Mark Andrew Yulo, the father of Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo, has publicly denied allegations of misusing or stealing money from his son’s savings.
Speaking at a press conference alongside his wife, Angelica Yulo, Mark addressed the growing controversy surrounding their family, which has drawn significant public attention.
During the press event, Mark expressed regret for any distress his previous comments may have caused Carlos, emphasizing that his intentions were never harmful. He stated that his main concern has always been his son’s well-being.
The rift between Carlos and his parents reportedly dates back to 2022, primarily due to disagreements over Carlos’ relationship with his girlfriend, Chloe San Jose, rather than financial issues. Mark clarified that the family had no reason to take any of Carlos’ money, pointing out that despite the gymnast’s growing wealth, their lifestyle has remained modest.
“P6 million pa lang yung pera niya, then naging P11 million. Hindi naubos yun. Bakit namin nanakawin yan? Kung nasa amin yung pera, sana umalis na kami sa looban. Sana may mga account na kami, may kotse na kami. Wala nga kami, nagko-commute lang kami,” Mark said.
He also highlighted the family’s accustomed lifestyle, saying, “Kahit wala naman kami, sanay naman kami walang pera, e. Sanay kami sa problema, sanay kami sa kahit ano lang ang kinakain namin. Sanay kami sa asin. Gusto ko sana yung masaya lang kami. Gusto ko nga sana mabalik yung dati, kaya lang ngayon? Magulo pala kapag ganito, kapag marami kang pera.”
Reflecting on happier times, Mark shared, “Gusto ko yung bago siya sumikat noong 2019, gusto ko yung masaya lang kami. Masaya kami, kumakain kami sa labas. Lahat naman yan mag-aasawa, mga anak. Pero ang gusto ko, yung bonding lang, masaya.”
Mark also expressed his hope for reconciliation between Carlos and his mother, acknowledging the toll the public scrutiny has taken on their family. He expressed frustration over the role of social media in amplifying the situation, which he believes has made things worse.
“Kanya na lahat yun (incentives, rewards mula sa pagkapanalo sa 2024 Paris Olympics), basta magkaayos lang sila. Goods na ako. Mabait na bata naman yan, e,” Mark said. “Balikan na sana niya ang mama niya, kahit huwag na ako. Karugtong ng buhay niya yan e.”
Mark concluded by lamenting how the family’s issues have overshadowed Carlos’ recent successes, including his historic gold medals. While the country celebrates his achievements, the Yulo family is dealing with personal struggles that have become a public spectacle.