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TRIP PHP1125.TS

Philippines November 2025 – 2 Weeks Poverty Eradication. Social Justice. Global Engagement.

C$3,450Trip costs qualify for a tax receipt in US and Canada
Nov 8, 2025 Nov 22, 2025 Toledo on the island of Cebu, Philippines Adult & Family Trip Community Building

Give a Hand-Up to a School

Join us in a meaningful and impactful mission to restore a rural, impoverished school near Toledo on the island of Cebu. The school serves children from nearby farming communities that are often overlooked and underserved, where access to quality education and resources is severely limited. Located on the western side of Cebu island, communities surrounding Toledo face significant challenges due to their rural setting—many families struggle with poverty, and local infrastructure is in dire need of attention due to regular devastating typhoon activity.

This school is not only a place of learning but a beacon of hope for the next generation. Volunteers will have the unique opportunity to work with DWC’s partner Rise Above Foundation to make a lasting difference by helping restore the school’s classrooms, repair broken infrastructure, and improve the learning environment for these children. Whether you’re skilled in construction, painting, or simply willing to lend a helping hand, your contribution will be invaluable in creating a safe and welcoming space for education.

By volunteering, your involvement will directly empower these children and families, giving them the tools to overcome adversity and strive for a better future. Join us in this rewarding effort to create lasting change, strengthen the Toledo area, and provide these young minds with the brighter future they truly deserve.

 

MAKE AN IMPACT
In Philippines
  • Poverty and Child Labor: As of recent reports, approximately 2.1 million children in the Philippines are involved in child labor, with many working in hazardous conditions in agriculture, mining, and domestic work. This affects their education and overall well-being.

  • Vulnerable to Natural Disasters: Children living in poverty are disproportionately affected by natural disasters in the Philippines. The country is hit by an average of 20 typhoons per year, leaving many children displaced and without basic services.

What to ExpectA Typical Workday in Philippines

Are you ready for a rewarding experience that combines travel, culture, and giving back?  Whether you’re an experienced volunteer or someone looking to dive into a new adventure, we welcome you to be part of our team!

  • Daily Schedule: Your day will begin around 8:00 to 9:00 AM as you head to the project site. From there, you’ll be working 6 to 8 hours each day alongside like-minded volunteers who share your passion for giving back and exploring new places.
  • On-the-Job Training: No special skills or prior training? No problem! Local skilled laborers will provide hands-on training, so you’ll learn everything you need right on the site.
  • A Supportive Environment: You’ll work at your own pace, knowing that you have a team behind you and a seasoned team leader to guide you. There’s no rush—just meaningful work that allows you to contribute while learning new things!
  • Lunch and Dinner: Enjoy a delicious lunch provided on-site, and after a productive day, the team will head to a nearby restaurant for a tasty dinner of local cuisine. It’s a perfect way to unwind, bond with fellow volunteers, and share experiences.

Why Volunteer With Us? This is more than just a volunteer opportunity; it’s an experience that’ll open your eyes to new cultures and new ways of life. You’ll gain personal satisfaction from knowing that your work is helping families and schools in a growing community. Plus, you’ll meet passionate, like-minded travelers who are also excited about making a positive impact.

Island Hopping in the Philippines

If you have extra time, you may wish to enhance your volunteer experience with some island hopping. The Philippines is a remarkable country made up of more than 7,000 islands. The island of Boracay in the Philippines is famous around the world for its beautiful white beaches. The island is only 7km in length and at its narrowest just 500m wide but people flock here for the outstanding beauty that the island offers. The main attraction is White Beach that has a 4km stretch of white sand that is surrounded by restaurants, hotels and diving shops.

Banaue Rice Terraces to be the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and it is easy to see why when you begin to look at their shear magnificence. The terraces are 2,000 years old and they were carved into the mountains of Lfugao with the use of very few tools. The terraces are still used today by the locals who plant their vegetables and rice there, as they are naturally irrigated by the surrounding rainforests.

Trip Details

Itinerary

Saturday, November 8 to Sunday, November 9Explore Cebu City 
Arrive in Cebu and explore the city’s culture, landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere and be transported to Toledo to get ready for the project.

Monday, November 10 to Friday, November 14Project Work
Get to work alongside local communities, making a positive impact through hands-on volunteering.

Saturday, November 15 to Sunday, November 16Rest and Relaxation (R&R)
Enjoy some well-deserved free time to relax, explore, and recharge.

Monday, November 17 to Friday, November 21More Project Work
Continue your volunteer work, deepening connections and seeing the impact of your efforts.

