Mangrove nursery project
Lisa Marie David

Video: The Humble Mangrove Tree

Did you know that mangroves, a mangled tropical wetland tree, are underrated climate change superheroes?

These remarkable trees protect coasts, ecosystems, homes and livelihoods, yet they are currently under threat. Check out our video which tells the impressive story of how VSO volunteers in the Philippines are harnessing the hidden power of mangroves, nature and community to create real sustainable change for families.

Watch the video

Our work in the Philippines

We’ve been working in the Philippines since 1964. Although the Philippines has made significant strides in reducing poverty, inequality and deprivation persists. With an average of 20 typhoons a year, rising sea levels and ocean acidification, the Philippines is often cited as one of the countries most at risk from the climate crisis. Learn more about how our volunteers are helping communities develop the techniques needed to build sustainable and resilient livelihoods in the face of adversity.

Learn more about VSO in the Philippines

Mangrove planting

Support us with a donation

Read more

Group of girls learning outdoors

The two volunteers empowering girls and young women in Mozambique

Nelma and Carmirene and are two volunteers working on VSO's EAGLE project in Mozambique. For Nelma and Carmirene, education is not just about school, it is about meeting people where they are and using the right tools to challenging harmful norms. Here are their stories.

Photo booth

In photos: Our Regional Health Promotion Conference 2025

Check out some of our favourite photos from Regional Health Promotion Conference (RHPC25). This event sought to reimagine Universal Health Coverage through the lens of intersectionality.

Woman drawing

Using intersectionality to create healthy beginnings and hopeful futures

World Health Day brings global attention to the urgent need to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths. Learn more about how our Regional Health Promotion Conference is tackling these issues head on.