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Summer Study Tour in the Philippines: A Unique Experience for Students

The international organization Free The Children Japan is excited to announce its upcoming study tours to the Philippines in July and September 2026, aimed at high school and university students. These tours provide an opportunity to engage with local communities in meaningful ways, promoting international cooperation and awareness of global issues.

Overview of the Study Tours

July 30 Departure: Engaging with Children and Learning About International Cooperation

This 7-day tour, designed for students from middle school through university, will take place from July 30 to August 5, 2026. Participants will experience life in a local Aeta Indigenous village, engage in activities with local children, and visit various communities impacted by poverty and social issues.

Participants can expect to:

• - Stay with Aeta families and immerse in their culture.
• - Visit schools and organizations working with at-risk children, offering a firsthand perspective on their lives.
• - Understand the concepts of fair trade by exploring local farms and production sites, contributing to discussions on how to make a difference.

The cost for this trip is set at ¥260,000 for older students, with early bird discounts available until May 25, 2026. Additional fees for necessary travel expenses like airport taxes are estimated to be around ¥50,000.

September 3 Departure: Meeting Professionals in International Cooperation

Tailored for university students and those interested in working overseas, this 8-day study tour runs from September 3 to September 10, 2026. Participants will dive deeper into the realities of international cooperation by visiting Aeta communities, educational facilities, and meeting with professionals at various Japanese companies and international organizations.

The program includes:

• - Engaging with local children and understanding their challenges in poverty.
• - Visiting organizations like JICA and learning from individuals working on social issues.
• - Encouraging students to think about how their careers can intersect with social justice and international development.

The trip cost for this program is ¥258,000 with similar additional expenses as the July tour. An early bird discount is available until June 12, 2026.

Online Pre-Information Sessions

To provide prospective participants with more information, Free The Children Japan will host online sessions where detailed itineraries and the organization’s mission will be discussed.

• - Dates include May 19 and June 5, 2026, covering both tours. All interested individuals are encouraged to attend.

Who Should Join?

These tours cater to individuals who:

• - Seek genuine experiences rather than conventional tourism.
• - Want to connect directly with children and local communities facing diverse challenges.
• - Are curious about the workings of fair trade.
• - Desire to understand and engage in discussions about poverty, education, and the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

Participant Testimonials

Previous participants have spoken about how these tours changed their perspectives on global issues. One middle school student reflected on the warmth of the local community despite challenging circumstances. A high school student shared transformative insights on social issues, moving beyond textbook knowledge to real-life awareness.

How to Apply

The application process includes an optional online information session, followed by a request for detailed travel conditions. Interested individuals can apply through Free The Children's website or contact them for further inquiries.

For detailed information about the tours and how to participate, visit Free The Children Japan. Join us in exploring the world while making a positive impact!

The experiences gained in these tours pave the way for personal growth and a deeper understanding of global issues, providing tools for future endeavors in both international cooperation and career choices.