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Volunteer in The Philippines

Immerse yourself in the big-hearted culture of this mighty island nation of The Philippines. The Philippines are home to more than 100 million people who are divided between 7,000+ islands. The Malay people, who are native to the Philippines, are known for their welcoming sense of camaraderie and kinship. Both Spanish and Chinese influences are strong as well, cultivating an island tradition like none other. You can expect to feel unbound by the constraints of time as the locals relax and celebrate. Join the fun, experience delectable fare and learn a few words of Tagalog while you’re at it!

As a volunteer in the Philippines, you will be hosted by GIED, ICYE’s partner organization here. Global Initiative for Exchange and Development Inc. (GIED) aims to promote empowerment and build communities for sustainable development.

United Planet also offers mid-term (4 weeks to 16 weeks) volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internships (1 to 6 months) in the Philippines. Learn more about all of our volunteer abroad programs and virtual volunteering and virtual internship countries in Asia.

Young girl looks back at camera in Donsol, Philippines

Project Information

Community Development

Volunteers work for local organizations that advocate housing security and rights for the urban poor. Activities at the project include housing rights education, research and advocacy work, and assisting with basic projects to provide clean water and sanitation. Volunteers will work on varied administrative tasks and field work activities related to the operation of the organization.

Education

Volunteers assist teachers with help in any subject, help organize school clubs, and assist with teaching English, music, sports, arts, and leadership. Volunteers can organize activities for the children and aid in the develop of the children as a person.

Social Works

Volunteers will assist with implementing activities for a children’s library. Possible tasks include storytelling, participating in a reading program, helping out in English classes, or helping with other workshops. These centers provide an accessible venue and quality learning resources for underprivileged children. Volunteers can also assist in daily office work and develop promotional materials.

Country Highlights

Witness one of the many celebrations of the Philippines

Whether it’s a Masquerade or a festival, the streets will be filled with people dancing in the streets to drum beats.

Sample some of the amazing food of the Philippines

Like the many islands that make up the Philippines, there are many different dishes for you to sample. You could try the national dish, Adobo, or purple Ube ice cream. There will never be a moment where you find yourself eating the same dish for dinner every night.

Exterior of Bencab Museum

Visit the BenCab Museum

See beautiful pieces of artwork by BenCab as well as other Filipino artists. If you find yourself growing tired of being indoors, then go for a walk through the gardens or the eco trail which are right outside the museum.

See the Statue of Divine Mercy

Walk up the stairs to the statue’s shrine and witness the daily prayer routine performed by other visitors.

Quest Fees and Details

United Planet Quests are designed to be immersive, authentic, comprehensive and provide you everything you’ll need to succeed. The program elements allow you to engage fully with a new culture, forge strong relationships, and challenge yourself. Most importantly, we partner with the community to ensure your experience will be important, relevant and helpful to the community you serve.

Included in Your Quest

  • Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff or online
  • Food and lodging in your host country
  • Airport transfers
  • Emergency medical insurance
  • In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
  • Language training
  • Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
  • Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

Requirements

  • 18 – 50 years old (upper limit is flexible)
  • Citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

Start Dates and Travel

  • Volunteers are responsible for booking and covering the cost of their own flights (including pre-departure training).
  • Volunteers will obtain the necessary visas with support from our Long-Term staff to volunteer in their host country.

All dates are flexible and subject to change, this table serves as an example based on when you submit enrollment.

 
Start Date Duration Total Quest Fee Payment Plan
1st Installment (Deposit)

2nd Installment (4 months in advance)

3rd Installment (3 months in advance)

Final Installment (2 months in advance)

Ongoing 6 months $9,345 $300 $1,000 $4,022.50 $4,022.50
1-year $14,565 $300 $1,000 $6,632.50 $6,632.50

About Our Quest Fee

We want you to succeed. That means having in place the support our volunteers need. We don’t just drop you in country and hope for the best. We provide training before you leave … language exposure … 24/7 in-country support … support for your host family … accommodations, meals and airport transportation … activities and excursions. The whole idea is to make the experience successful and productive for you and the host community, and we have found that these things are crucial. Remember that we are a non-profit, mission-driven organization – we wouldn’t spend money on something that wasn’t important.

Have questions? We’re here for you. We’d love to help.

Get In Touch With Us