Two-time Olympic gold medalist and gymnast Carlos Yulo received a P14 million incentive from the House of Representatives on Wednesday in recognition of his record-setting performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Breakdown of Incentives
Yulo, who secured gold medals in both the floor exercise and vault, was awarded P6 million by the House of Representatives as an institution. An additional P8 million came from contributions by over 300 House members during the reception for the Filipino Olympians.
Congressional Medal of Excellence
In addition to the financial incentive, Yulo received a Congressional Medal of Excellence for his outstanding achievements. He expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him, acknowledging the collective effort behind his success.
“Salamat po sa mga nagpuyat para mapanood kami. Ang panalo po namin ay panalo nating lahat,” Yulo said, thanking everyone who stayed up late to watch their Olympic performances. “My victory is a victory for all Filipinos.”
Other Olympians Honored
Olympic bronze medalists and boxers Aira Villegas and Nesthy Petecio each received P2.5 million cash incentives from the House. Other Olympians present during the reception included:
- Swimmers: Jarod Hatch and Kayla Sanchez
- Trackster: Lauren Hoffman
- Hurdler: John Cabang Tolentino
- Boxers: Eumir Marcial, Carlo Paalam, and Hergie Bacyadan
- Weightlifters: John Ceniza, Elreen Ann Ando, and Vanessa Palomar Sarno
- Pole Vaulter: EJ Obiena
- Rower: Joanie Delgaco
- Judoka: Kiyomi Watanabe
Absent were US-based athletes Aleah Finnegan, Levi Jung Ruivivar, Emma Malabuyo, golfers Bianca Pagdanganan and Dottie Ardina, and fencer Sam Catantan.
Legislative Amendments Proposed
Speaker Martin Romualdez praised the Olympians for their inspiring performances and proposed amendments to the National Athletes, Coaches and Trainers Benefits and Incentives Act of 2001 to enhance their benefits.
“Our Olympians have become the inspiration of our nation. You have brought us honor, and your performances were a golden opportunity to show the world how great Filipinos are. We want to thank each and every one of you athletes, of course, the coaches and your family that all supported you, for you have made this all possible,” Romualdez said.
Romualdez emphasized the need to review and amend Republic Act 10699 to better support Filipino athletes. He announced plans to meet with Philippine Sports Commission chairperson Dickie Bachmann and Philippine Olympic Committee president Bambol Tolentino for their input.
Additional Incentives
Earlier, Yulo received P40 million in incentives from the Office of the President and the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation.