GLOWING GOLDIES: Asian Games heroes gunning for more glory

The nation erupted in cheers when Carlos Yulo of gymnastics, Ernest John Obiena of athletics and Jeus Yape of taekwondo delivered gold medals in the 20th Asian Games last week in Nagoya.

But for these super athletes, their triumphs are not the destination but just the start of their long journey to glory.

During the Heroes Welcome organized by the Philippine Olympic Committee and Philippine Sports Commission for Asian Games medalists on Monday night, the 26-year-old Yulo said the challenge now is how to maintain his consistent performance following a string of victories both at the world and Asian levels.

Two years after winning a pair of gold medals in the Paris Olympics, Yulo brought glory to the country anew when he plucked two gold medals in his pet events — floor exercise and vault — in the prestigious continental showpiece.

Despite his impressive performance, he will still troop back to the drawing board to determine how he can stay on top and bring more pride to the Filipinos.

“For me, I always look at my performance. Of course, I know that I want to win a medal,” said Yulo after being serenaded by the sweet melody of cheers and applause from his fellow athletes, coaches and sports officials.

“But at the same time, I always focus on my performance and preparation for the competition — preparation, good performance and good results. So, even if I don’t win a medal, I look at my consistency in preparing for the competition.”

Obiena, meanwhile, found renewed motivation after successfully defending his pole vault title while setting a new Asian Games record of 5.91 meters.

The 30-year-old vaulter missed the podium in the Paris Olympics after battling a back injury throughout the season. Now, he finally found his footing in Nagoya and it seems that he doesn’t have any plan of slowing down.

“It’s a little bit gloomy after Paris. I think I never truly digested that and things continued,” Obiena said as he sets his sights on qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

“It made me realize why I want to do this. That made me realize what I’m competing for, why I enjoy these moments.”

Yape also made history by delivering the Philippines’ first taekwondo gold in the mixed virtual taekwondo event.

Yet the 22-year-old did not let his breakthrough stop him from learning, turning to his fellow gold medalists for advice on how to improve his craft.

“I’m happy to be with Kuya EJ as he would calm me down and encourage me,” said Yape, a University of Santo Tomas student who represents the future of Philippine sports.

“I would even ask for tips from Kuya Caloy for tricks since freestyle needs you to be acrobatic.”

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick “Pato” Gregorio urged the medalists to maintain the same commitment as they move forward, assuring them that the government will continue to back their careers.

“As for us, our support for Filipino athletes remains unwavering. We will continue to support you all the way,” Gregorio said.

“Pay no mind to what is being said on social media. What matters is that we are happy; we have brought honor to the Philippines.”

Before the night ended, Yulo, Obiena and Yape sat together and proudly displayed the gold medals that made the country proud in the biggest, most prestigious multi-sport tournament in Asia. It was a mission accomplished, a solid proof that Philippine sports is truly enjoying its golden era.