Project Summary

Volunteer on a building project in the Philippines and you can help with the ongoing enormous relief effort needed following Typhoon Yolanda in November 2013. The task of rebuilding communities is immense and international NGOs have done their best to help the government with rehabilitation.  This project is playing a part in that process. The priority for this project is to focus on rebuilding community structures and helping where needed.

The project aim is to build sustainable accommodation and facilities that will house generations to come while taking into account the local flood conditions. The project has investigated the types of structures suitable for different areas from flood zone areas to those in an urban setting.  Money has been spent on providing homes for those who lost everything so the organisation relies on fundraising campaigns and donations to carry out work to build community structures.  Come and support this building project in the Philippines and you can help support sustainable construction efforts.

Why choose this project?

The task facing the communities in Tacloban following Typhoon Yolanda is overwhelming and the assistance of external volunteers is much needed. Dealing with the trauma of the events that took place as well as securing a livelihood is very challenging for most families. Man power, hard work and willingness to get dirty are needed to help to protect the most vulnerable and to off local communities a better future through this building project in the Philippines.

Role of the volunteer

You will help to build houses or other standing structures as deemed a priority with the project building mandate. Depending on your skills, the materials being used and the stage of construction you may be asked to help dig foundations, lay hollow bricks, help set supporting pillars, build roof frames and help to improve the appearance of buildings to make them homely. You will work as part of a locally led team so good interpersonal skills are necessary.

Skills Required

You do not need any specific building skills although those with carpentry and building skills are highly sought. You must be flexible, strong and willing to work hard and get dirty.  It is a good idea for you to bring a good pair of gloves and some sturdy boots. You must be willing to help where needed and follow the instructions of the local experts.  Volunteers will be required to have a telephone interview and send in your CV/resume before being accepted onto this project.

REQUEST MORE INFO   RESERVE YOUR PLACE

The Location

About the Location

The project is located in Tacloban City in Leyte province in Visaya’s region of the Philippines which was devastated on 8th November 2013 when Typhoon Haiyan (or Yolanda as it is known locally) hit and destroyed homes, livelihoods and community spaces as well as taking many lives. Widespread devastation now exists in the area but there is much to do and see beyond the disaster zone. Tacloban is located on an the island of Leyte, about an hour by air southeast of Manila. Tacloban is a former World War II site, liberated in 1944 from Japan. It has a population of over 300,000 and the local language is Waray-Waray, but many people speak English. Volunteer in Tacloban and join our local team and gain an insight into the realities of surviving and rebuilding lives and communities. You will surely be touched by the gentle nature and resilience of the Filipino people. Take an additional week or two after your placement and visit some of the beautiful mountains, beaches and countryside unaffected by this tragedy. Visiting and buying from locals is a great way to put money back into the economy and make sure to continue to contribute with your efforts to help the communities of Tacloban.

Accommodation

All volunteers will stay in a homestay environment with a friendly local family on the outskirts of Tacloban City whilst volunteering in The Philippines with Kaya. We can assure you that you will be welcomed into the community with open arms, as these families are very familiar with receiving volunteers all year round. In the homestay houses you will have access to electricity, toilets and running water, but the setup is quite basic. One of the benefits of this accommodation is that you will only be a 2-minute walk away from other volunteers and the community centre (which acts as a home base for all volunteers in the area too!).

What to do in your spare time

Common trips volunteers go on in groups are to the remarkable islands of Bohol and Malapascua set over the course of 2-3 days. This is a great way to spend your weekend, to make friends, and get to know other volunteers in the area.

For those wanting to keep active during your time in The Philippines, there’s the opportunity to join a local gym (which has hot showers!) at the astrodome. You could even head downtown to use the climbing walls and badminton court while engaging in a bit of friendly competition. If surfing is a favourite pastime of yours, then one of the Philippines best surfing destination is just 2-3 hours away in the town of Guiuan. However, if you want to stay closer to home then you can enjoy playing basketball in your homestay community.

The Philippines is famous for it’s white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters which are perfect places to visit if you want to relax during your spare time. There are a number of beaches close by to choose from. We suggest you take a trip to Tadjow Beach and Tanuan Beach, which are close by to your accommodation.

Gallery