MANILA, Philippines — Hidilyn Diaz swamped the social media lately as her “lifetime fuel incentive” with Phoenix Petroleum for winning the country’s first Olympic gold medal went viral.
Diaz’s manager, Noel Ferrer, claimed in his post that the incentive was good for only two years and not a lifetime supply of fuel.
Phoenix Petroleum released a statement after a backlash from netizens, who accused the company of not upholding the deal.
“In March 2022, Ms. Diaz received her second year of fuel donation from us. Upon acknowledging receipt, she was asked if she could share about the donation online. She declined, citing she recently entered into a contract with another petroleum company,” the company wrote in a statement posted on its socials.
“She soon ceased communicating with us. We respected her decision.”
The petroleum company also expressed its dismay to the manager.
“We are also disappointed that this matter was raised publicly by her manager before any direct communication or clarification with us. Had they reached out first, it could have been clarified privately and amicably,” the statement said
Still, the company wishes Diaz well.
“Phoenix Petroleum remains proud of the role we played in supporting our athletes during an important chapter of their journey,” it added.
“Lastly, 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.”
