GYMNAST Carlos Edriel Yulo joined the Philippine Navy’s reserve force last Tuesday, nearly two months after winning two gold medals at the Paris Olympics.
Yulo took his oath as a reserve Petty Officer 1 before Maj. Gen. Joseph Ferrous Cuison, commander of the Naval Reserve Command, in rites at the Navy headquarters in Manila.
“I am proud to have the privilege of being enlisted in the Philippine Navy Reserve Force, a recognition I never expected in my lifetime. Wearing this Navy uniform fills me with immense pride,” said Yulo.
“With all my heart, I thank the Philippine Navy for this prestigious recognition. I will uphold its core values and inspire today’s youth, showing them that through sports, they too can serve our country,” said Yulo.
Yulo also expressed his commitment to serving the country beyond sports.
Navy chief Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr, in a message read by Cuison, expressed confidence Yulo would also excel as a member of the Navy Reserve force.
“Your dedication, discipline, and drive made you a champion on the world stage, and now, you bring those same qualities to the Philippine Navy,” said Adaci.
“We know that when you commit to something, you give it your all. I am confident you will do the same as a reservist, standing alongside men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting and uplifting our nation,” added Adaci.
Some athletes are members of the military’s reserve force, including boxer and former Sen. Manny Pacquiao, a colonel in the Army reserve force.
Navy spokesman Commander John Percie Alcos said the enlistment of Yulo into the Navy reserve force “exemplifies the PN’s commitment to nurturing exceptional individuals who embody the values of discipline, dedication, and service with the continuous mission to inspire the Filipino people and uplift the nation.”
