IN this file photo taken last May 30, Yulo receives from the Office of the Speaker, represented by Head Executive Assistant Director V Atty. Lemuel Romero, cash assistance extended to all the Paris-bound Filipino Olympians. Photo by VER NOVENO
CASH REWARD
THE House of Representatives, led by Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, committed an initial P3 million incentive to Paris Olympic Gold Medalist Carlos Yulo.
Romualdez hailed the Filipino gymnast as a “sports hero” and “national treasure” for his extraordinary and electrifying triumph, winning the gold medal in the men’s final floor exercise at the Paris Olympics 2024.
According to the Speaker, Yulo’s historic victory, marking the Philippines’ first-ever Olympic medal in gymnastics and only the second gold medal since joining the Summer Games 100 years ago, “symbolizes the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Filipino people.”
Chairman of the House committee on appropriations and Ako Bicol Rep. Elizaldy Co said the House of Representatives is honored to award Yulo with P3 million as this reward reflects the Congress support for his continued success and our commitment to fostering Filipino talent on the international stage.
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Carlos Yulo for securing the first Olympic gold medal for the Philippines at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. His dedication and hard work have brought immense pride to our nation,” Co said in separate statement.
“Carlos has shown that with determination and resilience, Filipinos can excel and achieve greatness in any field. Napatunayan ni Carlos na kayang makipagsabayan ng mga Pilipino sa buong mundo. Siya ay isang inspirasyon sa lahat ng kabataan at sa mga nangangarap. Siya ang patunay na kapag may sipag at tiyaga, walang imposible,” he added.
Earlier, Speaker Romualdez extended financial assistance to 22 Filipino athletes participating in the Paris Olympics.
Romualdez has also initiated a fundraising campaign among his House colleagues to provide additional cash incentives to Yulo.
“Today, we celebrate a monumental achievement that resonates deeply with every Filipino heart. Carlos Edriel Yulo has not only soared to the pinnacle of athletic excellence but has also emerged as a sports hero and national treasure, igniting a beacon of hope and inspiration for all Filipinos,” Romualdez declared.
Yulo will also be conferred a congressional medal for his exceptional achievement and contribution to Philippine sports.
The House has pledged P3 million for gold medalists, P2 million for silver medalists, and P1 million for bronze medalists.
Filipina boxer Aira Villegas, who hails from Tacloban City, is already assured of at least a bronze medal after winning against France’s Wassila Lkhadiri in the women’s 50kg quarterfinals.
“As a fellow Taclobanon, I am incredibly proud of Aira, our Tacloban champion, for securing at least a bronze medal after her hard-earned victory against a French rival,” Romualdez said.
“With her tenacity and talent, Aira still has a chance to bring home either a silver or gold medal. Tacloban City and the entire country are cheering on her every step of the way,” he added.
As the nation basks in the glory of Yulo’s victory, Speaker Romualdez called on all Filipinos to unite in celebrating this historic achievement.
“Let us come together to honor Caloy, whose dedication and excellence have brought us immense pride and joy. His victory is not just a personal triumph; it is a triumph for every Filipino, a beacon of what we can achieve together,” the Speaker said.
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