PETITION TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Request for Urgent Support for Volunteer Fire Brigades in Metro Manila, Philippines

To:
The United States Department of State
2201 C Street NW
Washington, DC 20520

Subject: Emergency Assistance and On-the-Ground Training Support for Volunteer Fire Brigades in Metro Manila

 
I, Brian Jones, a U.S. citizen and veteran fire service officer, respectfully petition the United States Department of State to urgently assist volunteer fire brigades operating in Metro Manila, Philippines.

I have been directly contacted by volunteer fire officials in the region who are desperately seeking support and have formally asked me to serve as a boots-on-the-ground training officer. Their needs are urgent, and their lives—and the lives of those they protect—are at serious risk due to a lack of proper resources and support.

 
Situation Overview
Metro Manila is home to over 13 million people, many of whom live in densely packed, informal housing where fires are frequent and often catastrophic—particularly in the poorest regions these volunteers protect.
Volunteer fire brigades fill critical response gaps, often arriving on scene faster than government units, yet they lack the minimum protective gear, equipment, and standardized training to operate safely.
These firefighters work without pay, often using recycled or outdated tools, and many have suffered serious injuries or loss of life simply due to insufficient gear.
They have asked me personally to assist with training, assessments, and development of safety procedures—a mission I am prepared to begin immediately if given formal support.
 
My Request to the U.S. Department of State
I respectfully urge the Department of State to:

Recognize and support my appointment as an American training officer to assist volunteer fire brigades in Metro Manila in person.
Facilitate humanitarian support to these brigades, including the delivery of surplus or newly designated equipment (PPE, hoses, breathing apparatus, fire extinguishers, trauma kits, etc.).
Coordinate with U.S. fire professionals or departments willing to donate time, training, or materials, under a cooperative and transparent channel.
Consider a formal advisory or humanitarian liaison role that would allow for a sustained U.S. presence in support of these life-saving units.
Include volunteer emergency services in bilateral conversations around U.S.-Philippines humanitarian and public safety cooperation.
 
Why This Matters
These volunteer brigades are the last line of defense for many vulnerable communities. They are brave, dedicated, and deeply in need. I have seen firsthand the conditions under which they operate and have been entrusted by them to help correct this tragedy before more lives are lost.

I am willing to deploy immediately, under the appropriate capacity, and work directly with both local and U.S. partners to stabilize and improve this essential public safety network. All I ask is that the U.S. Department of State recognize the urgency—and provide the platform and support to make this mission possible.

 
Respectfully submitted,
Brian P. Jones
Engine Captain / Type III Incident Commander
b.jones2305@gmail.com