KM Reyes: First Filipino honored in "The Explorers Club 50”

KM Reyes, executive director of the Centre for Sustainability PH (CS), made history as the first Filipino named to The Explorers Club 50 (EC50), recognizing individuals making significant contributions to science and exploration. Members of The Explorers Club have pioneered historic firsts, from reaching the North and South Poles to the summit of Everest and the surface of the moon.

DEDICATED CONSERVATION CAMPAIGNER KM Reyes, executive director of the Centre for Sustainability PH, is the first Filipino named to The Explorers Club 50. PHOTO FROM CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABILITY PH

As a conservation campaigner and expedition leader, KM has dedicated her career to preserving the Philippines' natural resources. Under her leadership, CS has worked to protect the country's last three percent of pristine rainforest, spearheading the establishment of Cleopatra's Needle Critical Habitat — the Philippines' largest critical habitat at 41,350 hectares — uniting local and international stakeholders in conservation.

CS also formed the Southeast Asia coalition 30x30SEA, successfully advocating for the Philippines' commitment to protect 30 percent of land and water by 2030 under the UN Biodiversity Convention. The organization is now working to establish Sultan Peak as a protected area, part of a broader plan to conserve all unprotected key biodiversity areas in Palawan.

"With this recognition comes a greater responsibility," Reyes said. "Protecting Sultan Peak is urgent — not just for biodiversity, but for the indigenous Tagbanua communities who have safeguarded it for generations."

Her recognition as the first Filipino in EC50 inspires future generations, highlighting the crucial role of youth and women in conservation.