Reaching the peak of Mount Everest is widely regarded as one of the most challenging feats a mountaineer can attempt. Its towering summit, at 8,848 meters above sea level, requires exceptional physical stamina and mental strength from those willing to take on the climb. The journey is fraught with hazards — avalanches, altitude sickness, and unpredictable weather conditions. These dangers have resulted in tragic stories of lives lost during the expedition. Despite these threats, many climbers remain determined to reach Everest’s summit. One of the most inspiring stories is that of Miguel Mapalad, a Filipino mountaineer who overcame numerous obstacles to stand atop the world’s highest peak. He now encourages others with his bravery, humility, and unwavering commitment.
Other Filipino climbers who successfully reached the summit include Jeno Panganiban and Ric Rabe. They dedicated their achievement to their late teammate, PJ Santiago. Miguel and Jeno are members of the Philippine 14 Peaks Expedition Team, a local mountaineering group whose mission and vision are to conquer all 14 of the world’s tallest 8,000-meter peaks.
Miguel Mapalad’s climb was a badge of Filipino resilience and determination. During his homecoming press conference last June 11 at the Delimondo Cafe in Makati, he answered questions in a mix of Filipino and English, with a lighthearted tone. “Along with training, you also need to train your wallet,” he joked, reflecting on the hefty financial commitment required to reach such heights. The humor masked a serious truth — mountaineering at Everest is incredibly expensive. Miguel shared that he spent around 4 to 5 million pesos to make his dream a reality.
“Honestly, the expenses before Everest are even higher. Mountaineering is quite heavy,” he explained, emphasizing how costs extend beyond gear to permits, oxygen, Sherpa support, insurance, and logistics. The cost of an Everest expedition depends on various factors. The route chosen, guide services, and level of support all impact the final tally.
Nonetheless, the core expenses include permits, oxygen tanks, Sherpa guides, specialized equipment, and insurance. These add up to a significant financial burden that often takes years of preparation, both physically and emotionally.
“Mount Everest is not just a thing you can do easily. Just having shoes, a jacket, and money doesn’t mean you can do Everest. You really need to prepare for it,” Miguel emphasized, putting emphasis that climbing Everest demands planning and determination. In seeking assistance for his expedition, Miguel turned to Delimondo, a Filipino brand known for its premium corned beef. Katrina Ponce Enrile, the founder, explained that while Delimondo doesn’t spend on ads or endorsers, they support causes aligned with their values. “We are a perfect match,” she told Miguel. She handed him a photo book of his climb and a special edition of their ranch-style corned beef. “We have the same journey, although different. I don’t think we could have chosen a better partner than having Mr. Miguel Mapalad himself,” she added, recognizing Miguel’s dedication.
Having conquered Everest, Miguel’s spirit of giving back is now a central part of his mission. In partnership with Delimondo, a special Miguel Mapalad Expedition will be launched to raise funds for the Sagarmatha Pollution Control Committee (SPCC) in Nepal and help less fortunate children in San Luis, Aurora. “Because I always go back to the Everest region, I usually guide at the base camp and smaller peaks there. I see that their tourism is booming, but the trash is also multiplying. This is where SPCC is struggling. Firstly, in funds and manpower, because to start actions, they need to pay people. When I saw that I could help since I’m always there, I decided to support them and share their program with my community,” Miguel shared.
Beyond environmental efforts, Miguel also aims to uplift marginalized communities in his hometown of San Luis, Aurora. He established the Pacific Coast Trail to help isolated residents whose children often struggle to finish school—many only reaching Grade 3 because their families are mostly farmers. “There is an isolated community there that really finds it hard to find transportation. Some of the young people only go up to Grade 3, because their parents are mostly farmers. So we will assist with outreach for the empowerment of children to continue their studies,” he explained.
Miguel’s Everest milestone, achieved alongside fellow climber Jeno Panganiban, symbolized the strength and potential of Filipino mountaineers. He hopes that this success will inspire broader support from government sectors and communities for aspiring climbers. “I hope communities and the government will help mountaineers fulfill their dreams. Mountaineering is not just a personal dream or goal. Many of our mountaineers are contributing to us—they monitor our environment, report illegal loggers, recycle natural resources, promote environmental awareness, and help communities that are hard to reach. Their contributions are a big part of caring for our natural resources, so it’s only right that the government and the nation support them,” he shared.
Miguel believes his story is an inspiration to every Filipino with dreams and determination. To those who dream of climbing the Everest, he said, “Gradually, start small.” He reminded that there is a process. “You need to train your body, practice, and realize what you are capable of,” he added to his advice for mountaineers. Patience, preparation, and starting from small steps are crucial because the real battle lies in discipline and perseverance.
