Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Brilliant 4.72rating (254)
  • Sustainable Cities And Communities

Renovation and Infrastructure

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • People of all skills and experiences are welcome on this project
  • Join ongoing and existing projects with local tradesman or try renovation work within the community
  • Help to renovate and build community centres such as village schools, playgrounds & healthcare centres

Highlights

  • People of all skills and experiences are welcome on this project
  • Join ongoing and existing projects with local tradesman or try renovation work within the community
  • Help to renovate and build community centres such as village schools, playgrounds & healthcare centres
  • Get involved in laying bricks, doing carpentry, painting, laying tiles, and landscaping/gardening
  • Get stuck in and 'hands dirty' on this active project
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Support the locals in developing, constructing, and renovating communal infrastructures such as schools, healthcare centres, tribal halls, community centres.

    Nacpan Village predominantly houses local fishermen whose homes are constructed from bamboo, nipa, light materials, and wood. Sadly, many residents here struggle to make ends meet and lack the resources to improve their living standards or upgrade their homes.

    Additionally, communal infrastructures ...

    About the program

    Nacpan Village predominantly houses local fishermen whose homes are constructed from bamboo, nipa, light materials, and wood. Sadly, many residents here struggle to make ends meet and lack the resources to improve their living standards or upgrade their homes.

    Additionally, communal infrastructures in the village, including public spaces, have not been well-maintained or preserved, calling for reconstruction and restructuring.

    The main objective of this project is to support the locals in developing, constructing, and renovating communal infrastructures and institutions such as schools, healthcare centres, tribal halls, community centres, multi-purpose centres, and residential houses. These efforts aim to provide secure, safe, and comfortable spaces for various community activities.

    By participating in this project, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the community and work alongside local organized teams and other volunteers. This will offer you unique experiences and insights into the local culture, customs, language, and way of life. It will also allow you to connect with the kind, friendly, and hospitable locals of El Nido, Palawan, while collaborating with participants from all over the world to contribute to these construction efforts.

    Your Roles – Other Information
    On the other hand, you don’t need special qualifications or even to have experience in construction efforts, but do consider this job requires physical strength and endurance in hot weather conditions. Hence, Your main roles can or will include the following:

    • Assist in the construction and renovations of community infrastructures.
    • Help and assist in the construction or renovation of schools, classrooms or playgrounds.
    • Build and renovate communal facilities.
    • Paint school walls and other buildings.
    • Repair and work with wood and furniture.
    • Digging and assembling construction Materials.
    • Painting and renovating cultural sites such as churches, healthcare centres and so on.
    • Help in constructing and renovating local houses of residents.
    • Finally, during the construction activities, please be careful and mindful when using construction equipment and material, ask assistance from your local coordinators for heavy tasks and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

    Location

    El Nido, located in the province of Palawan, is renowned as one of the world’s top tourist destinations due to its mesmerising lagoons, white sand beaches, rocky islets, towering limestone cliffs, and diverse marine life. Despite its popularity among tourists, there are overlooked communities living in impoverished conditions, particularly Nacpan Village, situated 17 kilometers north of El Nido town.

    Project Tasks

    • Improve the quality of life for underprivileged residents around the area.
    • Assist the locals on daily construction and renovation tasks as an organized team.
    • Connect and create local multicultural exchange experiences both locals and volunteers can benefit from.
    • Gain practical experience in constructing and renovating works.

    Typical day

    Monday
    Breakfast
    Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
    Filipino Do’s and Don’ts, Dress Codes, Filipino Culture Lessons and Basic Filipino Language Lessons.
    Tour Around Town’s centre and Local ...

    Typical day

    Monday
    Breakfast
    Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice, handling of documents & Signing up of relevant documents.
    Filipino Do’s and Don’ts, Dress Codes, Filipino Culture Lessons and Basic Filipino Language Lessons.
    Tour Around Town’s centre and Local Area, and arrange a sim-card if necessary.
    Lunch
    Project Meetings, Observation and Preparations with assigned Local Program Coordinators.
    Welcome Dinner

    Tuesday to Friday
    Breakfast
    Engage in Construction and renovation efforts.
    Lunch
    Engage in Construction and renovation efforts.
    Dinner

    Note: Program will have a minimum of four (4) hours a day.

    ***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local circumstances***

    *Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience. 

    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 ...

    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.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    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)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    Special Work Permit (SWP) if staying 4+ weeks

    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

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • 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 El Nido

    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.

    You have 2 options for arrival:

    1st option: A free airport pickup is included when arriving to El Nido Airport (Lio). You must arrive between 08:00 – 17:00 on Sunday. The fastest way to go to El Nido is to fly directly to Lio Airport from Manila. Currently, AirSwift is the only airline that services the Manila to El Nido route. AirSwift operates up to four direct flights per day from Manila.The travel time is 1 hour & 30 minutes.

    2nd option: A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS). You must arrive between 08:00 – 15:00 on Sunday. Upon pick up at the airport, you will then transfer to the bus station on your way to El Nido or to the accommodation. The trip takes around 6 to 7 hours from the city of Puerto Princesa to El Nido.

    If arriving outside the pickup times you can book a private transfer and any extra nights accommodation for an additional charge.

    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 El Nido airport the Nacpan Village accommodation, it takes 20 mins by road. To the Barangay Buena Suerte accommodation it takes 30 mins by road.

    From Puerto Princesa International Airport, to both accommodation centres, it will take approx 6-7 hours by road.  

    Accommodation

    The volunteer centre provides rooms shared with 4 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, cold showers 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.

    We have  two accommodation houses. The first is located in the small Village of Nacpan, El Nido, Palawan, which is about 20 mins to town. It’s close to the beach where you can relax, chill and swim on the beach during your spare time. You can also get to your placement via walking or riding a tricycle for nearby Barangays or other areas. This accommodation is mostly for those doing the construction, kindergarten and teaching programs.

    The Second Accommodation is located at Barangay Buena Suerte, located at the very heart of the El nido Town. This accommodation is for those doing the El Nido culture week and Beach week programs. You can roam around the town’ centre during your spare time. El Nido town is a 5 hour drive from the City of Puerto Princesa.

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

    *Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.


    Private Room Upgrade: please contact us directly for options and pricing

    *Please note: Upgrade prices can change, so please check the price with us first

    Food & Beverages

    3 meals per day are provided each day (2 on weekends). Food will be mainly of typical local and western dishes. We serve rice but not everyday. We also serve pasta, noodles, sea foods, most of the time chicken and pork, vegetables and fruits. For breakfast, we may have eggs, sausages, oatmeal, bread, pancakes, coffee and tea. However, meals will also be served based on your dietary requirements, but you need to inform us in advance.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is El Nido (ENI) in El Nido. We assist you to find cheap flights to Philippines. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    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. GET A QUOTE

    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. VACCINE CHECKER

    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

    Program Fees

    $595 per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2025
    I supported a loving team with daily tasks such as keeping the enclosures clean, shredding antelopes and feeding the kittens. Comments on ...
    •
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location

    Asia > South East Asia > Philippines > El Nido

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Community  >  Construction in the Philippines
    Contact Lauren
      Very high response rate
    English

    Most volunteers ask about

    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Lauren
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details