This Fire Prevention Month, the Metrobank Foundation (MBFI) reminds communities that safety is a shared responsibility, beginning with daily vigilance, backed by preparedness and the readiness to serve.

In January 2025, the MBFI donated an 8,000-liter capacity stainless-steel fire tanker to support fire response—and help in the delivery of clean water during times of shortage, as volunteerism and commitment to service within the brigade extend beyond fire emergencies.

“The tanker is a symbol of trust and partnership. Every deployment must be professional, purposeful, and with care. It reminds us that our responsibility is to the community,” Fire Marshal Director and Public Information Officer John Michael Reyes said.

For MBFI President Philip Francisco Dy, the partnership demonstrates the importance of empowering frontliners and promoting preparedness among the public.

“Fire Prevention Month reminds us that safety is a shared responsibility. By supporting community-based responders like SAMFRVAI, we hope to empower those on the frontlines while encouraging every household to remain vigilant and prepared,” he said.

Brotherhood, empowerment in the face of danger

In Manila, where narrow streets and densely-populated areas encumber firefighting, the blazes are not the biggest threat, but smoke—the inhalation of which may lead to suffocation.

“Many people think flames are the biggest threat, but most lives are lost because of smoke and suffocation. That’s why every escape plan, every safety measure, and every fire drill is important,” Reyes explained.

For the fire volunteers of San Andres, courage is rarely a strength experienced individually, but is drawn from unity.

“We encourage each other, empower each other to do better,” Reyes shares.

“When someone feels unsure, the others guide them, mentor them, remind them that no one faces the fire alone,” he added.

In high-stakes circumstances requiring split-second decisions, volunteers recognize that their safety and success depend on those they work alongside—and on the trust they place in them.

“Knowing that your fellow volunteers are ready to support you gives you the confidence to face danger head-on,” Training Officer, Officer-in-Charge, and Brigade Director James Paul Benzon said, adding that the San Andres brigade is more than an organization—it is family.

“It is a family. Every member’s life depends on the other. Together, we motivate one another, lift each other up, and celebrate every small success,” he said.

Commitment to and fulfillment in service

Fighting to quell fires is no easy task, with blazes triggering adrenaline, chaos, and hostility in some circumstances, Reyes said.

“Yet, what drives us is the passion to serve—helping others, protecting homes, and saving lives,” he shared.

“It’s about commitment to the community, not recognition. Every mission reminds us why we began volunteering in the first place,” Benzon added.

The 8,000-liter tanker also comes in handy during water shortages, helping carry large amounts.

“With the new tanker, our reach expanded. It’s not just about putting out fires. It’s about extending our service wherever help is needed,” Benzon explained.

In spite of the dangers and long hours, the fire volunteers find fulfillment in protecting lives and mentoring young brigade members, helping them hone the skills and build the discipline necessary for such a role.

“We do this for our brothers and sisters in the community. We give back without expecting anything in return. And when a life is saved, that is reward enough,” said Benzon.

A community’s responsibility

Despite fire volunteers’ dedication to their communities, the community shares in the responsibility of fire safety, every day.

Prevention is better than, and so communities must remain vigilant wherever they are—whether at home, school, or in the workplace.

“Participating in fire drills, maintaining safe electrical systems, and practicing emergency preparedness are small but powerful steps that everyone can take,” the MBFI said in a press release.

“Fire prevention is a mindset,” Benzon said. “It’s about being vigilant every day, not just during Fire Prevention Month. Safety should always come first.”