Philippine Weightlifting Federation president predicts a battle between China and the Philippines in the next Summer Games

The Philippines delivered a standout performance at the 2025 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) Youth and Junior World Championships in Lima, Peru, securing 10 gold medals and signaling a promising future as the country eyes the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas (SWP) president Monico Puentevella has boldly predicted a head-to-head showdown between powerhouse China and rising contender Philippines at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in weightlifting.

A Budding Rivalry in the Making

Speaking at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum, Puentevella cited the recent results from the 2025 IWF Youth and Junior World Championships in Lima, Peru, where:

• China and the Philippines each captured five gold medals in the Youth category.

   

This medal parity, Puentevella emphasized, signals the Philippines’ arrival as a serious force in international weightlifting, traditionally dominated by countries like China, North Korea, and Thailand.

“In the World Youth last month, China won five gold medals and the Philippines won five golds also. That’s why in the Los Angeles Olympics, it will be a fight between China and the Philippines.”
— Monico Puentevella, SWP President

What This Means for the 2028 Olympics

• Youthful Depth: With lifters like Alexsandra Diaz, Jhodie Peralta, Jay-R Colonia, and Albert delos Santos emerging as champions in global events, the Philippines is building a robust pipeline.

   

• China’s Dominance Tested: China has long been considered untouchable in Olympic weightlifting, but this performance hints at a growing competitive edge from Southeast Asia.

   

• Legacy of Hidilyn Diaz: The 2020 Olympic gold medalist’s success continues to inspire and elevate the sport back home, contributing to better development programs and scouting of young talent.
  
  

  LOOK: Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas President Monico Puentevella talks about the achievements of junior athletes in various international meets this year during the Philippine Sportswriting Association Forum at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on Tuesday (June 3, 2025).… pic.twitter.com/CfnRwgL6uZ

  — Philippine News Agency (@pnagovph) June 3, 2025

   

The Bigger Picture

This early forecast sets an ambitious tone for Philippine weightlifting. If momentum continues, especially with support from government and private backers, the Philippines may enter the 2028 Games not just as participants, but as legitimate medal contenders across multiple weight classes. 

A Bright Future for Philippine Weightlifting

The Philippines’ impressive medal haul in Lima underscores the depth and talent emerging in the country’s weightlifting scene. With athletes like Diaz, Colonia, Bacaro, Peralta, and delos Santos leading the charge, the foundation is being laid for continued success on the world stage. Their achievements not only bring pride to the nation but also inspire the next generation of lifters aiming for Olympic glory in 2028.

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