AFTER conquering the 9,262-ft Mount Apo in just six hours, 27-year-old Filipina mountaineer Carla Kaya Tumaliuan is setting her sights next on Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain.
To be physically prepared for the Everest climb, Ms. Tumaliuan trains herself through regular climbs, crampons training, bouldering, running, and practices of her knot-tying skills. As part of her training, she did a trail run at the country’s highest peak with her two friends and their guide.
Ms. Tumaliuan’s admiration of nature’s unadulterated beauty and her desire to share it with others inspired her to become a mountaineer. During her Mount Apo hike, she reached the summit through geothermal company Energy Development Corp.’s (EDC) Executive Trail, which passes through EDC’s geothermal reservation.
“To be honest, it was the best climb and the best trail I ever had. I did not expect the trail to be that beautiful. I really saw how EDC took care of the trail and preserved the nature there. I was in awe even of the tree nursery they have there. I would like to climb again using the same trail,” Ms. Tumaliuan said.
“I am really grateful towards the Kidapawan Tourism Office, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and EDC. All of them helped make our climb possible, and they all cheered us on during the climb,” she added.
Ms. Tumaliuan also shared that while her training is exhausting, the financial aspect of her preparation is equally challenging. She is currently looking for groups and individuals to help support her Everest bid.
“Climbing Everest is every mountaineer’s dream. I’m not asking sponsors to just support me. In sponsoring my Everest bet, I want to share my blessings by sending children to school and to complete their studies. If I can make it to Everest, I hope these kids can feel like they can achieve anything,” she said.
For parties interested to provide logistical and financial support to help Kaya Tumaliuan’s training and Mt. Everest climb, contact her at (0999) 524 6736 or itsmekayathegreat@gmail.com.
