Are you looking to volunteer in the Philippines? How about volunteering on what is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world? An island that offers some of the world’s best diving, beaches for relaxing, mountains for hiking and a great spot to island hop from? A peaceful place where you can give back on one of four worthwhile projects? Does that sound like the perfect way for you to travel with meaning? Then the IVHQ Philippines program on Palawan Island is a volunteering adventure that you can’t miss out on.
Palawan is known as the ‘last ecological frontier’ of the Philippines and when you volunteer with IVHQ’s independent local team based in Aborlan on Palawan Island you can choose to roll up your sleeves on the Environmental project and help ensure that they keep the title. Other volunteer work in the Philippines includes: Teaching, Childcare and Construction & Renovation projects - meaning there really is something for everyone.
But if you still need a reason to pack your bags and experience the Philippines in real life then here are our Top 7 reasons why you should volunteer in the Philippines…
1. The People
The Filipino people are friendly, happy and exceptionally welcoming. From the moment you arrive at Puerto Princesa airport, you’ll be greeted by beaming smiles from our local team. During your one week orientation, you’ll be introduced to local facilities, weekend travel opportunities and the staff you’ll be working with at your volunteer placement. You’ll quickly learn that all the locals you meet are just as welcoming as the local team and they will have you feeling at home within days.
2. Authentic Experiences
Volunteers live and work within a local village in Aborlan and get to experience village life first hand. If you are open to living and working on the beach surrounded by people eager to share their culture, then this is definitely the program for you!
3. The Natural Beauty
Over your weekends you will discover why nature lovers flock to the Philippines. The islands of the Philippines are simply stunning. Nothing compares to the crystal clear waters that offer incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities, along with the awesome hiking adventures up any of the Philippines’ 37 volcanoes, the sparkling waterfalls and a diverse range of wildlife (including the cute Philippine Tarsier - the smallest monkey in the world).
4. Weekend Adventures
Air travel is also relatively cheap in the Philippines, so why not jump on a flight to bustling Manila for some shopping, the famous El Nido or any of the dozens of stunning locations that the Philippines has to offer? You don’t need to make plans just yet; just wait until you arrive in the Philippines where our local team will be happy to introduce you to all of these fabulous weekend options during your program orientation.
5. It’s Cheap!
Remember that your accommodation and meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) are covered in your program fees, meaning you’re in for a very cheap stay. Whether it be bottled water, pastries from a bakery or a cup of coffee, in the Philippines you can make a little bit go a long way.
6. No Language Barriers
The majority of the population in the Philippines speak English and it is the preferred language for government documents and schooling. If it’s your first time volunteering or traveling abroad, this is a major advantage in ensuring an easy stay. The locals still appreciate your efforts in practicing the Filipino language (a simple greeting of ‘Kumasta’ should score you some points), but locals will commonly use English in day-to-day conversations with you.
As a Teaching or Childcare volunteer in the Philippines, you’ll have the opportunity to assist the local children in developing essential English skills at an early age, which in turn will assist them throughout their education and as they enter the working world later in life.
7. The Location
As an IVHQer in the Philippines relaxing after a busy, and often hot, day’s work is easy! The beach is your backyard, with the volunteer accommodation located right on the water. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!
A life changing experience is waiting for you! Check out the volunteer in the Philippines page for more inspiration and information on becoming a volunteer in the Philippines. We look forward to welcoming you to one of the friendliest countries in the world!
