Step 1
Step 3
Step 2
You’ll be matched with your personal volunteer travel expert who’ll guide you every step of the way.
Meet Your Travel Expert
Receive your welcome pack with everything you need: arrival info, contacts, visa and insurance help, packing tips, vaccines, language basics, and so much more.
Get Ready to Go!
Choose your dream project and apply for free—no commitment, just excitement!
Pick Your Destination & Apply
Step 2
Step 3
Once your dates are confirmed, pay your program fee—choose to pay in full or in easy installments.
Secure Your Spot
Step 4
Want to begin your journey into marine conservation in the heart of the Indo-Pacific? Our Travel Roots Research Buddy Program in the Philippines is the perfect foundation for aspiring conservationists who want hands-on marine science experience while gaining internationally recognised dive certifications.
Research Buddies (RBs) assist our professional Marine Scientists in collecting and processing real conservation data from active reef monitoring projects. You will learn how marine research is conducted in the field — from underwater survey techniques to species identification and data logging.
Gain professional dive qualifications
As part of the program, you will complete your PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications (including digital materials). This ensures you are fully prepared to participate safely and confidently in reef monitoring and ecological survey dives.Build real scientific knowledge
Through a 5-day coral reef ecology and physiology lecture series, plus specialist workshops covering coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate, and disease identification, you’ll gain an intimate understanding of Indo-Pacific reef ecosystems and their processes.Communicate science beyond the reef
Marine conservation isn’t just underwater. Research Buddies also learn how to communicate scientific findings to local stakeholders through school education sessions and community outreach programs — bridging the gap between research and impact.Work in a professional research environment
You’ll complete approximately 30–40 training and survey dives per month (weather dependent), working directly alongside Marine Scientists in a structured, professional setting.This program forms the foundation of all our marine research pathways in the Philippines, including reef monitoring, predator studies, coral restoration, and 3D reef mapping.
By volunteering on our Research Buddy Program in the Philippines, you will:
✅ Earn your PADI Open Water & Advanced Open Water dive certifications
✅ Complete ~30–40 research and training dives per month
✅ Learn coral reef ecology and Indo-Pacific species identification
✅ Assist Marine Scientists in real conservation data collection
✅ Develop analytical and problem-solving skills in a professional setting
✅ Take part in community outreach and science communication
✅ Build a strong foundation for future marine conservation careers
What to Expect: A Week in the Life of a Research Buddy
Your journey begins over the weekend, with most participants arriving on Saturday or Sunday. The program officially starts on Monday.
Monday – Orientation & Foundations
The week begins with onboarding and paperwork, followed by lectures and presentations outlining the week’s research focus. You’ll review project objectives, marine survey techniques, and scientific protocols.
In the afternoon, you’ll set up and review your dive equipment with the team.Tuesday – Skill Development
If technical dive or survey skills are required, Tuesday is typically reserved for in-water practice. This ensures you feel confident and competent before participating in real data collection.
Wednesday to Friday – Active Research Days
These are your core project days. You’ll conduct structured reef surveys, training dives, or conservation tasks aligned with ongoing research objectives.
Saturday is kept flexible in case of bad weather or incomplete data collection. If all objectives are met, it becomes a fun-diving day — giving you the chance to explore local reefs recreationally.
Sunday is a full rest day.
A Typical Research Day
7:00 AM – Breakfast
Start the day with breakfast served at base.8:00 AM – Equipment Preparation
Prepare dive gear and review the day’s objectives.8:30 AM – Morning Dive Operations
Head into the water for training or survey dives. Activities are usually completed by 1:00 PM.1:00 PM – Lunch
Return for a well-earned, hearty lunch.Afternoon – Debrief & Data Analysis
Log dive data, assist with processing findings, participate in debrief sessions… and yes, many volunteers take a well-deserved nap.6:00 PM – Dinner
Dinner is served at base.Evening – Free Time
Relax, study identification materials, connect with fellow volunteers, or enjoy the peaceful coastal setting.Saturday Evenings
On Saturday nights, the team often heads out to dinner in Dauin to enjoy local restaurants. This is optional and at additional cost. Volunteers are welcome to remain at the base if preferred.
Your Impact as a Research Buddy
As a Research Buddy, you directly contribute to ongoing marine research projects that inform reef protection strategies and Marine Protected Area management.
Your participation helps:
• Collect accurate reef health data used in conservation planning
• Monitor coral disease, bleaching, and ecosystem shifts
• Support predator monitoring initiatives
• Strengthen scientific reporting and community awarenessBeyond conservation impact, you gain:
• International dive certifications
• Field research experience
• Species identification expertise
• Scientific communication skills
• Confidence working in a professional marine science environmentThis is not just volunteering — it is foundational training for a future in marine conservation.
Your Home in the Philippines – Sierra Resort, Dauin
During your time on our Research Buddy Program in the Philippines, you’ll stay at the trusted partner accommodation: Sierra Resort in Dauin — a comfortable beachfront base designed for both relaxation and recovery after full research days.
Room
Accommodation is provided on a shared basis, with two participants per room. Solo travellers will be matched with a same-sex roommate.If you prefer private occupancy, single rooms are available for an additional €89 per week.
Each room includes:
• Air conditioning
• Ensuite bathroom
• WiFi access
• Comfortable bedding
• Secure storage spaceFacilities
The resort is located directly on the beach and offers:
• Two swimming pools
• On-site bar and restaurant
• Beachfront access
• Pool table
• Communal social areas
• Optional karaoke evenings (when the mood strikes!)Meals
Two meals per day (Sunday–Friday) are included in your program fee. Saturday night is traditionally dinner out in Dauin (optional and at additional cost), giving volunteers the opportunity to experience local restaurants together.
A Balanced Experience
We understand that not everyone volunteering in marine conservation wants to live in a wooden jungle hut. Sierra Resort provides a comfortable, clean, and social environment — allowing you to balance intensive conservation work with rest, recovery, and a touch of tropical comfort.
This setting creates the perfect blend between meaningful volunteering and an unforgettable coastal experience.
History
Our trusted marine conservation partner was established to protect and restore coral reef ecosystems in one of the most biodiverse marine regions on Earth. Operating in the central Philippines, the organisation works closely with local communities, dive professionals, and conservation authorities to monitor reef health and promote sustainable marine management.
Through long-term research, reef surveys, and education initiatives, the organisation has built a reputation for combining scientific rigour with grassroots conservation.
Mission & Vision
The mission is to advance marine conservation through high-quality scientific research, sustainable dive training, and meaningful community engagement.
Their vision is to protect Indo-Pacific coral reefs for future generations by training the next generation of conservationists while empowering local communities with science-based knowledge.
Program Fee
Training + Project Options
Duration Fee (EUR)
2 weeks €1,495
3 weeks €2,139
4 weeks €2,783Already Advanced Open Water Certified?
If you are already certified to PADI Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) level, you may skip Training Week and join directly on Project Weeks.
Project Weeks are priced at: €644
Additional Training Options
For participants with limited or no scuba experience:
Training Week (Open Water + Advanced Open Water Certifications): €851
Optional additional certification:
EFR / Rescue Diver Training Week: €851
Accommodation Private Upgrade
Private room upgrade at Sierra Resort: €97
(Subject to availability)
Important Things To Note: All programs include a Travel Roots Service & Support Fee in addition to the listed program fee. This helps cover the support we provide before, during, and after your placement, including application guidance, partner coordination, pre-departure preparation, welcome pack support, and ongoing assistance throughout your journey.
Payment Terms
• Program fees are due 60 days before your start date
• If applying within 60 days of arrival, full payment is due within 48 hours of confirmation
What’s Included
Your program fee covers everything required for a safe, structured, and professional marine conservation experience:
✅ PADI Open Water & Advanced Open Water Diver certifications (including digital materials)
✅ 5-day coral reef ecology & physiology lecture series
✅ Coral, fish, benthic, invertebrate & disease identification workshops
✅ 30–40 training & survey dives per month (weather dependent)
✅ Marine Protected Area fees
✅ SCUBA & field equipment (excluding personal mask, fins, snorkel & wetsuit)
✅ Shared accommodation at Sierra Resort (2 per room)
✅ Two meals per day (Sun–Fri)
✅ 24-hour in-country support
✅ Internet access
✅ Airport/ferry pickup from Dumaguete
✅ Fair & Flexible Refund Policy✅ Certification of Completion
✅ So Much More
What’s Excluded
✖️ Flights
✖️ Visa costs (if required)
✖️ Travel insurance
✖️ Personal expenses
✖️ Additional tours or activities
✖️ Vaccinations (if required)
Your Investment in Marine Research, Conservation Education & Yourself
Joining our Research Buddy Program in the Philippines is far more than just a volunteer experience — it’s a meaningful investment in marine conservation, environmental education, and your own personal growth. Working alongside experienced conservation teams, you’ll gain valuable hands-on insight into marine research projects while supporting the protection of some of the world’s most biodiverse ocean ecosystems.
