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

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Dancing volunteers

Highlights from the Regional Health Promotion Conference 2025

The Regional Health Promotion Conference 2025 reimagined Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the lens of intersectionality, by bringing together experts from across East Africa and beyond.

Community aquacultural training, Cambodia.

Protecting the biodiversity of the East Tonlé Sap Lake through aquaculture

Aquaculture — the farming of aquatic organisms, such as eels, shellfish, and seaweed, in a controlled environment — is transforming the lives of Cambodian people like Mr Em Phat.

Peacebuilding volunteer Rahma
VSO/Paul Wambugu

Five things women achieved this year that you might not know about

This International Women's Day, join us in celebrating the resilience of women across the globe with some female achievements you might not have heard about.