Introduction Week Orientation: The Introduction Week is very popular among IVHQ volunteers. We recommend all volunteers take advantage of this week to gain a deeper understanding of the Filipino culture, a true appreciation of life in the Philippines and bond with fellow volunteers while also taking a cooking class, visiting a farm and touring local attractions. It’s also a great way to help settle the culture shock you can face when arriving in the Philippines.
Introduction Schedule:
Monday - Begin with an overview of the Philippines program, meet the local team, review general guidelines, and join a session on local culture and language. You’ll explore the community projects, take a walking tour of the area, and sort out your SIM card. In the afternoon, get involved with a hands-on activity at Nelson’s Farm, then end the day with a lively cultural night featuring music and interactive activities.
Tuesday - In the morning you will have the chance to join a Filipino cooking class where you will prepare three delicious meals. After lunch, you will take part in a Filipino language lesson to help communicate better with the locals who cannot speak or understand English.
Wednesday - You will be able to experience and see one of the beautiful waterfalls in Palawan, Estrella Falls. You will enjoy a picnic while you are there. After that you will visit a local market located in Narra town.
Thursday - You will take part in a creative workshop making hand fans and weaving nipa huts. Afterward, join a pottery class to craft your own keepsakes. Finish the evening with a lively karaoke night, singing and having fun with new friends.
Friday - After breakfast, volunteers will meet about the upcoming placements and receive the placement specific introduction. In the afternoon, volunteers will be working at their placements.
This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on the needs of the project, local weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances
Important notes:
- The Culture Week is offered as an extension to your program duration and it’s a comprehensive orientation that runs for the first 5 days of your stay. Once you complete the Culture Week, you’ll be ready to start volunteering on the following Monday. This means that if you want to volunteer for 2 weeks and you add the Culture Week to your itinerary, you’ll be hosted by the local team for a total of 3 weeks.
- The Culture Week only runs on the first and third Monday of each month so if this does not align with your program, you can join the Culture Week on the second week of your itinerary.
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