Caloy, Dito Papa Mo: A Father’s Love Shines at the Olympian Parade

Carlos Yulo’s father, Mark Andrew Yulo, was indeed a proud and enthusiastic supporter during the homecoming parade for Filipino Olympians in Manila. He was seen among the crowd, energetically waving a banner that read “Caloy, dito Papa mo!” to catch his son’s attention. This gesture highlighted his immense pride and joy for Carlos’s achievements, especially after winning double gold medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

This moment highlights the deep familial pride and support that often accompanies the achievements of athletes. It’s a touching reminder of the personal sacrifices and emotional investments families make to support their loved ones’ dreams. Mark Andrew’s visible excitement and pride not only underscore his love for his son but also reflect the collective joy and pride of the Filipino people in celebrating Carlos Yulo’s historic achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

While many celebrated this moment, some Filipinos felt a tinge of sadness seeing him just as part of the crowd. Here are a few reasons why:

• In Filipino culture, family is highly valued, and parents are often seen as integral to their children’s success. Seeing Mark Andrew in the crowd rather than in a more prominent position might have felt like his contributions were underappreciated. 
• His father’s visible support and emotional reactions resonate deeply, making people wish he had a more celebrated role in the event. 
• Seeing Mark Andrew in the crowd might have highlighted the sacrifices he made, evoking empathy and a desire for him to receive more recognition. 
• There might be a perception that parents of such accomplished athletes deserve special acknowledgment. Seeing him in the crowd could have felt like a missed opportunity to honor his role in Carlos’s achievements.

As for why he was in the crowd instead of beside Carlos, it could be due to several reasons. Often, such parades are organized with specific protocols and security measures to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the event. Family members might be positioned in designated areas to allow the athletes to interact with the public and media more freely. Additionally, being in the crowd allowed Mark Andrew to share the moment with fellow Filipinos, celebrating his son’s success as part of the larger community.

Regarding Carlos' mother, there hasn’t been specific information about her absence during the parade. It’s possible she was present but not in the same visible capacity as his father, or there could be personal reasons for her absence or simply a preference to stay out of the public eye. 

It’s heartwarming to see such genuine support and pride from Carlos’s family, reflecting the strong familial bonds and the collective joy of the nation.

[credits to the owner of the photos]