A non-government organization (NGO) worker was tied to a tree, doused in gasoline and set on fire by at least five unidentified men in Cebu City on Monday.

A police investigation suggested Daniel Uy, a former activist and member of an NGO, was taken to the mountain barangay of Sulon by the men, where he was horribly tortured.

Mr Uy was able to escape after the tree branch broke which he was tied to broke.

The former activist sustained burns to his body and hands – he is now being treated at the Cebu City Medical Centre.

Police say they have an ongoing investigation involving Mr Uy, however, they said they had received information that the victim had suicidal tendencies.

It is not yet known what organisation the victim worked for.