There’s no stopping Jeno Panganiban.
Just a month after conquering Mount Everest, the highest peak in the world, the 29-year-old mountaineer and entrepreneur is already preparing for his next challenge: K2, also known as the Savage Mountain — the second highest, yet arguably most dangerous peak in the world.
“I’m targeting next year and hoping to make the summit on June 26,” Panganiban said at a homecoming event hosted by his sponsor, Century Tuna.
Panganiban, a Computer Science student at De La Salle University, was one of three Filipinos who successfully reached the Everest summit in May, alongside Ric Rabe and Miguel Mapalad. Their achievement marked the first time in nearly two decades that Filipino climbers had reached the top of the world’s tallest mountain.
But for Panganiban, Everest was just the beginning.
“K2 is the most technical 8,000-meter mountain in the world, so next month I’ll start training,” he shared.
Century Tuna, which backed his Everest expedition, hosted a celebration to recognize Panganiban’s historic feat. Century Tuna Executive Vice President and COO Greg Banzon called their partnership a natural fit.
“Century Tuna is proud and honored to support Jeno’s journey because he is a living testament that anyone can face their own summit,” Banzon said. “He has shown us that through properly nourishing the body and building up strength, everyone can go after their dreams — a pursuit that Century Tuna has always championed.”
Panganiban admitted he only reached out for support five days before flying out for the climb. Despite the short notice, Century Tuna readily stepped in.
“I’m blessed and honored to be supported by Century Tuna even though I only asked for their help five days before I went to Mt. Everest. They didn’t think twice and just supported my dream,” he said.
Before fully embracing mountaineering, Panganiban worked as a software engineer. Eventually, he shifted gears and started his own business distributing healthy produce to restaurants across Metro Manila — a move that gave him the freedom to pursue his passion.
His Everest ascent was the result of years of disciplined training and lifestyle changes, from enduring high-altitude sickness and oxygen depletion to building physical and mental resilience.
“You have to be comfortable in being uncomfortable,” he said. “So every day, we made sure that our bodies were in the right condition. I made sure my body and mind were ready for the push.”
Panganiban credited his go-to trail meal — Century Tuna Hot and Spicy with saltine crackers — as his reliable source of protein and energy during training and the expedition itself.
Panganiban’s journey embodies Century Tuna’s ‘Fit for Any Role’ campaign, which celebrates multifaceted definitions of fitness and strength. His climb, fueled by passion, purpose, and proper nutrition, represents what the brand sees as the modern image of endurance and achievement.
“Century Tuna challenges every Filipino to define their own summit,” Banzon added. “Whether it’s a fitness milestone, a personal goal, or a monumental accomplishment, being fit with Century Tuna means being ready to take on the challenge.” (with reports from Aldrine Benitez)