From assisting with reef monitoring and conservation activities to helping support educational initiatives and environmental awareness, your contribution plays an important role in protecting fragile marine habitats and inspiring future ocean stewardship.
Your program fees directly support:
• Marine conservation and coral reef research projects
• Ocean education and community awareness initiatives
• Environmental monitoring and biodiversity protection efforts
• Local employment, training, and conservation support
• Sustainable research equipment, field resources, and conservation facilitiesThis program gives you the opportunity to build meaningful conservation experience, develop transferable skills, and become part of a passionate mission dedicated to protecting the oceans of the Philippines.
Where You’ll Be – Dauin, Negros Oriental
Your placement is based in Dauin, a quiet coastal town just south of Dumaguete in the province of Negros Oriental.
Dauin is internationally recognised as one of the Philippines’ premier dive destinations, known for its thriving coral reefs, macro marine life, and healthy reef systems. The waters here form part of the Coral Triangle — the global epicentre of marine biodiversity.
You’ll be living directly on the beachfront at Sierra Resort, waking up to ocean views and walking just steps to the dive boat each morning. The relaxed coastal atmosphere makes it the perfect balance between focused conservation work and tropical island living.
Dumaguete, often called “The City of Gentle People,” is only a short drive away and offers cafés, markets, shopping malls, hospitals, and all essential amenities.
The Philippines – A Marine Biodiversity Hotspot
The Philippines is one of the most biologically diverse marine regions on Earth. With more than 7,000 islands, the country sits within the Coral Triangle and hosts:
• Over 500 species of reef-building coral
• Thousands of reef fish species
• Sea turtles, reef sharks, and pelagic predators
• Seagrass meadows and mangrove ecosystems
The tropical climate allows for year-round diving, with warm waters averaging 26–29°C. The dry season typically runs from November to May, offering ideal diving conditions.
Local Culture & Community
Filipino culture is known for its warmth, hospitality, and strong sense of community. Volunteers quickly feel welcomed and integrated into daily life.
In Dauin and Dumaguete, you’ll experience:
• Fresh seafood and local Filipino cuisine
• Colourful jeepneys and tricycles for local transport
• Vibrant local markets
• A blend of Spanish, American, and Southeast Asian influences
Living here means immersing yourself in both marine conservation work and authentic island culture — creating a truly well-rounded volunteer experience.
Free time Activities
& Tours
%20%C2%A9%20APE%20Malaysia%20Mark%20Louis%20Benedict_JPG.jpg)
Free Time Activities & Island Exploration
Your placement in Dauin offers the perfect balance between focused marine research and tropical adventure. On your days off — typically Sundays, and occasionally Saturdays — there is plenty to explore both above and below the surface.
Island Hopping & Snorkelling
Take a short boat trip to Apo Island, one of the Philippines’ most famous marine sanctuaries. Known for its thriving coral reefs and resident sea turtles, Apo Island offers world-class snorkelling and diving experiences.
Crystal-clear waters, vibrant reefs, and white-sand beaches make it an unforgettable day trip.
Waterfalls & Mountain Adventures
Explore the lush interior of Negros Oriental, home to stunning waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Popular excursions include:
• Casaroro Falls – A dramatic jungle waterfall adventure
• Pulangi Lake – A scenic volcanic lake perfect for kayaking and relaxing
For those who enjoy hiking, there are mountain trails offering panoramic views over the island.
Explore Dumaguete
Spend the day in Dumaguete, known as “The City of Gentle People.” Here you can:
• Visit local cafés and bakeries
• Explore seaside boulevard walks
• Shop at modern malls for essentials
• Experience lively evening street food scenes
It’s a relaxed university town atmosphere with a welcoming local vibe.
Relax & Recharge
Not every day off needs to be an adventure. Many volunteers choose to:
• Lounge by the pool at Sierra Resort
• Enjoy beachfront sunsets
• Read, study marine ID guides, or catch up on rest
• Socialise with fellow volunteers over dinner in Dauin
Whether you prefer island exploration, jungle adventures, cultural immersion, or simply relaxing by the ocean, your time in the Philippines will be filled with memorable experiences beyond the reef.
