The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has “sincerely apologized” for using Filipino gymnast Carlos Yulo and his double-gold win at the 2024 Paris Olympics to promote vasectomy.
In a statement on Wednesday, Aug. 7, IPHO explained that it was “never [their] intention to misrepresent” the 24-year-old athlete or “imply any personal endorsement from him.”
“We recognize that our choice of imagery was inappropriate and may have caused confusion and offense,” it said.
“We deeply respect Mr. Yulo’s achievements and his contributions to sports and did not seek to undermine his personal or professional image in any way,” IPHO added.
In the now-deleted Facebook post, IPHO offered “free vasectomies” to Ilonggos named “Carlos,” including their friends.
Vasectomy is a permanent family planning method for men. The procedure prevents sperm from mixing with seminal fluid ejaculated during sex.
IPHO vowed to “improve [their] communication strategies” to ensure that their “future campaigns are conducted with the utmost care and consideration.”
“We are committed to promoting public health initiatives with sensitivity and respect for all individuals,” it stressed.IMT
