Filipino Stars
People

Teófilo Yldefonso

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Profession: Athlete
Birthday: January 31, 1903

Teófilo Yldefonso is a legendary Filipino athlete and a pioneer in Philippine sports history. He is best known as the first Filipino and Southeast Asian to win an Olympic medal, a feat that cemented his place as one of the country most important sports icons.

Yldefonso won two Olympic bronze medals in swimming, both in the men 200-meter breaststroke event, at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics and the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics. At a time when the Philippines had limited resources and international exposure, his achievements brought immense national pride and global recognition.

His legacy goes beyond medals. Teófilo Yldefonso opened the door for generations of Filipino athletes, proving that Filipinos could compete and excel on the world stage.

Tags: Swimming

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Olympic Achievements

  • Bronze Medalist, Men 200m Breaststroke – 1928 Amsterdam Olympics
  • Bronze Medalist, Men 200m Breaststroke – 1932 Los Angeles Olympics
  • First Filipino Olympic medalist
  • First Filipino athlete to win multiple Olympic medals

Legacy and Honors

  • Recognized as a Philippine sports pioneer
  • Considered one of the greatest Filipino swimmers of all time
  • Inducted into Philippine sports history as a national hero
  • Continues to be cited as a symbol of excellence, discipline, and perseverance

Life and Historical Significance

  • Served in the Philippine Scouts during World War II
  • Died as a prisoner of war during the Japanese occupation in 1942
  • Remembered not only for athletic excellence but also for patriotism and sacrifice
  • His story is taught as part of Philippine Olympic and sports history

Fun Facts

  • Nicknamed the “Ilocano Shark” for his dominance in swimming
  • Won his Olympic medals decades before the Philippines had formal sports programs
  • Remains one of the few Filipino athletes with multiple Olympic medals
  • His achievements stood unmatched for decades in Philippine swimming