In a world full of sights and possibilities, few have dared to conquer most of the world, and even fewer have succeeded. Yet, for Dr. Riza Rasco, who holds a Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology, a Filipino adventurer and trailblazer, it was a mission 30 years in the making. In February 2025, she cemented her name in history as the first Filipino to set foot in every country on Earth, with North Korea as her final stop.
Journey to the Center of Curiosity and Education
Rasco’s passion for travel started at a young age, driven by an insatiable curiosity about cultures beyond the Philippines. But for her, travel was more than just crossing borders – it was about expanding knowledge.
“I’ve been saying education was my passport to the world, and that journey is proof that education opens doors sometimes even to the entire world,” she shared in an interview with GMA News.
This philosophy guided her through three decades of travel, allowing her to navigate foreign lands with confidence. Equipped with a solid academic background, she used education as her key to unlocking new experiences and opportunities.
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
Throughout her global journey, Rasco immersed herself in diverse traditions, from the bustling souks of Morocco to the icy landscapes of Antarctica. She learned new languages, participated in local customs, and forged connections with people from all walks of life.
Her final destination, North Korea, was no exception – she explored the country’s highest peak, engaged with children, and experienced traditional culinary practices like making kimchi and traditional rice cakes “chaltteok”.
“There are so many I’ve loved and enjoyed in different ways. No place is perfect, but each has something unique to offer. Whether it’s breathtaking landscapes, warm people, rich history, amazing food, or exciting activities, the key is to appreciate and enjoy what makes each destination special,” Rasco said.
Her achievements have earned her global recognition; in Philippine Pinoy History, Rasco was recognized as one of the top 100 Filipino travelers in the world and is the fourth Filipino to visit all 193 UN member countries.
Dr. Rasco also ranks among the top 30 female travelers worldwide according to NomadMania and is listed in the top 20 by Most Traveled People (MTP), a testament to her unparalleled dedication to exploration.
Inspiring Beyond Borders
Beyond personal milestones, Rasco’s impact extends to the Filipino travel community. As a co-founder of the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE), she advocates for Filipinos to explore not just the world, but their own country’s 7,641 islands.
She visited all 82 Philippines provinces, proving that adventure is as much about appreciating one’s homeland as it is about venturing into the unknown.
Dr. Riza Rasco’s story is not just about setting foot in every nation for luxury or experience – it’s about fostering global understanding and celebrating cultural diversity. Her journey serves as a reminder that travel is more than a checklist – it is a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, connection, and self-discovery.
Rasco challenges the notion that travel is only for the privileged, emphasizing that with determination, resourcefulness, and an open mind, the world is within reach.
