Cebuano Completes 357 km Solo Walk across Cebu Island in Just 15 Days

Cebuano Completes 357‑km Solo Walk across Cebu Island in Just 15 Days

Cebu City, July 27, 2025 — A 31‑year‑old Cebuano adventurer has made headlines this week after trekking the entire length of Cebu Island on foot, from Daanbantayan in the north to Santander in the south — a journey totalling 357.66 kilometres and completed in just 15 days.

Kevin Maglinte, a content creator based in Talamban, Cebu City, logged the feat using Strava, widely used by runners, bikers, and hikers to accurately record activity distances.

Beginning his journey in late June and continuing into early July, Maglinte kicked off the expedition amidst the mountainous terrain of northern Cebu. On day one alone, he covered over 40 kilometres. Reflecting on that experience, he remarked, “The worst I experienced was reaching 9 p.m. on that first day because I overestimated myself. And everything was so far.”

Recognizing the physical toll of the rough terrain, Maglinte abandoned his initial mountain route plans in favor of navigating by road. He carried a 15‑kilogram backpack and encountered numerous challenges along the way, including unexpected weather and aggressive dogs. “The dogs in the north are really aggressive. They’ll chase you. I almost got bitten,” he shared with a laugh.

One particularly harrowing moment occurred while camping near a lake in Pinamungajan town. After pitching his tent and settling in for the night, Maglinte heard unusual footsteps. “I thought many people would camp there since it was Friday. I ate, rested and lay down. Then there were footsteps.… Then something seemed to throw something at my tent. I was surrounded by grass.” Unable to sleep, he pressed on the following day despite fatigue.

Maglinte alternated between makeshift sleeping arrangements—such as camping at retention ponds or in barangay (village) halls—and more expensive lodging options, depending on availability and weather conditions. “From camping and sleeping in barangay halls to booking expensive resorts, he did it all because he had no choice.”

For Maglinte, the journey served as both a physical challenge and a mental reset. “For me, it clears my mind. I don’t know if others can relate, but it’s like a form of meditation because you don’t have anything to think about, or you just let your brain think on its own.”

To would‑be long‑distance hikers, he advises thorough training and investing in proper gear—particularly quality trekking shoes—as essential preparation.

When asked whether he would attempt another similar journey, Maglinte said without hesitation: “Absolutely. But training is needed. I want to go through the mountains next time. I want to experience what I want to experience.”

Maglinte is no stranger to high‑altitude hiking. His previous climbs include Mount Guiting‑Guiting in Romblon, Mount Apo in Mindanao, Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon, Mount Pulag in Benguet, Mount Mantalingahan in Palawan, and Mount Ijen in Indonesia.

Thanks to his adventure content, Maglinte has built a sizeable online following—around 80,000 on Facebook, with growing numbers on YouTube.