President Marcos Recognises 3 Pinoys Who Visited All 193 UN Countries

What does it take to travel to every country in the world? A sense of adventure, a lot of determination, and apparently, a Filipino passport.

Last week, something amazing happened at Malacañang Palace. President Bongbong Marcos met with three Filipino travellers who pulled off the ultimate flex — they’ve officially visited all 193 United Nations member countries. Yes, all of them.

As someone who spends a lot of time browsing flights, planning dream itineraries, and daydreaming about life on the road, this news hit me right in the wanderlust. These three travellers have done what most of us only write on our vision boards — and they did it while proudly repping the Philippines.

Also read: Luisa Yu: 80-Year-Old Filipina Travelled 193 Countries in the World

Meet the ultimate Pinoy globetrotters

Image credit: MANILA BULLETIN | FB page

Let’s talk about the legends themselves:

Odette Ricasa

Image credit: Odette Aquitania Ricasa | FB page

She’s the first Filipino to ever visit all 193 UN countries. Let that sink in. From bustling cities to remote villages, she’s been there. She's not just ticking off a list — she's living proof that it's never too late to chase big dreams.

Luisa Yu

Image credit: Luisa Yu | Official Instagram

She’s officially the oldest Pinay to do it, and honestly, she’s pure goals. Luisa reminds us that the adventure doesn’t stop after a certain age — if anything, it gets better. She’s out there proving that wanderlust has no deadline.

Kach Medina Umandap

Image credit: Kach Medina Umandap | FB page

You might know her from her blog Two Monkeys Travel, but now she’s made history as the youngest Filipino to complete the list. Her journey started as a backpacker and turned into a worldwide quest. If anyone's living the Gen Z travel dream, it’s her.

The three travellers were joined by Donalito “Dondon” Bales, the founder of Filipino World Travelers, a community of Pinoys who are all about exploring the world. He’s also the author of Galà: Adventures of the Most Well-Traveled Filipinos, which features the stories of these three and more. He gave the President a copy during the visit — imagine having your travel story handed over in Malacañang!

A proud moment for Filipino travellers everywhere

Image credit: MANILA BULLETIN | FB page

Also read: How Gen Z Is Redefining Travel in the Social Media Era

During the courtesy call, the travellers shared their favourite experiences abroad, and President Marcos was quick to point out something we already know: Filipinos are loved wherever we go. “Kahit saan tayo pumunta, gusto tayo,” he said. “We create nice communities. Nagtutulungan talaga.”

That hit different. Because it’s not just about travelling for the 'gram. It’s about showing up in the world with heart, kindness, and that uniquely Filipino warmth. Whether it’s offering help to strangers, joining local festivals, or cooking adobo for new friends — that Pinoy spirit always finds a way to shine.

So, what now?

Image credit: MANILA BULLETIN | FB page

Hearing stories like this makes you wonder — if they did it, what’s stopping us?

Sure, maybe not all of us can pack up and travel the world full-time (yet), but their stories are a reminder that travel doesn’t always have to be impossible. Start with one destination. Book that seat sale. Explore your own backyard. Learn from other cultures. Connect with people. Who knows? Your own version of “every country” might look different, but just as epic.

These three Filipino travellers have raised the bar, and honestly? We're all cheering them on. Their journey isn’t just a personal win — it’s a win for every Filipino who dreams of seeing the world.

And if you’re already planning your next trip after reading this, same. See you out there.