So Did Hidilyn Diaz Ever Receive Her "Lifetime Supply" of Fuel?

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has sent ripples through the global economy. Following attacks by the United States, Iran has blocked parts of the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage through which one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moves. This disruption has led to a sharp increase in the prices of diesel, gasoline, and kerosene worldwide, including in the Philippines.

Motorists have expressed frustration over the situation, as the surge adds to their financial burden. In light of the spike, some netizens have resurfaced posts from 2021 recalling how Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz was promised a “lifetime supply” of fuel from Phoenix Petroleum.

After making history as the first Filipino to win an Olympic gold medal, Hidilyn Diaz was approached by several brands offering gifts. Among them was a lifetime supply of fuel for her vehicles from Davao-founded oil company Phoenix Petroleum.

In an interview with Spin.ph in 2022, Hidilyn shared that she uses the fuel allowance sparingly, saying, “Hindi ko naman po ina-araw-araw ’yun.”

With fuel prices rising drastically, some netizens have joked about asking Hidilyn if they could also benefit from her supposed perks from Phoenix Petroleum. Amid the wave of social media memes, the athlete’s manager, Noel Ferrer, later offered a clarification, saying, “Drawing naman talaga ang lifetime na fuel supply.”

In a conversation with PEP.ph, Noel candidly revealed that the promised gift was not fully realized, noting that Hidilyn does not actually have access to unlimited fuel refills from Phoenix Petroleum. “Medyo naiiling na lang ako. Si [Hidilyn] ay tumatahimik na lang at idinadaan na lang sa punchline,” he shared.

“Hanggang doon na lang muna at baka may mam-bash pa sa amin sa pag-take up nito ngayong napaka-crucial na panahon. Pero waley ang lifetime supply na fuel na nai-commit.”

As of writing, Hidilyn herself has yet to comment on whether she has been able to access the promised lifetime supply of fuel, or any of the other pledges made to her. These included beauty products from Ever Bilena, flight credits from Philippine Airlines, and meals from Kanto Freestyle Breakfast, Burger Garage, Tipsy Pig Gastropub, and Korean barbecue restaurant Yumgyeopsal.

Phoenix Petroleum, however, has shared its side of the story. In a statement released on March 12, the company said, “We fulfilled our commitments. As with many corporate donations, such arrangements are guided by conditions, including brand alignment.”

The company explained that in 2022, Hidilyn signed a contract with a competing petroleum brand, which rendered her partnership with Phoenix void. “As circumstances changed and Ms. Diaz engaged with another fuel brand, the fuel donation arrangement could no longer continue under the same terms,” the statement continued.

Phoenix added that while it respects Hidilyn’s decision, it was disappointed that her management publicly disclosed the matter. The company concluded by expressing continued support for the athlete, stating, “Our respect for Hidilyn Diaz and all Filipino athletes remains steadfast, and we are one with Filipinos in enduring the current difficulties we all face.”