Who says the Philippine passport can’t unlock the world? A 36-year-old Pinay digital nomad just became the youngest Filipino to visit all 193 United Nations-recognized countries and two observer states relying entirely on her Philippine passport.
Kach Medina Umandap wrapped up her historic travel on January 6 in Sudan after hurdling major roadblocks like visa restrictions tied to a low-ranked passport.
Currently, the Philippine passport sits at 79th on the Guide Passport Ranking Index. But still with a Philippine passport, she was able to explore much of the world. “This is proof that being Filipino is not a limitation when it comes to exploring the world,” said Kach in a report by Global Filipino Magazine.
She hopped on a plane for her first international flight in 2009 when she flew to the Middle East as an OFW. But in 2013, she took a leap of faith, leaving her corporate job to become a full-time digital nomad.
“After 12 years of challenges, sacrifices, and unforgettable experiences, I finally made it to my last country: Sudan! My journey was never easy, but I held on to the belief that my dream was possible,” said Kach, who hails from San Pablo City, Laguna.
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To bankroll her travels, Kach co-founded the travel blog, Two Monkeys Travel, landed sponsorships from airlines and tourism boards, and networked with government officials to promote travel.
Her achievement was officially verified by NomadMania, touted as the “Guinness World of Records” for travelers. This is particularly important to her because only 500 individuals have been verified by the organization so far.
“Today after getting verified by @nomadmania with my travel achievement, I’m beyond proud and grateful to announce that I’m the first woman from all developing nations (low passport index country) to visit all 195 UN countries using only my Philippine passport!” she said.
“Thank you Lord sa pagbless sa buhay ko.. all in your right timing! The best is yet to come,” she added.
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Kach returned home on January 14 to a warm welcome at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, capping off a journey that proved no dream is too big for a determined Pinay with a Philippine passport.
