Volunteer in the Philippines

I have gained so much from this program. Being able to experience a different culture was indescribable. Learning how the people live and how happy they are with the little they have is very humbling. Surviving with little resources, power outages and intermittent water shut downs has been quite the experience. I love it at Tigman Village. I cannot wait to come back and hopefully for a longer time.

Through this trip I got a new home in Philippines! I met a lot of like-minded volunteers and made some life-long friends during the volunteering trip. Also, I gained the opportunity to immerse in a new culture full-heartedly. I feel this experience really special and it will definitely become one of my most precious memories of my life!

What an amazing and enriching opportunity to have gotten to play a role in delivering education to such brilliant and beautiful children. I am also so thankful to have shared my experience with such an incredible group of staff and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who made my time in the Philippines so special. The memories I have made volunteering abroad will always be stored in the most precious part of my heart.

The meals were by far the best I have ever had in any volunteer accommodation I have ever stayed in. This is my 4th IVHQ Program and I have found them all to be impactful, fulfilling, safe and affordable.

In addition, the program guide was filled with valuable information that helped me prepare for this opportunity. Specifically, the information regarding the visa I found to be quite helpful.

My journey commenced with a culturally rich and purposeful project (putting up a school fence/wall). This marked the start of a series of impactful experiences - from helping with the construction at Elementary and kindergarten schools, to conservation efforts on the Environmental project (picking seedling and planting mangroves). Over time, my volunteering focus shifted from construction to environmental, fueled by a self awareness.

Through IVHQ, I've witnessed both environmental degradation and hopeful initiatives, shaping my role as a Mother Nature advocate. As my volunteering horizon expanded, so did the meaningful connections. From like-minded volunteers turned dear friends, to the invaluable encounters with local communities, each experience enriched my life. IVHQ's safe and supportive platform enabled this transformative journey, urging me to encourage others, especially the students, and people from foreign countries to embark on this adventure of giving back while exploring the world.

IVHQ trips are a true adventure and an intimate experience. You live, you feel and you love the people and the country. The IVHQ staff become your family, the fellow volunteers become your friends. I have always been respected and treated well by all. The cook would prepare sumptuous and healthy meals in accordance with everyone's diet, and food preferences (vegan and vegetarian).

There is no age limit to volunteering, there is no limit to giving… I have found the road to a fulfilling retirement! Volunteering globally broadened my horizons and enhanced my experience. I chose IVHQ due to its stellar online reviews and easy application process. Being in the construction and environmental conservation program in the Philippines was amazing. This will surely not be the last. I have so many amazing memories of my volunteer experiences, way too many to list them all.

For anyone considering their first volunteer trip with IVHQ, Philippines I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to take the plunge! You’ll meet amazing people and create lifelong memories - you won't regret it!

My wife and I volunteered with IVHQ in TIgman Village, Palawan in the Philippines and had a remarkably, impactful time. We would recommend to any honeymooners to volunteer for at least a portion of their trip as it created lasting memories, impactful experiences, and created a stronger bond between the two of us. Giving back to the country we were visiting, and assisting in healing the planet was such a great experience.

Courtney and I are vegan and so grateful for all of the options they provided to us, it was delicious!! We really appreciate it, everyone loved the food!! We will volunteer with IVHQ the next chance we get!! Next time, we will be going to South America! Thank you, IVHQ!

I’ve gained a lot! I feel I’ve gained more than given this volunteering trip as I immersed so much in the Philippines culture, made many friends and bonded with the locals. The hospitality and warmth of the locals is something I’ll never forget, thank you for having me on the programme! Will be back on the same trip next year!!