Filipino mountaineer Engr. Philipp “PJ” Santiago II, cousin of renowned journalist Emil Sumangil, passed away while attempting to reach the summit of Mt. Everest on May 14. He was 45 years old and part of the Snowy Everest Expedition 2025.
According to a report from Himalayan Times, PJ passed away at Camp IV, while preparing for the summit push. The exact cause of his death is still being investigated.
Bodhraj Bhandari, Managing Director of Snowy Horizon Treks, said that steps were being taken to lower his body to the base camp. Despite the incident, other members of the group continued their climb the next day.
The Department of Tourism of Nepal confirmed that this is the first recorded death of a foreign climber this Everest season.
The Santiago family issued a statement through Sumangil's account: “Our family requests prayers for the soul of our beloved Engr. Philipp PJ Santiago II.” They added, “Our prayers continue for the safety of Karl Miguel Santiago.” The family requests that their private time of mourning be respected. Thank you very much for your understanding and prayers.
