NAGOYA, Japan—Sweet memories of her historic Olympic gold medal win at the Tokyo Olympics came flooding back as Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo served as one of the torchbearers in the torch relay heading toward the Aichi-Nagoya 20th Asian Games on Thursday.

After completing her segment of the relay, she was met by the Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino to exchange pleasantries.

The 4-foot-11 weightlifter from Zamboanga City clinched the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medal in Tokyo – roughly 342 to 366 kilometers by train, and about 384 kilometers by car from this prosperous city.

Diaz-Naranjo’s feat was described by those who were able to witness her exploit as historic and barrier-shattering as it ended the country’s 97-year search for the ultimate prize of them all.

Her role as a torchbearer is a fitting reward for her remarkable achievement during the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games.

Diaz-Naranjo is praying for the country’s success in the continental showpiece, much like her triumph during the Jakarta Games in 2018.

She tried to add another Asian Games glory but she failed at the Hangzhou Games.

“Keep the fire burning,” Diaz said.

Out to carry the fire for the country are tennis phenom Alex Eala, double Olympic gold champion Carlos Yulo, jiu-jitsu ace Annie Ramirez, pole vaulter EJ Obiena and the loaded esports squad.