At more than 8,000 meters above sea level, survival depends on preparation, teamwork, and sheer willpower.
It’s in this unforgiving environment that a handful of Filipinos have made history—and now, their stories take center stage at R.O.X. (Recreational Outdoor Exchange) in Bonifacio Global City.
Running from October 8 to 19, the photo exhibit ‘Ating Tugatog: Filipinos on the World’s Highest Peaks’ celebrates the courage, discipline, and resilience of the country’s most remarkable mountaineers who have reached the summit of Mount Everest and other 8,000-meter giants.
The exhibit features 40 rare, breathtaking photographs captured by the climbers themselves during their expeditions—documenting moments of struggle, triumph, and survival in one of Earth’s harshest environments.
Among those honored are five Filipino mountaineers who have carried the nation’s flag to the world’s roof: Romi Garduce, the first Filipino to summit Mount Everest (2006) and to complete the Seven Summits; Carina Dayondon and Noelle Penetrante, the first Filipinas to conquer Everest in 2007; and Miguel Mapalad and Jeno Panganiban, the new-generation climbers who summited Everest in 2025.
“These climbers began as dreamers—ordinary Filipinos with an extraordinary vision: to stand atop the world’s highest peaks and prove that courage knows no altitude,” the exhibit text reads.
Each photograph tells a story of perseverance and purpose—moments when the clouds met determination and the impossible became reality.
Mary Anne Oriondo, R.O.X. Marketing Manager, shared that the exhibit reflects the core values that drive both explorers and the brand itself.
“Every expedition requires meticulous planning, absolute trust in your gear, and immense personal resilience,” she said. “By supporting the journey of these climbers and celebrating their historical achievements, R.O.X. aims to inspire every Filipino to push their limits—whether that’s on a local trail or the world’s highest mountains.”
Meet the Filipino trailblazers
Romi Garduce – The Pinoy Trailblazer. In 2006, Garduce became the first Filipino to stand on top of Mount Everest and later the first to complete the Seven Summits. His methodical discipline and deep respect for nature have made him a pillar in Philippine mountaineering.
Carina Dayondon & Noelle Penetrante – The First Filipina Summiteers. Alongside Janet Belarmino, they became the first Filipinas to reach Everest’s summit in 2007. Dayondon would later complete the Seven Summits in 2018, further establishing her legacy as one of Asia’s greatest female climbers.
Jeno Panganiban & Miguel Mapalad – The New Generation of 8K Conquerors. In May 2025, the duo made history by successfully summiting Everest, ushering in a new era for Filipino climbers. Both are now part of the Philippine 14 Peaks Expedition Team, aiming to conquer all fourteen of the world’s 8,000-meter mountains.
Beyond being a chronicle of high-altitude achievements, ‘Ating Tugatog’ embodies the values of preparation, perseverance, and purpose—qualities deeply rooted in Filipino identity.
R.O.X. continues to be the outfitter of choice for adventurers, providing globally trusted, high-performance outdoor gear that empowers individuals to reach new heights—both on the mountains and beyond.
Visit ‘Ating Tugatog: Filipinos on the World’s Highest Peaks’ on October 8–19, 2025 at R.O.X. Philippines, 3rd Floor, Bonifacio High Street, BGC. Experience the stories, courage, and triumphs of the Filipinos who proved that no peak is too high when one climbs with heart. (with reports from Loyd Pino)
