CV NEWS FEED // Catholic bishops in the Philippines are praising Olympic gymnast Carlos Edriel Poquiz Yulo after he became the country’s second athlete ever to win a gold medal, and the first to bring home two.
The 24-year-old gymnast won gold medals in the floor and vault exercises at the Paris Olympics on Saturday and Sunday, inspiring nationwide praise, including from the country’s bishops, according to a recent AsiaNews report.
A recent Tatler report states that Yulo’s “impressive gymnastics career” ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics included two gold medals, two silver medals, and two bronze medals from World Championship competitions, as well as 10 gold, two silver, and one bronze from Asian Championships. He also holds nine gold and two silver medals from the SEA Games, according to the report.
“Good things come to those who wait, but it’s essential to take action and stay determined. Perseverance is a powerful quality that propels us towards our goals,” stated Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos, vice president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (ECMI).
Addressing Yulo, the Bishop said: “You have inspired not only a generation of aspiring athletes but people of all ages, and you leave a legacy for the Philippines. Your achievements will continue to motivate and inspire others to reach for their dreams.”
He continued:
Just like Carlos, who is known to be a devoted believer in Christ, we can find strength with enduring faith in our devotion to Christ, giving God honor and praise for guiding and protecting us on our path.
You truly brought immense pride to our country. Carlos. Keep shining, and may your success continue to uplift the Philippines.
The president of Caritas Philippines, Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, also congratulated Yulo’s accomplishments, stating: “Caritas Philippines extends its heartfelt congratulations to Carlos Edriel Yulo for his extraordinary achievement in the Olympics.”
“May your success continue to inspire and uplift the lives of countless Filipinos, especially the marginalized and disadvantaged sectors of society,” he added.
