FAQ

Why should I volunteer during my vacation?

Travelling as a volunteer allows you to offer services for projects in places that people might not ordinarily have had the occasion to visit.

Volunteering also enable people from different walks of life to share their knowledge and skills and develop harmonious relationships regardless of nationality, age, gender, race or social status.

How can I join HOVV?

If you have the passion for travelling and want to make a difference at the same time, then HOVV is for you. Joining is easy:

Choose a project
Send your confirmation form and proof of payment of the HOVV joining fee
Arrange your trip (airfare, accommodations, travel insurance)
Schedule your volunteer activity with Hands On Manila
Attend the briefing
Get ready for the adventure!

How many days/weeks should I volunteer for the projects?

The length of volunteer work will depend on the travel schedule of the volunteers. Whether volunteers are only available for a day or two, or for a week to do volunteer work, HOM can customize the volunteer project according to their needs. However, there are projects which require a minimum number of 3 days for the volunteer work.

Volunteers may also opt to combine two projects according to their itineraries. For example, volunteers can do mangrove planting at Aklan as well as undertake assisting in the training of local communities in Bohol, depending on their area of expertise.

Can I do a project alone, or should I be with other volunteers or be part of a group?

A volunteer does not always have to be in a group to do a volunteer work. A lot of projects are volunteer-friendly and easy for a single volunteer to be involved in. However, there are projects that are only available for groups, like school refurbishing and improvement.

How are the volunteer projects selected?

Our volunteer projects have been sourced through consultation with our partner organizations in the local communities. Together with our partners we identify project sites that will receive high impact from volunteer contributions.

Will I be safe?

The safety of our volunteers is our paramount concern. All project sites have to meet strict safety criteria. Furthermore we only send volunteers to sites that have the support of the local government. We have a 100 % safety record.

Do you have custom programs for groups?

Yes, we do. In the past we have created individualized programs for groups and corporations. Please contact Claire for more information: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Where will I be staying?

Depending on the program, you will be staying with host families, in guesthouses or native houses. Please see the details of each program for more information.

What types of food will be available? Are there options for vegans or vegetarians?

In cities (Manila, Cebu) there are plenty of food options. However, outside of the cities you might not find the food variety you may be accustomed to in your own country. If you are vegan or vegetarian and you have questions or concerns regarding food in the Philippines, please contact us so we can inform you in detail about the food options at the destination of your choice.