Before his roaring success on the biggest stage in sports, Carlos Yulo was once a young aspiring athlete, growing up in the streets of Barangay 711 in Leveriza, Manila where his pathway to gold and glory started.

And for those who first witnessed him dream big — his neighbors in their barangay — they are thrilled to see the Filipino gymnast achieve what he has always been working for.

“Imagine-in niyo po yun kapitbahay na po namin. Ngayon po, siya na ‘yung nagrerepresent ng Pilipinas,” one of Yulo’s neighbors told GMA Integrated News’ Jonathan Andal.

Hazel Javier, another neighbor of the Yulo family, added: “Congatulations, Caloy! Maganda ‘yung hangarin mo sa Pilipinas! Nakuha mo yung gold!”

But no one was happier for Yulo’ success than his own kin.

Yulo’s grandfather Rodrigo Frisco, who is largely credited as one of the people who pushed Yulo to try out the sport, said he can’t wait to reunite with his grandchild, who is now considered by many as a modern day hero.

“Gustong, gustong, gusto! Tagal nang hindi pumupunta rito eh, mahigit two years na yata eh,” Frisco said.

Yulo’s grandmother, Angelita Poquiz, agreed: “Masaya kung pupunta siya rito magkaroon ng victory party, masaya diba? Everybody happy.”

Yulo and the rest of the Philippine delegation on Tuesday night arrived in the country after helping the nation capture its best Olympic finish in 100 years.