Saturday, November 22Fly Home or Explore More
Wrap up your journey back in Cebu or stay longer to discover more of the beauty of the Philippines.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?
The cost of this trip is displayed at the top of the page. This cost includes accommodations, meals, in-country transport, program costs, and a donation to our host partner in their respective country. It does not include airfare and you are responsible for booking your own flights. The entire trip is 100% tax deductible. A $1000 non refundable deposit is due once the trip is confirmed which is then credited towards your trip cost. Your trip cost is due in its entirety 45 days prior to departure. Select trips may be subject to additional cultural activity fees. As of 2025 airfare will no longer qualify for a tax deductible receipt on our open trips. US volunteers may be subject to administrative fees/exchange rate adjustments.

Are accommodations included and what are they like?
DWC books your accommodations for you, and it is included in your Trip Cost! Your team will stay at a local hotel that is comfortable and clean. Rooms are booked as shared double occupancy. You may upgrade to a private room for an additional cost, where possible. We will do our best to accommodate adjustments.

Are meals provided and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
All meals are included in your trip cost. Some meals will be at the hotel, while others at local restaurants. The food is prepared hygienically, and dishes range from local to standard western fare. Volunteers submit a health form to DWC and all requests for dietary restrictions will be provided to the Team Leader, hotel, and host partner, to be accommodated wherever possible. Your Trip Cost does not include tips, alcohol, or snacks.

Can I add personal travel onto this trip?
Absolutely! We want you to have the best travel experience possible. If you choose to add personal travel onto the front or back end of your trip, you are welcome to book your own accommodation and transportation arrangements for early arrivals or late departures, however you are required to arrive in time to fully participate in the volunteer experience with your team. Personal travel would not be covered in your tax-deductible receipt.

Can my family come on the trip with me?
The trip cost listed is a per person rate. Family members can participate in the trip as part of the volunteer team by paying a separate trip cost. Children 12-17 wishing to participate in a volunteer trip require a parent/guardian with them.

What is the minimum age requirement to volunteer?
Children under 12 are unable to participate in our program due to the nature of the volunteer work involved. Children 12-17 wishing to participate in a volunteer trip require a parent/guardian with them.

Do I need construction experience and how much will we work?
You don’t need special skills or training to be able to help. We hire local skilled labourers who will give training onsite for construction and team leaders. You will work at your own pace, within your own comfort level, five days a week from about 8AM to 4PM. Your evenings and weekends are free for cultural activities and relaxing.

What is the work site like and what is the intensity of the labour?
There is a building manager and translator on site. Tasks on the work site vary and you will only be asked to do what you are comfortable with and within your physical abilities. There is no pressure!

Why should I volunteer?
Support sustainable change with us. Learn about the world and yourself, lend a hand and build hope. Every bit of time spent on a DWC project is helping a person, a family, or a community. You’ll know that your contribution will make someone’s life better. DWC matches teams of volunteers and resources with people and organizations in developing nations to alleviate poverty and inspire hope and your efforts do have impact. The experience is enhanced by working as a team. Simply put, there is joy and self-discovery that comes with giving to others. And you’ll have fun doing it, too.

Are DWC trips religious or political in nature?
DWC has no religious or political affiliations.

Meet the Trip Leader

Each trip is coordinated by DWC with the help of a Team Leader, who has travelled with DWC previously, is First Aid Certified, and has completed a Criminal Record Check. Your Team Leader will liaise with DWC and ensure all your questions are answered. Your Team Leader will handle all team finances through the trip and travel with you to ensure the best possible travel and volunteer experience for their team! They also facilitate fun, cultural experiences where possible, ensuring group cohesion. See your Team Leader Biography here:

Terry-Lynn Stone

Terry-Lynn lives by the motto, “You cannot change the world—but you can help change someone’s world.” Whether it is volunteering with her local Rotary Club, traveling with DWC, or following her passion making and delivering menstrual kits to girls so they can go to school, Terry-Lynn delights in helping others. Any trip with DWC and Terry-Lynn will be one part work, one part passion and a huge helping of humour and fun! Why not join us in the Philippines as we don’t change the world, but do help change some people’s world.

Travel Light Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Carbon offsets are used to compensate for the greenhouse gasses that we create through certain activities, such as flying. For every tonne of carbon released into the atmosphere, an ‘offset’ is a carefully designed project that absorbs or stores the equivalent CO2 emissions. You can choose to offset your own flight, your whole family’s, or do this as a gift for a friend.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Joy

Volunteer Program Manager

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