Carlos Edriel Yulo’s name is now synonymous with Philippine sports history. His gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics was more than just a personal triumph; it was a seismic event that elevated the Philippines, and by extension, the entire Southeast Asian region, to unprecedented heights in the global sports arena. With one gravity-defying flip and a perfect landing, Yulo catapulted the country onto the international sports stage, inspiring millions. His journey from the streets of Malate to the Olympic podium is a testament to the power of dedication and the potential that lies within each of us.
How does a boy from the bustling streets of Malate, Manila, ascend to the pinnacle of his sport? There are rarely any shortcuts to achieving Olympic gold. It’s a relentless pursuit of excellence that demands unwavering dedication, immense discipline, and an unyielding spirit. So, where does it all begin?
Recognizing and nurturing talent from the earliest stages is the key to unlocking such extraordinary potential.
In the Philippines, a country passionate about sports, grassroots sports development holds immense potential. By nurturing young talent from the ground up, grassroots programs instill discipline, teamwork, and a healthy lifestyle. These programs serve as breeding grounds for future champions, but their impact extends beyond the playing field. Grassroots sports development fosters community, reduces social inequalities, and promotes physical and mental well-being. Through these initiatives, we can unlock the full potential of our nation’s youth and create a legacy of athletic excellence.
A prime example of this potential is seen in the journey of Carlos Yulo, whose rise to Olympic gold began from humble beginnings. At the ripe age of seven, Yulo was given an opportunity to hone his skills under the guidance of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines. His early participation in junior and inter-school competitions demonstrates how grassroots programs can provide critical platforms for young talents. By the age of nine, Yulo competed in the his first Palarong Pambansa, and in the following years, he distinguished himself in the MILO® Little Olympics where he was recognized as the Most Outstanding Athlete for Gymnastics from 2010 to 2011. His success continued as he won three gold medals at the inaugural Philippine National Games in 2011. Through these initiatives like MILO®, Yulo was able to refine his abilities, gain recognition, and compete at higher levels, illustrating the profound impact that well-structured grassroots sports programs can have on nurturing future champions.
MILO® will continue to drive its sports programs to nurture young talents from the grassroots. Since its inception in 1964, the brand has allowed Filipinos to discover and develop their athletic prowess. From the iconic National MILO® Marathon that ignited the running craze to the MILO® Sports Clinics that honed skills and values, the brand has consistently nurtured the Filipino youth to become champions not only in sports but also in life. This commitment is further reflected in initiatives like the MILO® Champ Camp and the MILO® Barangay Liga, which have collectively inspired millions of young athletes and brought the joy of sports to communities nationwide.
“Through sports, individuals learn invaluable values such as grit, discipline, and perseverance—essential qualities for success,” shares Veronica Cruz, SVP and Business Executive Officer, Beverages & Confectionery, Nestlé Philippines. “The brand’s commitment to nurturing Filipino talent is evident in its long-standing support of grassroots sports programs, which have played a pivotal role in developing athletes like Yulo. His triumph is a testament to the power of sports and the brand’s mission. Inspired by Yulo’s achievements, MILO® is even more determined to make sports accessible to bring out the champion in every Filipino.”
Visit the MILO website, www.milo.com.ph, for more information. Follow its social media, @MILOPhilippines, on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
