Scientist makes history as 1st Filipino to reach 3rd deepest spot on Earth

Dr. Deo Florence Onda made history as the first Filipino to reach the 34,100 feet Emden Deep, the third deepest spot on Earth, on Tuesday.

According to Joselito Membrot, crew member of the DSSV Pressure Drop, Dr. Onda reached the surface of the Emden Deep around 10:35 a.m.

In a Facebook video shared by Membrot, the rest of the crew can be seen celebrating as the Filipino scientist set his foot down at 10,045 meters deep.

Dr. Onda,  microbial oceanographer, went on the expedition with Victor Vescovo, the current record holder of the deepest manned descent in the Marianas Trench in 2019.

According to University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute, part of their goals is to wave the Philippine Flag, “highlighting that it is an integral part of our nation’s heritage.”

“This endeavor can spark interest and passion for many other young Filipinos who would want to make a career in the sciences and bring more attention to the protection, preservation and conservation of the Philippine environment.”

They started the voyage from the port of Guam on March 15 through the DSSV Drop, the only marine vessel capable of carrying humans and diving repeatedly to the deepest parts of the world’s oceans.

The Emden Deep Expedition is initiated by private organization Caladan Oceanic, which Vescovo owns. — Franchesca Viernes/LA, GMA News