By JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
Carlos Yulo’s historic double gold win at the Paris Olympics 2024 has sparked a wave of rewards and recognition from both the government and private sector. As stipulated by Republic Act No. 10699, which covers the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act, Yulo is set to receive P10,000,000 for each gold medal, alongside an Olympic Gold Medal of Valor from the Philippine Sports Commission.
The House of Representatives has pledged an additional P6,000,000 in recognition of Yulo’s double gold achievement, and he will be awarded a congressional medal for his significant contribution to Philippine sports. Meanwhile, the Philippine Olympic Committee has committed to providing Yulo and other medalists with a house and lot, continuing their support as seen in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The private sector has also joined in on the celebration. Megaworld, initially offering a two-bedroom condo to each Filipino Olympic winner, has upgraded its reward for Yulo to a three-bedroom fully-furnished unit at McKinley Hill valued at P32,000,000. Additionally, a cash bonus of P3,000,000 has been added for his historic double gold achievement.
Bounty Fresh Group Holdings Inc. has announced a P3,000,000 cash reward, recognizing Yulo’s exceptional talent. This brings his total monetary rewards to P22,000,000 as of now.
In a show of support, several restaurant chains are offering Yulo a lifetime supply of food. JT’s Kalayaan branch has promised lifetime free meals, while Mang Inasal is providing unlimited Pecho Meals. BOK Korean Fried Chicken will offer its Double Double Box for life. Tipsy Pig resto-bar and Cookies by the Bucket are also giving Yulo free food and drinks for life, along with a lifetime supply of cookies. Hagemu Sushi and Ramen Bar will provide Yulo and his partner with free ramen for life, and BastaMura Bacsilog is offering its signature dishes indefinitely.
In terms of vision care, Ideal Vision is providing a lifetime supply of eyewear and eye care solutions. Toledomed is celebrating Yulo’s success with a P10,000,000 cash prize and a five-year brand ambassador contract. Gastroenterologist Dr. Virgil Lo is offering free medical services, including endoscopic procedures.
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has proposed enhancing government benefits, including a lifetime pension for Olympic medalists starting at age 40 or upon retirement. He aims to review and possibly amend the National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act to secure a brighter future for Filipino Olympians even after their sports careers. ###
