Philippines’ first Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz turned emotional upon meeting the country’s second gold medalist, Carlos Yulo, in Paris. The iconic Eiffel Tower served as their backdrop during this heartfelt encounter.
Carlos Yulo made history by winning two gold medals in men’s gymnastics, one in the floor exercise and another in the vault.
“I’m so proud of you, Caloy,” Diaz expressed emotionally in a report from GMA Integrated News’ JP Soriano, a member of the Philippine Olympic Committee media. “Alam ko ‘yung pinagdadaanan niya eh. Nasa side lang ako pero alam ko. I’m so proud of you na na-overcome mo ‘yung lahat ng challenges.”
Yulo reminisced about how Diaz’s victory in Tokyo inspired him. “‘Yung time na nanalo siya ng gold medal, pinakita niya sa akin and sabi ko sa sarili ko, ako rin next time,” Yulo shared, reflecting on his journey. “Maiyak-iyak ako nu’n nung sinabi ko ‘yun kasi grabe yung na-experience ko from Tokyo. Sobrang overwhelmed ako and hindi ko alam kung ano ang gagawin and sobrang frustrated ako that time. Ngayon, parang sobrang worth it po talaga ang pagod paghihirap ko. Grabe ‘yung naging motivation and inspiration ko mula kay Ate Hidilyn, palagi ko ‘yun dala-dala.”
Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino expressed immense pride in the achievements of the Olympians, stating, “My Tokyo and my Paris.”
Currently, the Philippines boasts two gold medals from Carlos Yulo and two bronze medals from boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio.