Philippines Arrival Procedures

We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in the Philippines. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.

Arrival airport and pickup in Philippines

One of our friendly Projects Abroad staff members will be there to meet you upon arrival at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB). It’s about a two-and-a-half to three hour journey from the airport in Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu to Bogo City, where our offices are based.

If you arrive late at night, you’ll stay overnight at a hotel close to their airport and travel through to Bogo the next day. Your airport transfers are included in the cost of your overall project fee.

Booking your flights to Philippines

Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We’ll let you know which airport you’ll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there.

We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are.

Find out more about the flight booking process.

Visas requirements for your volunteer project or internship in Philippines

One of the perks of volunteering with us is the visa guidance we give you. We have a dedicated visa team who have up-to-date information on visa requirements for all of our destinations around the world. You can get in touch with us if you have any visa queries, big or small, and we will talk you through the process. Once you apply, you’ll also get a link to your own MyProjectsAbroad webpage, which will include all the necessary visa information.

Your induction and orientation in Philippines

On your first day, you’ll receive an introduction to your new town. A staff member will take you on a tour of the surrounding area, pointing out useful places that you might need. They’ll help you to buy a local SIM card and exchange money, and also explain how the public transport works.

You’ll visit our offices as well, and learn more about how we run our projects in the Philippines. You’ll also receive a welcome pack which contains useful information such as maps and our local contact details.

Your first day at your volunteer or internship placement in Philippines

You’ll receive plenty of guidance so that you’re fully prepared for your placement. On your first day, a Projects Abroad staff member will accompany you from your host family to your work placement so that you know how to get there.

You’ll be shown around and get to meet the different people you’ll be working with. You’ll also receive an introduction to how the placement is run, and familiarise yourself with your surroundings and your upcoming tasks. Your project work only begins on your second day.

Support, safety, and backup

Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.

Find out more about safety and backup.