Unveiling Kach Medina Umandap's Inspiring Journey: Career or Travel, Why Not Both?

Kach Medina Umandap stands as a testament to resilience and ambition, embodying a journey that transcends borders. In 2012, she was immersed in the daily grind of quality assurance work in Kuwait, tallying days on a contract filled with expectations familiar to many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs): remittance, renewal, and routine. Fast forward a little over a decade, and she’s not just launching a book but a vision—a narrative that connects her roots to a broader horizon. On an upcoming Thursday night, Umandap will step onto the Main Stage of the SMX Convention Center in Manila to unveil her first traditionally published book with Penguin Random House SEA, aptly titled *Career or Travel, Why Not Both?* This work aims to bridge the gap between her time spent in a cubicle and a life marked by travel across all 195 UN member states on a Philippine passport. For those navigating the balancing act of career and adventure, this book offers a unique perspective and actionable insights. Umandap’s own site, Two Monkeys Travel Group, is where readers can explore not just her story but the practicalities involved in attending the Manila International Book Fair (MIBF) from September 10 to 13, 2026. This includes everything from ticket details to how to navigate the bustling city, making it a comprehensive resource for potential attendees. ### Who is Kach Medina Umandap? Here’s a brief snapshot: - **Name:** Kach Medina Umandap - **Origin:** Hailing from Laguna, Philippines, born in 1988, she’s a proud alumna of the University of the Philippines Los Baños. - **Career Beginnings:** Her professional journey began as an OFW in Kuwait and later in Kurdistan, Iraq, where she held administrative and quality assurance positions. - **Travel Record:** Umandap became the first Filipina to visit all 195 UN member and observer states solely on a Philippine passport, completing this feat in January 2025. - **Upcoming Book:** *Career or Travel, Why Not Both?*, slated for release on September 10, 2026. - **MIBF Appearance:** Launch event scheduled for Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM at the Main Stage of the SMX Convention Center Manila. - **Entry to Fair:** General entry is PHP 50; discounts available for students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. ### From Kuwait Office to World Traveler Umandap’s story is not just about wanderlust; it’s rooted in the practical decisions that initially grounded her. The OFW path she chose was a sensible one, providing stability and a predictable income that many Filipino families rely on. After fulfilling her contracts, she decided to pursue a different life. In 2013, she took the plunge, quitting her job to backpack through Asia. Her narrative reflects a thoughtfulness many aspiring nomads overlook—she didn’t abandon her financial security; instead, she built a new one by teaching English in Vietnam and exploring Southeast Asia. Her blog, launched in October 2014, marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial endeavor, allowing her to share her travel experiences while generating income. ### The Argument of *Career or Travel* Umandap’s book tackles a pressing question familiar to many Filipinos: “Career or travel?” Traditionally posed as a dilemma by family during gatherings, her answer is encapsulated in a framework she refers to as the Borderless Ladder. This approach encourages readers to earn first and create a career tailored to their lifestyle aspirations—rather than one that confines them to a traditional office setting. Describing her book as one she wished had existed during her own journey, Umandap targets Filipinos currently in jobs tied to remittance, providing a blueprint for balancing career ambitions with travel desires. This book is more than just another travelogue; it’s a guide tailored explicitly for those who often find themselves caught between societal expectations and personal aspirations. Umandap's first major publishing venture represents a significant evolution from her self-published works, signaling her broader commitment to reaching an audience that needs encouragement to redefine their own limits. ### Achieving Travel on a Philippine Passport Completing her journey across 195 countries stands out as a remarkable achievement, especially considering the challenges that come with a Philippine passport. Unlike more powerful passports, obtaining visas for numerous countries meant wading through layers of bureaucracy and rejection. Umandap’s experience underscores not only her tenacity but highlights the logistical nightmare many Filipinos face in their pursuit of global exploration. As her readers await the launch of her book, Umandap continues to chart a path not just for herself but for others aspiring to break free from conventional career definitions. She serves as a powerful reminder that success can be defined in numerous ways, often through unexpected journeys that lead to profound personal growth.What’s evident here is that this event isn’t just another launch; it’s an opportunity to interact with a fellow Filipino who has transcended the ordinary. Kach Medina Umandap’s journey from Kuwait to becoming a Penguin author speaks volumes about resilience and determination. If you’re in Metro Manila, attending this launch isn’t merely about the book; it’s about connecting with a story that could inspire you in your own path.

Timing is Everything

If you plan to experience the excitement of Kach’s book launch, aim to arrive mid-afternoon on September 10. The event kicks off at 6:30 PM, and trust me, waiting until 6:15 PM will put you smack in the middle of the notorious EDSA rush hour. It’s a perfect storm of traffic and eager book enthusiasts, so don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Book Pricing and Access

The signed pre-order for Kach's book is pegged at PHP 1,027, a worthy price for a unique memoir. Just be prepared for the retail pricing to shift after the launch, as Penguin Random House SEA and local retailers will set those numbers. Interestingly, entry for teachers with valid IDs is free, while everyone else pays just PHP 50 or PHP 35. Those interested should keep an eye on giveaways by National Book Store to snag entry passes ahead of time.

Convenient Location

You might also be wondering about the venue's proximity to the airport. SMX isn’t just conveniently located; it’s a rarity in Manila. Expect a travel time of about 15 to 25 minutes from NAIA, barring traffic hitches. For anyone flying in from Cebu or Davao, using this event as an excuse for a weekend in Manila is both logical and cost-effective, especially since September typically offers the lowest domestic airfare.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, attending this book launch is about more than just securing a signed copy. It's about celebrating a fellow Filipino’s remarkable achievement and drawing inspiration as you sit among like-minded individuals. Whether you’re local or traveling from afar, plan your trip wisely, arrive early, and be ready to engage with the story that Kach has to tell.