Three more Filipinos reach Mt. Everest summit

Metro Manila, Philippines - Three Filipino mountaineers have recently reached the summit of Mount Everest, the world's highest point.

Jeno Panganiban and Miguel Mapalad reached the summit of Mt. Everest, which has an elevation of 8,848.86 meters on May 18, days after Ric Rabe accomplished the same incredible feat.

"This climb was never just for them, it was for all Filipinos. To show that we can dream big, rise higher, and endure together," Philippine 14 Peaks Expedition Team said in a Facebook post.

The team also honored the late Philipp Santiago, who died in the middle of his ascent on May 14, and thanked the Sherpa guides who helped Panganiban and Mapalad along their way.

Other Filipino mountaineers who reached the peak were Leo Oracion (May 17, 2006), Erwin “Pastor” Emata (May 18, 2006) and Romeo Garduce (May 19, 2006), Noelle Wenceslao (May 16, 2007), Carina Dayondon (May 16, 2007), Janet Belarmino (May 16, 2007), and Regidor “Regie” Pablo (May 17, 2007).

Dale Abenojar claimed that he was the first Filipino to reach the summit via the north route on May 15, 2006, but this is disputed due to lack of proof.