Three Filipino climbers made history by reaching the summit of Mount Everest in 2025. Discover their journey, achievements, and the inspiring story behind this proud moment for the Philippines.
🏔️ A Historic Climb: Filipinos at the Top of the World!
On May 15, 2025, the Philippine flag once again waved high above the clouds as three courageous Filipino climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest! 🏳️🌈 At 8,848 meters above sea level, this incredible feat marks a new chapter in Philippine mountaineering history.
👣 Meet the Brave Climbers
LeThe first to reach the summit this year was Rhisael “Ric” Rabe from Cotabato City. He reached the top of Mount Everest on May 15, 2025, via the challenging South Col route. Climbing without major sponsors or large media backing, Ric’s story is one of personal passion and quiet strength. Many admire him for doing it out of love for the sport, not for fame.
Just a few days later, two more Filipino climbers, Jeno Panganiban and Miguel Mapalad, also made it to the summit on May 18, 2025. They are part of a mountaineering group called the Philippine 14 Peaks Expedition Team, a group that aims to climb all 14 of the highest mountains in the world (each over 8,000 meters high).
🏔️ Why Mount Everest Matters
Mount Everest is located in the Himalayas on the border between Nepal and China. At 8,848 meters (29,029 feet), it is the tallest mountain on Earth. Climbing it is extremely difficult and dangerous due to harsh weather, thin air, and steep icy trails.
To reach the summit of Mount Everest is considered one of the greatest accomplishments in the world of climbing—and now, these three Filipinos have added their names to that prestigious list.
😢 A Tragic Loss in the Climb
While the celebration continues, the Filipino mountaineering community also mourns the heartbreaking loss of Engineer Philipp “PJ” Santiago II, who sadly passed away at Camp IV on the same day. 🕊️
PJ’s mission was more than just the Mount Everest summit. He climbed to raise awareness for childhood cancer and clean water projects in the Philippines. Though he didn’t reach the top, his selfless purpose and courageous spirit left an unforgettable legacy.
Filipinos on Everest: A Growing Legacy
Before this historic 2025 climb, only eight Filipinos had successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest. The first was Leo Oracion in 2006, followed by Erwin Emata and Romi Garduce in the same year. In 2007, three Filipina climbers—Noelle Wenceslao, Carina Dayondon, and Janet Belarmino—made history as the first Southeast Asian women’s team to conquer Everest.
Now, with Ric, Jeno, and Miguel reaching the top in 2025, the number of Filipino Everest summiteers has grown to eleven.
🌟 Why This Climb Matters
This isn’t just a win for the climbers—it’s a win for every Filipino who dares to dream big. 🇵🇭
- It reignites national pride in high-altitude climbing.
- It inspires young adventurers to explore, train, and dream.
- It showcases Filipino strength, discipline, and heart on a global stage.
🎯 What’s Next for the Climbers?
The Philippine 14 Peaks Expedition Team isn’t stopping here! Panganiban and Mapalad are pushing forward with their goal to conquer all 14 peaks above 8,000 meters.
With strong local support and growing interest in mountaineering, this may be just the beginning of more Filipino victories in the mountains of the world.
💬 Final Thoughts
The 2025 Mount Everest climb is a powerful reminder that Filipinos can stand tall among the best in the world. 💪 Whether reaching the summit or supporting from home, we all share in this moment of pride.
Let’s continue to cheer on our brave mountaineers as they chase more records, break more barriers, and inspire generations to come! ❤️
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