Local Community Construction

Non-profit
·
founded in 1989
Lauren
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Coordinator | Lauren
Coordinator | Lauren
Book with Flex Option! Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs.

High­lights

Volunteer along side local tradesman to assist in the construction of houses & schools
Assist in decorating and updating local school classrooms, making a nicer environment for the school kids
Work as a team with fellow volunteers and local workers
Stay in the beautiful area of Palawan- right by the beach
Volunteer along side local tradesman to assist in the construction of houses & schools for the local people of Philippines. This volunteer program is especially suitable for:
Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+
On Novermber 08, 2013 one of the strongest storms ever recorded made landfall on the island of Leyte, Philippines bringing with it devastating storm surges and deadly 330 kilometer per hour winds. The aftermath of Typhoon Haiyan (known locally as ‘Yolanda’) was a total catastrophe as many coastline communities were completely wiped out and much of the city’s internal infrastructure completely destroyed. The official deal toll stands at approximately 6,000 however many local sources suggest the actual number of Yolanda victims has surpassed 10,000.

Since Typhoon Yolanda the need for strong sustainable living conditions has never been so dire. All across Leyte and Samar, thousands of families are still reeling from the aftermath of the disaster. Homes previously located within 50 meters of the shoreline in many cases are no longer available for rebuilding.

Through this project, you’ll directly help the local people assisting in creating better living conditions for families and school children. Depending on the needs at the time you’ll either be assisting in either home rebuilding or renovations of schools. This may involve simple renovations, eg. painting and landscaping, to complete rebuilds or major renovations to classrooms.

Location
Palawan is a long narrow island surrounded by numerous small islands to make up the Province known (after the largest of its islands) as Palawan. The island province of Palawan has been declared as a nature sanctuary of the world as it is wrapped in a mantel of rainforests, incredible dive sites with colorful marine life, mountains, caves, and pristine beaches. The island is very picturesque and dotted with fishing villages and of course surrounded by beautiful blue sea and green jungle mountains. It has an abundance of wildlife and is mostly undeveloped. The projects are located approx 45 min outside the main city of Puerto Princesa where you will be warmly welcomed into the community.

Project Tasks
  • Help local workers on various community and home construction projects
  • Get stuck in, laying bricks, tiles, carpentry, landscaping, etc
  • Renovate local schools by painting, clearing up, painting murals, etc

Typical day

Monday to Friday - Work hours are generally from 9am to 4pm with a couple of hours free for lunch. 
  • Breakfast
  • Assist the local village community with construction and renovation efforts
  • Lunch
  • Assist the local village community with construction and renovation efforts
  • Dinner

Free-time activities

Beaches of Boracay
This small island is known for its outstanding natural beauty, and pristine white sand beaches. White beach stretches for 4km and is a popular place to visit. There are plenty of cafes and nightlife, including fire throwers and live music at the bars.

Bohol Chocolate Hills
Take a visit to Bohol island, around an hour from Cebu, and check out the 1200 hills of all shapes and sizes. This stunning natural formation is quite a sight. You can hike or take an ATV ride up the hills.

Diving
The Philippines have many amazing dive spots, and some of the most pristine water in the world! With plenty of fish, coral reef and even whale sharks, this is a divers heaven. You can even learn to dive here.

Twin Lagoon on Coron Island
You may have seen images of this spectacular beauty spot online- and it doesn’t disappoint! As well as some incredible diving, you can also explore some stunning viewpoints, secluded beaches, or go on a boat tour around these turquoise blue waters.  

Ziplining
For those who love adventurous activities, why not try ziplining?! Check out the stunning one on El Nido, with beautiful views over the beach. It’s 750 metres and will give you that adrenaline kick for sure.

Kayaking
There are plenty of gorgeous places to kayak in the Philippines, and it’s secret lagoons are some of the best spots. Paddle your way through the stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Vigan Town
This very pretty town has a Hispanic heritage that is evident as you walk through the artsy cobbled streets. Vigan town is on the island of Luzon and is a great weekend trip, with museums, cafes, workshops and quirky sights. For photographers, you can get some pretty shots at dawn, when the town is empty.

Underground River, Palawan
Puerto Princesa is a beautiful river that goes underground, through impressive limestone caves. Book a boat tour to take you through the caves.

Manila
The capital city, Manila is a hustling and bustling place, with plenty of culture. Be sure to check out the museums, art galleries, old buildings, cafes and bars.
Water Sports
Swimming
Sightseeing
Diving/
Snorkling
Shopping/
Souvenirs
Climbing
Hiking
Museum/
Opera
Yoga/
Meditation

Require­ments

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.
Language Skills
You need to speak English (basic level)
Nationality Restrictions
No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.
Time Commitment
Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI
Accommodation
3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
1 day orientation
Daily transportation to project
In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
Fundraising support
University course credits (where applicable)
Certificate of Completion
Airport Pickup at Puerto Princesa International Airport

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). You must arrive between 10:00 - 17:00 on Sunday.

If arriving outside the pickup times on Sunday, you can book a private transfer for US$50.

If arriving during the week, or on Saturday, we charge US$50 for any extra night’s accommodation before your program, and another US$50 fee for a private transfer.

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From the airport the accommodation, it takes 1.5 hours by road. 

Accommodation
The volunteer centre provides rooms shared with 4-8 people per room, with the houses complete with either a fan or air con, T.V, kitchen, wifi (this can be limited sometimes), mosquito protection, bed linen and lockable rooms. Limited laundry facilities, so expect to wash your clothes by hand, unless you’d like to use the laundry service for a small fee.

*Private rooms may be available for a small upgrade, please ask us in advance.

Bedroom (Double) Bedroom (Single) Dorm Room
Food & Beverages

3 meals per day are provided each day (2 on weekends), with mainly local Philippino foods being served, including lots of vegetables, rice, fish, meat and eggs. Meals are served on site at the accommodation.

Internet Access
Limited access at the project site
What's NOT included?
Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees.
Flight Tickets
The nearest airport is Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) in Puerto Princesa. We assist you to find cheap flights to Philippines.
Travel Insurance
Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Philippines provides security and is a plus to have.
Vaccines
If you are intending to volunteer in Philippines you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Philippines.

Dates & Fees

NO CREDIT CARD FEES

Details on arrival

Program starts every Monday. Arrivals on Sat/ Sun. If arriving on Sat, an extra night is charged.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Duration
1 - 20 weeks

Program fees

Costs: Prices in USD
1 week (min. stay)
$595
2 weeks
$810
3 weeks
$1,010
4 weeks
$1,200
8 weeks
$2,470
12 weeks
$3,525
20 weeks (max. stay)
$5,085
Average fees
$425 /week

Please note that the above shown program fees are estimated. Involvement Volunteers IVI will let you know about the final price during your application process.
Deposit (15%)
The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.
Final Payment (85%)
Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

Why book with Volunteer World

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All program fees are charged directly by Involvement Volunteers IVI.

What are people saying about Volunteer World?

Local Community Construction

Volunteer along side local tradesman to assist in the construction of houses & schools for the local people of Philippines.

$425/week

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