Filipino World Travelers: A Journey of Global Exploration and Cultural Pride
FWT empowers Filipino global explorers through world travel as a force for good, marking a year of historic achievements.
By
Dec 5, 2025
In January 2025, Kach Umandap made history by becoming the first Filipino to visit all 193 UN countries using solely a Philippine passport. This monumental achievement exemplifies the mission of Filipino World Travelers (FWT), a community of dedicated global explorers who use travel to inspire and support others, all while proudly carrying the flag of Filipino heritage.
From humble beginnings, FWT has quickly grown into the peak body for Filipino world travelers, earning recognition and respect on the international stage. Founded by Dondon Bales, FWT is committed to helping members reach their travel goals while fostering a spirit of learning, connection, and purposeful exploration. With leaders such as Bales, Luisa Yu, and Abigail Friedrich at the helm, FWT has become a beacon for those passionate about travel and cultural exchange.
A Year of Unprecedented Achievements
2025 has been nothing short of historic for FWT, with several significant milestones that have not only advanced the organization’s vision but also highlighted the incredible achievements of its members.
One of the year’s highlights was the FWT’s courtesy call with the President of the Philippines, where Bales presented the "Filipina Travel Legends", Odette Ricasa, the first Filipino to visit all countries; Luisa Yu, the oldest Filipino to do so; and Kach Umandap, who became the youngest and first Filipino to visit all 193 UN countries solely using a Philippine passport. The meeting underscored FWT’s role in promoting Filipino global exploration and its commitment to recognizing the contributions of its most accomplished members.
This recognition was further bolstered by the remarkable achievements of other FWT members. In September 2025, Glen Dalisay became the first Filipino man to visit all 193 UN countries, while at just 12 years old, Wyatt Maktrav became the youngest person ever to complete this feat in Europe, again using only a Philippine passport.
Another standout achievement for the community was the recognition of several FWT members at the 2025 NomadMania Travel Awards in November, often referred to as the "Oscars for World Travel." Yu won the prestigious Most Intrepid Traveler Award for 2025, joining an elite group of travelers. Additionally, Umandap was honored as a Finalist for the Most Purposeful Traveler Award, while Odette Ricasa’s “It’s All in the State of Mind” earned a Finalist nod for Best Travel Book. Maktrav and his mother, Kaila de los Reyes, were likewise celebrated as Finalists for the Biggest Low Passport Index Award — continuing a proud tradition of FWT excellence, following previous Finalists such as Umandap in 2022, Pia Montemayor in 2023, and Gean Tayone in 2024.
FWT’s Unique Approach to Global Exploration
What truly sets Filipino World Travelers apart is its merit-based approach to membership. Rather than relying on membership fees, FWT selects members based on their accomplishments, commitment to exploration, and the contributions they make to the community. This approach has helped create a tight-knit group of passionate individuals who share a common goal of using travel to bring people together and make a positive impact.
While some groups highlight regional, provincial, or local travel, FWT pursues a broader, bolder, and more globally ambitious mission. The organization encourages members to explore all corners of the globe, creating a truly international community that goes beyond Manila and the Philippines. With over 30 in-person meet-ups held across 20 cities worldwide in the past year, FWT's presence is felt on a truly global scale, supported by a diverse diaspora that spans continents.
Another distinguishing feature of FWT is its strategic partnerships with major global travel organizations. FWT works closely with several prominent travel networks such as Travel Massive, Travel Care Code, and Travelers Club of Türkiye to provide its members with access to invaluable resources, opportunities, and a platform to share their stories. FWT’s commitment to inclusivity and global travel verification also led to an exciting partnership with NomadMania, an organisation of more than 50,000 travelers known for tracking and verifying travel achievements across the world. This alliance further solidified FWT’s credibility as a leader in world travel documentation for Filipinos, empowering its members to receive Certificates of Achievement for major milestones such as visiting all seven continents or the Seven Wonders of the World.
The Power of Purposeful Travel
FWT is not just about checking off countries on a list. The organization deeply believes in the power of travel to foster cultural exchange, create meaningful connections, and inspire future generations. With initiatives like the FWT Travel Photo Contest and the launch of the original anthem "We Are Filipino World Travelers," FWT blends creativity and purpose in its activities. These programs not only celebrate the beauty of global exploration but also raise funds for social causes, such as FWT Member Jhett van Ruyven supporting underprivileged Filipino children through summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Additionally, FWT’s upcoming 2026 initiatives promise to take this sense of purpose even further. The organization is set to launch the FWT Travel Museum in Dumaguete City, Philippines, in late 2026. This museum will serve as a lasting tribute to the achievements of Filipino global explorers, preserving their stories and showcasing the cultural impact of their travels.
FWT’s Bold Vision for 2026
As FWT heads into 2026, the community has big plans for the future. The 3rd Anniversary celebrations will re-energize and strengthen FWT’s existing innovative programs for its members, including the World Travel Milestones Verification Program, virtual and in-person meet-ups, and its continued advocacy for sustainable travel. This continued growth will further cement FWT's role as the go-to community for Filipino world travelers.
One of the most exciting upcoming initiatives is the release of a new travel book co-authored by FWT’s global community. Scheduled for release alongside the 5th anniversary edition of "gala: Adventures of the Most Well-Traveled Filipinos," this book will showcase the journeys and accomplishments of Filipino travelers from all over the world, sharing their stories with the next generation of explorers.
FWT’s strong presence at major travel events, such as the 3rd Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok, will also ensure that the organization remains at the forefront of the global travel conversation. With prominent FWT members such as Umandap speaking at these events, the organization will continue to be a driving force for Filipino representation in the travel world.
Join the Movement
Filipino World Travelers isn’t just a travel community; it’s a movement. It’s about embracing the Filipino spirit of adventure, culture, and connection while making a global impact. Whether you’re a seasoned Filipino traveler or someone looking to embark on your first international journey, FWT offers the support, recognition, and camaraderie you need to make your travel goals a reality.
To learn more about becoming a member, explore FWT’s latest initiatives, or join their global community, visit Filipino World Travelers.
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For those interested in Filipino world travel or who want to be a part of a global network that celebrates cultural pride and the joys of exploration, Filipino World Travelers is the place to be. Join today and be a part of history.
