Did a Chocolate Malt Drink Remove Carlos Yulo as its Endorser?

Recent social media posts claiming that the “CEO” of MILO commented on the alleged removal of two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo as a brand ambassador have stirred significant debate online. The posts, shared widely on Facebook, suggest that the CEO made remarks about the brand’s commitment to family values and character, implying that these principles guided the decision to end Yulo’s endorsement.

The claims originated from a Facebook page named “Busy Buzz,” which shared a supposed quote attributed to the MILO CEO. Interaksyon cited the post which stated, “Ayon sa kanya, ang tunay na tagumpay ay hindi lamang nakabatay sa mga medalya o sa mga natamong premyo, kundi sa mas mahalagang aspeto tulad ng pagpapakumbaba, utang na loob, at pagiging mabuting tao (True success is not only based on medals or awards but on humility, gratitude, and being a good person). The post also featured a quote card that read, “Opisyal na tinanggal si Caloy: ‘Milo is a family-oriented brand’ (Caloy has been officially removed: Milo is a family-oriented brand).”

However, many users on social media quickly disputed the authenticity of these claims. An online user on Reddit pointed out that there was no official statement from MILO regarding Yulo’s status as a brand ambassador. “This is FAKE NEWS. There’s no official statement from Milo, and the guy on the left is not associated with Milo or Nestle,” the Redditor wrote on September 24, 2024. This sentiment was echoed by others who emphasized that Nestle, the parent company of MILO, typically maintains a professional approach in its communications regarding brand ambassadors.

Clarification on the management structure of MILO reveals that it does not have its own CEO. Instead, MILO is a chocolate malt drink produced by Nestle, whose CEO is Laurent Freixe. The CEO and chairman of Nestle Philippines is Kais Marzouki. Neither Freixe nor Marzouki has commented on Yulo’s endorsement, and no credible reports or interviews exist to suggest otherwise.

The image featured in the viral posts purportedly included a picture of Josip Rupena, who is the CEO of a financial technology company named Milo, further indicating the misleading nature of the claims surrounding Carlos Yulo’s endorsement.

Yulo has been associated with MILO since at least 2020, when the brand released a prominent advertisement highlighting his journey as a gymnast. Notably, Yulo’s younger self was portrayed by his brother, Karl Eldrew Yulo, adding a personal touch to the narrative.

Despite the rumors, there has been no recent statement from MILO regarding Carlos Yulo’s role as a brand ambassador.

In contrast, Asia’s top pole vaulter, EJ Obiena, recently renewed his partnership with MILO. Carlo Sampan, head of MILO Sports, expressed enthusiasm about continuing their legacy of inspiring youth through sports. “He [EJ] has proven his mettle, and what brought him here is a journey marked by challenges and setbacks which became stepping stones to greatness,” Sampan stated earlier this month.

MILO has been a longstanding supporter of Philippine sports since 1964, championing various grassroots initiatives like the National MILO Marathon, MILO Sports Clinics, MILO Little Olympics, and the MILO Champ Camp. The brand’s dedication to nurturing talent among young athletes underscores its commitment to empowering sports in the Philippines.

Read related article: Carlos Yulo Earns Second Gold Medal at Paris Olympics 2024