Volunteer in the Philippines

I didn't have big expectations going into this program, in the sense that I knew that I wouldn't change the world in such a short time. I wanted to explore a new part of the world and immerse myself in a different culture, keeping my heart open to anything new. What I didn't expect was to gain such an incredible new way of seeing and understanding the world and myself.

My advice for anyone who wants to do a volunteer programme would be to trust yourself and throw yourself into the deep water, as you will most likely find amazing new friends and new experiences you never even thought of, and coming out of it, hopefully, you will realise you are a different and better person than before.

I loved the fact that I got to do a bit of extra work outside of my program, which was doing a bit of disaster relief for the impacted community when Typhoon Yagi hit the Philippines. Palawan wasn't too badly affected, but there was a tree down on a family's home in which my group kindly assisted.

It was the best experience for my first time travelling. This is because I feel like I've made an impact on the community, made friends, had valuable experiences, instead of travelling just for the sake of being a "tourist" and going "sight-seeing". The only small regret I have was having the attitude of "trying it out" and only staying for 1 week. But even though my time was short, my foundation for future travel and volunteering seems pretty stable, learning many lessons for my next trip.

I've learned new things about a different culture, including a few basic phrases in Tagalog. I've also learned and developed new skills like planting mangroves and working with pupils whose first language isn't English. I would encourage anyone to volunteer in the Philippines for a few weeks, it is totally worth it.

Finishing my volunteering in the Philippines makes me think about all the people who don’t have as much as we do, yet they are still so grateful and happy with just the little things. They are always so happy and very friendly. It doesn’t matter who you are; they will always welcome you with open arms. I learned a lot from the people there and always try to help others. It fills your heart with love, and whenever I leave the volunteer work, my heart feels weak because you want to stay and help them, but eventually, you have to go back home.

All the people you meet while volunteering are incredible and amazing. It’s such a great experience, and I recommend it to everyone. This is my second time volunteering with IVHQ, and both times were amazing experiences that I would gladly repeat. I just want to say that everyone who comes to volunteer should have an open mind, eager to meet new people and learn about the culture, language, and more.

I became more confident about myself by joining this program. I am still 16 and I had never traveled by myself before this trip. I was very nervous about going to the Philippines on my own. However, the local team helped me so much and supported me when I needed help. If someone is hesitating about going because they are worried about their life there, I think they should take action and apply for IVHQ. This program has been the best 2 weeks of my life. The friends I met and the experience I had was fantastic.