Team Philippines returned home with a haul of 16 gold, six silver and nine bronze medals from the 2026 Asian Youth & Junior Weightlifting Championships in Uzbekistan, earning recognition from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

Despite heavy rain and strong winds, PSC officials welcomed the delegation and praised the athletes and coaches for their record-breaking performance in the continental competition.

PSC Commissioners Olivia “Bong” Coo, Walter Francis K. Torres and Matthew “Fritz” Gaston, along with Samahang Weightlifting ng Pilipinas President and former PSC Commissioner Monico Puentevella, led the recognition ceremony.

The Philippine delegation collected 31 medals across the youth and junior divisions, highlighting the country’s growing strength in weightlifting.

The PSC said many of the athletes began their competitive journeys in Batang Pinoy, its grassroots sporting event, before progressing to the international stage.

“Once dreamers competing in the PSC’s very own prestigious grassroots sporting event, Batang Pinoy, these athletes have transformed into international powerhouses,” the PSC said.

The commission added that the team’s performance demonstrated the impact of grassroots sports development and the athletes’ determination to represent the Philippines on the international stage.

The medal haul also underscored the continued rise of young Filipino weightlifters, who are now turning their early exposure to national grassroots competitions into success in major international events.