NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Filipino Climber Dies On Mt. Everest In Season's First Tragedy
Photo credit: Karl Miguel Santiago
A heartbreaking loss has struck the mountaineering world—and the Philippines—after 45-year-old Filipino climber Engr. Philipp PJ Santiago II died at Mt. Everest’s Camp IV last night while preparing for his summit push.
According to Bodhraj Bhandari, Managing Director of Snowy Horizon Treks, Santiago passed away shortly after reaching the high-altitude Camp IV. He was part of the Mountaineering Association of Krishnanagar–Snowy Everest Expedition 2025. Bhandari confirmed that other members of the team proceeded with their summit attempt earlier this morning, while efforts are currently underway to bring Santiago’s body down to base camp.
The exact cause of his death has not yet been determined.
This marks the first recorded death of a foreign climber on Mt. Everest this season. Prior to this, two Sherpa support staff who had fallen ill at base camp died after being brought to HAMS Hospital for treatment.
In a heartfelt post, broadcast journalist Emil Sumangil shared the devastating news:
“Our family is asking for prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of our beloved Engr. Philipp PJ Santiago II. We also continue to pray for the safety and well-being of Karl Miguel Santiago during this difficult time.”
“The family respectfully requests privacy as we grieve and process these events. Your understanding, support, and prayers are deeply appreciated.”
As the climbing season on Everest continues, this tragic incident is a stark reminder of the risks involved in high-altitude expeditions. Our thoughts are with the Santiago family and the rest of the team navigating this loss on the world’s highest peak.
According to Bodhraj Bhandari, Managing Director of Snowy Horizon Treks, Santiago passed away shortly after reaching the high-altitude Camp IV. He was part of the Mountaineering Association of Krishnanagar–Snowy Everest Expedition 2025. Bhandari confirmed that other members of the team proceeded with their summit attempt earlier this morning, while efforts are currently underway to bring Santiago’s body down to base camp.
The exact cause of his death has not yet been determined.
This marks the first recorded death of a foreign climber on Mt. Everest this season. Prior to this, two Sherpa support staff who had fallen ill at base camp died after being brought to HAMS Hospital for treatment.
In a heartfelt post, broadcast journalist Emil Sumangil shared the devastating news:
“Our family is asking for prayers for the eternal repose of the soul of our beloved Engr. Philipp PJ Santiago II. We also continue to pray for the safety and well-being of Karl Miguel Santiago during this difficult time.”
“The family respectfully requests privacy as we grieve and process these events. Your understanding, support, and prayers are deeply appreciated.”
As the climbing season on Everest continues, this tragic incident is a stark reminder of the risks involved in high-altitude expeditions. Our thoughts are with the Santiago family and the rest of the team navigating this loss on the world’s highest peak.
May 16, 2025
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