When we talk about Cebu, we often think of turquoise beaches, vibrant city life, and lechon that’s worth every calorie. But beyond the coastlines lies a raw, untamed Cebu that very few have ventured to explore—and one Cebuano made it his mission to change that.
Meet Jing Lavilles de Egurrola, a seasoned bushcraft practitioner and founder of the Camp Red Bushcraft and Survival Guild.
In 2017, Jing made history by becoming the first Filipino to complete a thru-hike of the entire Cebu Highlands Trail (CHT)—a rugged, off-the-beaten-path trail that cuts through the spine of Cebu Island from Santander in the south to Daanbantayan in the north.
A Journey Like No Other
Together with his partner Jonathaniel Apurado, Jing began the journey at Liloan Point in Santander and wrapped it up 26 days later at Bulalaqui Point in Daanbantayan.
The entire trail? A jaw-dropping 408.29 kilometers long. That’s more than just a hike—it’s a full-on odyssey.
The Cebu Highlands Trail isn’t your usual weekend trek. This trail takes you through a diverse range of terrains—remote villages, terraced farmlands, thick forests, jagged ridgelines, refreshing rivers, and hidden waterfalls.
It’s a Cebu that few get to see, but one that Jing wanted the world to know about.
Cebu: More Than Just Beaches
Jing’s mission wasn’t just personal. He had a greater vision: to showcase Cebu’s untapped landscapes and reposition the island as a prime destination for long-distance hiking and nature immersion.
Through his historic hike and continuous advocacy, he’s proving that adventure tourism in Cebu goes way beyond snorkeling and island hopping.
Want to Hike the CHT? You’ll Need a Guide
The Cebu Highlands Trail remains largely unmarked and wild—perfect for those seeking real adventure but definitely not for the unprepared.
Fortunately, Jing offers guideship services for those who want to take on the challenge.
With his expertise in bushcraft and survival, you won’t just hike the trail—you’ll experience it the way it was meant to be.
A Legacy in the Making
Jing Lavilles de Egurrola isn’t just a trailblazer—he’s redefining what it means to explore Cebu.
Through his efforts, more locals and travelers are discovering a side of the island that’s rugged, raw, and unbelievably beautiful.
If you’ve been craving a deeper kind of adventure, maybe it’s time to look inland, Sugboanons!
