Philippines: Environmental Conservation

Introduction

Join us in dedicating your time to the vital task of rehabilitating the deteriorating mangrove areas of Tigman Village, which have suffered from significant decline over the past decade.

By participating in this project, you will actively contribute to the conservation and restoration of Palawan’s mangrove plantations, which serve as crucial habitats for the region’s diverse marine life. These mangroves play a pivotal role in preserving the coastal ecosystem by acting as a natural barrier, effectively mitigating the impact of storm surges and preventing beach erosion. Additionally, your efforts will extend to planting mahogany and moringa tree seeds, fostering sustainable practices and supporting the local village’s environmental goals.

By engaging in this initiative, you will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the ecosystem and the local community. Embrace the chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of Palawan’s coastal environment while working alongside passionate individuals committed to the conservation of these precious natural resources.

Daily Life

Immerse yourself in the captivating province of Palawan, situated in the Mimaropa region and renowned for its abundant wildlife sanctuaries, marine reserves, and world heritage sites. Palawan Island, known for its remarkable biodiversity, boasts some of the world’s most stunning seascapes, captivating the interest of locals in conservation efforts.

Through this project, we aim to protect and conserve the diminishing mangrove plantations, which have experienced a rapid decline in recent years. Our approach focuses on educating younger generations and engaging in physical labor to restore and replant mangroves.

As a valuable participant, you will play a crucial role in fortifying our natural coastal barrier, mitigating storm surges, reducing beach erosion, and maintaining pristine shorelines. Additionally, we need your assistance in fostering environmental conservation by conducting training sessions with children, instilling a sense of responsibility towards our precious natural resources.

For the tree planting component of our program, we have carefully selected Moringa and Mahogany seeds due to their numerous benefits, local availability, and suitability for growth in the area.

Mahogany, renowned worldwide for its beauty, strength, and durability, also possesses medicinal properties in its seeds. Rich in saponins and flavonoids, these seeds have the potential to treat fevers, lower bad cholesterol, and improve blood circulation.

Moringa, often referred to as the “miracle tree” or horseradish tree, is a superfood known for its exceptional health benefits. Its pods, leaves, seeds, and roots are all edible. Local villagers treasure Moringa for its traditional remedies, utilizing its seeds or leaves for the prevention and treatment of various ailments. It is also a versatile ingredient in local cuisine, perfectly complementing fish and meat dishes.

This program is an ideal fit for individuals with good physical fitness, enthusiasm, and a deep passion for making a positive impact on the environment and the local community.

Please note that certain tasks in the mangroves may be affected by changes in the tide and water levels. In such cases, your coordinator will guide you towards alternative activities during those times.

Travel and Accommodation

This center houses all participants in their programs around Palawan. It is built with many natural elements and has a tropical beach look to them! You’ll be sleeping on bunk beds and we have limited laundry facilities, so expect to wash your clothes by hand, unless you’d like to use the laundry service here for a small fee.

Due to our tropical setting, WiFi  service may not be what you are used to at home. It is limited and sometimes inaccessible due to weather, so having your own local SIM card and purchasing data through the GLOBE network may be your best option for staying connected consistently while you are in our local village. Please be advised that due to jellyfish in the water, it is unlikely that you will be able to swim at the beach close by the accommodation. There is an area near the river or on the other side of the village, which is about a 15 minute walk away, where you will be able to enjoy some time in the water.

Three meals are provided every day of the program scheduled at 8:00 a.m..for Breakfast, 12:00pm for Lunch and 6:00 pm for Dinner and on weekends only brunch and dinner. Food will be mainly of typical local and western dishes. Since we are in Asia, rice is a staple. 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.

In addition, food arrangement varies based on your program. Typically, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner will usually serve at the Accommodation Center, however, for participants having outdoor activities or placement will have packed lunch or take lunch at the local restaurants or at the Filipino Authentic Restaurants nearby. Finally, you are free to relax and explore the local area and local dishes during your spare time or on the weekends but at your own cost and expense.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18.
• No previous skills are necessary, however you will need to speak English at a native or near-native level.
• Minimum 2 weeks commitment – 30+ hours a week
• CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions
• Necessary vaccinations.
• Necessary flight & visas.
• Full travel & medical insurance. Please see our info pages for more information and to get a quote.

Costs

€350 Euros per week

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes food, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

Private rooms are available for an additional €100 per week.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.