Youth Women’s 40kg division, capturing gold in the snatch, silver overall, and bronze in the clean and jerk. A student from the University of Cebu, Bacaro credited her success to focused training and the unwavering support of her coaches.
“This medal is for everyone who believed in me,” said Bacaro. “You need to train with heart and always trust the process. I’ve learned that discipline beats everything.”
In the Junior Women’s 45kg category, Angeline Colonia, another promising lifter from Zamboanga, added a silver in the snatch and a bronze in the total. She narrowly missed the podium in the clean and jerk, finishing fourth.
While not medaling, Prince Keil Delos Santos of Angono, Rizal, turned in a commendable performance in the Junior Men’s 55kg division, finishing fourth in the snatch and total, and sixth in the clean and jerk.
National coach Christopher Bureros praised the team’s opening-day performance, noting the dedication and technical growth of his athletes. “What we’re seeing is the result of years of consistent development,” said Bureros. “The future of Philippine weightlifting is already here—and it’s bright.”
Veteran coaches from Zamboanga and beyond—Antonio Agustin, Gregorio Colonia, and Diwa Delos Santos—have been instrumental in nurturing this next generation of lifters, many of whom began training before they were teenagers.
Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas president Monico Puentevella emphasized the significance of the performance, not just for the medals won but for what they represent. “To be winning golds against world-class opponents—including China—on the first day alone is a statement,” he said. “With the support of our sponsors, coaches, and families, we’re gearing up for even greater heights, including the road to the Los Angeles Olympics.”
Up next on the competition floor are Zamboanga’s Rosalinda Faustino (Junior Women’s 49kg), Jhodie Peralta (Youth/Junior Women’s 55kg), and Albert Ian Delos Santos (Junior Men’s 67kg), who will aim to build on the country’s early momentum.
The championships, divided into Youth (13–17 years) and Junior (15–20 years) divisions, serve as a crucial proving ground for the sport’s future stars. And with this explosive start, Team Philippines has shown that its future may be arriving ahead of schedule.
