Manager of Hidilyn Diaz Explains His Side on the Phoenix Fuel Issue
NOEL FERRER – The manager of Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz released an official statement responding to the explanation given by the oil company Phoenix Petroleum regarding the widely discussed “free fuel for life” reward promised to the athlete.
Ferrer clarified that when the incentive was first announced after Hidilyn’s historic win at the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, it was publicly presented as a lifetime supply of free fuel. According to him, the reward was introduced as a simple gesture of appreciation for bringing pride to the Philippines, and no rules, limits, or conditions were mentioned at the time.
Ferrer explained that it was only about two years later that the company raised conditions related to brand partnerships. This surprised Hidilyn’s team because those conditions were not part of the original understanding. They also said there was never any agreement that would prevent Hidilyn from working with other petroleum companies. Because of this, Ferrer believes it is unfair to place responsibility on Hidilyn for issues that arose later, especially since the reward was originally presented to the public as a straightforward gift.
He also clarified that his earlier public comment about the fuel reward was based on facts and the actual situation. Ferrer emphasized that neither Hidilyn nor her team intended to create conflict or negative reactions toward the company. While Phoenix Petroleum eventually decided not to continue the fuel benefit, Ferrer said they respect the company’s decision.
The issue resurfaced online as fuel prices increased worldwide, prompting people to remember the reward given to Hidilyn after winning the Philippines’ first Olympic gold medal in 2021. Phoenix earlier explained that it had supported the athlete even before the Olympics and provided financial rewards and fuel donations after the victory. The company said the arrangement changed when Hidilyn partnered with another fuel brand.