Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo, who secured two gold medals in the Paris Olympics, was warmly welcomed back home with celebrations planned to honor his historic achievement. The 24-year-old’s victories in the men’s floor exercise and vault marked the most significant triumph by a Filipino athlete since the country began participating in the Games a hundred years ago. Alongside Yulo, Filipino boxers Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas also secured bronze medals in women’s boxing in Paris.

The elation surrounding Yulo’s success has brought a sense of joy to a nation grappling with poverty and internal discord. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. commended Yulo, affectionately known as Caloy, for bringing pride to the Philippines with his double Olympic gold wins. The president expressed the nation’s overwhelming pride and unity in supporting the accomplished gymnast.

Upon his return to Manila, Yulo and other Filipino Olympians were greeted by enthusiastic supporters waving flags, cheering his name, and clamoring for handshakes and photos. The athletes were reunited with their families before heading to the Malacanang palace for a ceremony where President Marcos would bestow medals and financial rewards upon them. The collective cash and gifts pledged by the government, prominent business figures, and leading Philippine companies for Yulo, including a condominium unit and a resort house, totaled over 58 million pesos ($1 million).

Manny Pacquiao, a renowned Filipino boxer, pledged an unspecified amount of cash to honor Yulo’s remarkable achievement. A celebratory parade slated for the following day in Manila is expected to attract a large crowd, passing through the neighborhood where Yulo spent his formative years. In this community, Yulo’s success has become a symbol of hope and inspiration, with residents eager to celebrate his triumphant return.

Yulo’s story parallels that of weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz, who secured the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic gold in Tokyo in 2021, further solidifying the country’s presence on the global sporting stage.