Philippine Olympic team returns home, medalists honored at Malacañang

Members of the Philippine Olympic centennial team, including multiple medalists such as gymnast Carlos Yulo, returned to Manila on Tuesday via a chartered Philippine Airlines flight from Dubai.

Yulo, who won two gold medals and made history as the first male Filipino athlete to win gold at the Summer Games, dedicated his victory to the entire country during an interview with reporters upon landing.

Other returning athletes included bronze medalists Nesthy Petecio and Aira Villegas, along with boxers Carlo Paalam, Hergie Bacyadan, and Eumir Marcial, hurdlers Lauren Hoffman and John Cabang Tolentino, weightlifters Elreen Ando and Vanessa Sarno, pole vaulter EJ Obiena, and others.

During the flight back home, athletes enjoyed business-class meals and complimentary inflight Wi-Fi. They were also gifted with Tanduay Rhum products.

Upon arrival at Villamor Air Base, the athletes were greeted by their families, military honor guards, and students from nearby schools before proceeding to Malacañang Palace for an awarding ceremony hosted by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos.