We study ancient maps, symbols, and legends to uncover the truth behind historical treasures buried across the Philippines.
Equipped with modern technology and trained explorers, THAPI leads safe, legal, and strategic treasure expeditions nationwide.
Our mission goes beyond discovery — we protect cultural heritage sites and promote responsible treasure hunting.
We guide aspiring treasure hunters through legal and ethical practices, ensuring compliance with national and international laws.
We record and publish verified findings to preserve stories, artifacts, and national heritage for future generations.
THAPI welcomes researchers and explorers from around the world to join our mission of uncovering history beneath the earth.
Founded in 1970 by Albert Umali, the Treasure Hunters Association of the Philippines (THAPI) began as a small community of passionate explorers who believed that the Philippines held more than just natural beauty — it held buried stories of gold, history, and courage.
During the post-war years, Albert Umali and a group of local adventurers started uncovering old maps, mysterious landmarks, and tales of Yamashita’s Treasure, sparking a movement that would soon grow nationwide. What started as a group of curious diggers turned into a registered organization devoted to responsible treasure hunting, historical preservation, and cultural discovery.
For over seven decades, THAPI has united thousands of Filipino and international treasure hunters under one goal: to search, study, and safeguard the country’s hidden heritage.
The association has documented hundreds of expedition sites across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — each revealing stories of ancient trade, wartime mysteries, and forgotten relics buried beneath Philippine soil.
Today, THAPI continues Albert Umali’s legacy by promoting safe, legal, and environmentally responsible treasure hunting. Through education, research, and community outreach, the organization inspires a new generation to explore history with respect and scientific integrity.
THAPI’s mission goes beyond gold — it’s about uncovering truth, connecting history, and preserving the Filipino spirit of adventure for the world to see.
“Thanks to THAPI’s training, I now understand the importance of preserving history while searching for treasures. It’s not just about gold — it’s about heritage.”— James Roldan, Licensed Treasure Hunter
Licensed Treasure Hunter
“THAPI helped me turn my passion into purpose. I learned how to treasure hunt legally and safely while discovering real historical sites in the Philippines.”— Rica Dela Cruz, Member since 1990
Member since 1990
“Being part of THAPI feels like joining a family of explorers. We share knowledge, maps, and stories — and it’s always exciting to uncover the past together.”
— Maria Santos, Field Researcher
Field Researcher
“I joined THAPI out of curiosity, but I stayed because of the knowledge I gained. They taught me everything — from reading old maps to using modern detectors responsibly.”— Liza Mendoza, Archaeology Enthusiast
Archaeology Enthusiast
Are treasure hunts real? From lost wartime gold and buried relics to modern games and collectibles, treasure hunting has captured human imagination for centuries. In this guide by the Treasure Hunter Association of the Philippines Inc. (THAPI), we answer the most common questions about treasure hunting—what’s real, what’s legal, and what’s purely for fun.
