By REYNALD MAGALLON
Carlos Yulo and Miguel Tabuena gave the country something to cheer for after being battered by endless – somewhat already tiring – news headlines about corruption issues, earthquakes and calamities, and disserving politicians
Yulo vaulted to another gold medal in the 2025 FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships while Tabuena essayed a historic performance to rule the International Series Philippines in a golden weekend that at least provided the Filipinos some sort of optimism after a stretch of negative events in the country.
The 4-foot-11 dynamo registered an average of 14.866 points after garnering 15.200 points in his first vault and 14.533 points in the second to claim the gold mint in the same apparatus where he delivered one of his two Olympic gold medals last year.
Yulo, for one, embodied the same resilience that most Filipinos have been banking on especially dealing with the country’s current pressing issues as he bucked a wrist injury to claim another gymnastic glory.
“I just want to keep learning. For me, I’m a challenger. Last time I did win in the Olympics, but that’s about it. I value the journey more than the result, so whatever happens, I will keep trying and I will keep proving that my gymnastics is beautiful.”
Tabuena, on the other hand, sizzled with a 7-under par-65 to tally a four-round total of 24-under 264 to leave earlier pursuers Thailand’s Sarit Suwannarut and China’s Sampson Zheng in the dust and claim the crown.
“I’m still on a high right now,” said Tabuena who was emotional after getting the victory.
And there’s nothing sweeter for Tabuena than bringing honor to the country right at home with his own compatriots serving as witnesses to his historic showing.
“I’ve always wanted to get my hands on one of these trophies and it was nice that the first one is at home, in my home club. I’m so thankful for everyone who came out, my family, my friends.”
