Peace Corps Philippines

Peace Corps Volunteers Sydney, Lynn, and Giuliana joined students at American Corner Baguio for a Diplomat Chat that brought young people and U.S. Embassy partners together in one lively space. Regional English Language Officer Jeffrey McIlvenna shared stories about diplomacy, career pathways, and learning opportunities, while Volunteers added their experiences from local communities. The session encouraged students to stay curious, ask questions, and explore new ways to grow.

Learn how Volunteers serve with communities: https://bit.ly/4ewTa1M

Peace Corps Philippines honors the life of John Diviva, who served the Coastal Resource Management sector as a dedicated Program Manager for four years. Colleagues remember him as a thoughtful team member who never returned from a site visit without “pasalubong”, a trusted mentor who was always willing to share his expertise, and a passionate advocate for marine sanctuaries and the fisherfolk who depend on them.

John believed in the power of steady, honest work and dreamed of strengthening Coastal Resource Management programs for Volunteers and communities. He loved Peace Corps Philippines and brought energy, clarity, and wit to every conversation, whether in the field or in the office. His passing on May 23, 2026 is felt deeply by the partners, staff, and Volunteers who learned from him.

His commitment lives on in the people he guided and the coastal communities he worked hard to protect.

Protecting coastal ecosystems starts with communities who know them best. 🪸 🌊 Through the Citizen Science Volunteer Initiative led by PCV Ceara, 31 community members in Antique completed an ecosystem assessment training focused on coral reefs, seagrass, and mangroves. Participants included fisherfolk leaders, youth representatives, and local government partners who are now helping build a one-year commitment plan to ensure the sustainability of the project. PCVs Anya, Rowan, and Erika also supported the training alongside local government partners, Rare Philippines, and the University of Antique.

Want to make a similar impact? Talk to a recruiter now: https://bit.ly/4sMurdk

For many students, preparing for college can feel uncertain without access to review materials or guidance. Project Gabay, a Peace Corps Partnership Program (PCPP) grant led by PCV Jared, helped create those opportunities through a support system rooted in mentorship and community. Through the project, a total of 58 Grade 12 students completed six weeks of college entrance exam review sessions, peer study groups, and college guidance workshops. Teachers also completed a facilitator training that will enable them to continue the program independently and help future students prepare with the same support and encouragement.

Learn how you can support students across the globe through service: https://bit.ly/4ewTa1M

Celebrating strong partnerships in education! On May 8, Peace Corps Philippines received a Plaque of Appreciation from the Department of Education for its continued support of quality learning across the Philippines. Director of Training and Programming Amanda Martin and Education Program Manager Jessica Sucgang represented Peace Corps Philippines during the DepEd Partners’ Appreciation Ceremony in Mandaluyong City.

For many years, Peace Corps Philippines and the Department of Education have partnered to support English learning in classrooms across the country. Today, 13 Peace Corps Volunteers serve alongside DepEd teachers through co-teaching, tutoring, and community-led projects that help expand students’ access to educational resources.

Learn more about Volunteering in the Philippines: https://bit.ly/48Y06S5

What happens when the youth are given the space to lead other youth? They ✨thrive ✨!

80 youth participants came together for the culminating Youth Camp of Project Youth LEAD in Bataan, a community‑driven initiative developed alongside the local government of Balanga. After months of preparation, trainings, and peer facilitation workshops, 17 youth leaders co‑led camp sessions with support from 10 Peace Corps Volunteers (PCVs), led by PCVL Anne and assisted by PCVL Joshua. The camp encouraged each participant to grow their confidence and begin shaping their own role as a leader in their community.

Interested in supporting youth development while serving local communities? Visit https://bit.ly/4vGazeD

CSWDO-City of Balanga, Bataan Mayor Raquel Garcia