Dr. Riza Rasco, the inspiring leader and co-founder of the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE), has made history in an awe-inspiring achievement—becoming the first Filipino to visit all 203 United Nations Member States and Non-United Nations Independent States, as well as all 82 provinces in the Philippines!

February 20, 2025 – Dr. Riza Rasco, crossing the Chinese border into Rason, North Korea

Her latest milestone came with her arrival in Rason, North Korea—an achievement more than five years in the making after the country’s borders were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This accomplishment is particularly special, marking the final chapter of a journey that has spanned over years of determination, patience, and passion for global exploration. With this remarkable feat, Dr. Rasco now holds the prestigious titles of UN Master by NomadMania (for completing all 193 UN member countries) and Philippine Travel Master by the Philippine Global Explorers (for exploring all 82 provinces of the Philippines).

Dr. Rasco’s travels have earned her a place among the elite—currently ranked among the Top 30 female travelers worldwide by NomadMania and the Top 20 female travelers globally by Most Traveled People (MTP). She is one of the most well-traveled Filipinos ever, with her inspiring adventures chronicled by major publications such as National Geographic, Forbes, The Diarist, Outside, and the Lifestyle.inq.

“This journey, like those of trailblazers Odette Ricasa, Luisa Yu, and Kach Umandap, is about so much more than travel. It’s about breaking barriers, dreaming big, and showing every Filipino that the world is within reach—if you’re brave enough to pursue it.”

Dr. riza rasco

| READ: Odette Ricasa: First Filipino to Travel to All Countries in the World

But Dr. Rasco’s journey isn’t just about visiting every corner of the globe—it’s also about making a lasting impact. Beyond her incredible travel achievements, she’s a renowned scientist, inventor, entrepreneur, author, and nonprofit leader. Her groundbreaking work in genetic engineering and molecular biology has earned her widespread acclaim.

Before co-founding the Philippine Global Explorers, Dr. Rasco was the visionary founder of Explore Africa for Impact, a social enterprise aimed at boosting tourism in Africa while giving back to local communities. Through this initiative, 100% of the profits went directly into supporting educational programs, vocational training, and empowering women in Africa.

| READ: Luisa Yu: Meet the 79-year-old Filipina who has traveled to all 193 countries in the world

Later, she co-founded the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE), a nonprofit organization that connects Filipinos from around the world to foster initiatives in education, heritage preservation, environmental conservation, and local tourism in the Philippines. Under her leadership, PGE has grown into the largest national travel club globally, boasting over 1,400 members.

Dr. Rasco is passionate about the role travelers play in uplifting their native countries, believing deeply in the power of global exploration to create positive change. She credits her success to the transformative power of education, which she sees as her “passport to the world”—a belief that has opened countless doors and allowed her to live her dream of traveling the world.

| READ: PGE Celebrates Kach Umandap’s Journey to All 195 UN Countries and UN Observer States

Dr. Rasco’s monumental achievement stands as a beacon of perseverance, passion, and the Filipino spirit. Her story is one of boundless curiosity and unwavering determination—an inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark on the world.

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES, CONTACT: Dr. Riza Rasco at me***@ri******.com and Whatsapp +1 302 358 8990