ABS-CBN News
Philippine gymnastics received a major boost with the set up of world-class equipment from the FIG World Junior Championships, now permanently installed at the main training center of the Gymnastics Association of the Philippines (GAP) in Intramuros.
The blessing ceremony was led by GAP president Cynthia Carrion, Philippine Sports Commission chair Pato Gregorio, Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, and the GAP board, marking a significant step forward for the country’s gymnastics program.
Double Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo, World Cup gold medalist Eldrew Yulo, along with members of the national, junior, and youth teams, attended the event and welcomed the new equipment, which was blessed by Fr. Didoy Molina Jr.
Gymnasts from the national and junior squads showcased their routines across different apparatus, while rhythmic gymnastics athletes also delivered performances in the other disciplines: rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline, and aerobic gymnastics.
Gregorio expressed strong confidence in the future of Philippine gymnastics, citing its rapid rise over the past decade.
“Ten years ago, zero ang gymnastics sa Philippines. Now we’re one of the top in the world,” Gregorio said. “We see a lot of young boys and girls here, as young as 3, 4, 5 years old inspired by Caloy.”
Carrion, for her part, reflected on the transformation of the training venue, which was once a damaged warehouse.
Macapagal-Arroyo also praised Carrion’s leadership and dedication. “[Gymnastics] is a sport that requires not only power but also poise,” she said.
Looking ahead, Philippine gymnasts are set to compete in the Asian Championships, where Carlos, Eldrew, and their sister Elaiza will represent the country. Carlos is also scheduled to leave for France next week after advancing to the Top 12 series finals with his club, OAJLP Gymnastique.
The two-time Olympic champion has set his sights on winning gold at the Asian Games this September and returning to the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Gregorio also shared Carrion’s target for the next Olympics for gymnastics to win three golds.
“At the time of the Paris Olympics, people were asking me how many golds we would get. I said I’ll get three, maybe two, but for sure one! Now I think because Eldrew is with us, I think we can have three,” Carrion said.
Gregorio emphasized that athletes should remain focused on their craft rather than pressure.
“Hindi naman nila alam ang salitang pressure. Talagang devotion, passion and focus,” he said.
“Naniniwala ako na, hindi lang po dahil kapatid ko siya, tayong mga Pilipino, kaya po natin, na kailangan lang natin subukan. Kailangan natin na pagpursigihan. Kailangan lang po natin sila imulat sa ganitong klaseng sport,” said Carlos.