How you can help

FAME often gets asked “How can I help?” or told “I’d like to volunteer” and generally, people are hoping to help out with maintenance of the Bataan Death March Markers. And while we are eager to have more helping hands, there are some things to consider before asking. For example, understand that the vast majority of these markers exist in Bataan — at least 100 of the markers are there. While 31 are in Pampanga and 7 are in Tarlac. These areas can all be a challenge to get to without transportation, and unfortunately, FAME can not provide transportation.

In addition, many of the markers are located in areas with limited or no supplies nearby, so all supplies must be brought in — that includes paint and brushes, but also water for cleaning the markers. The time of year when the work can be done is also limited. In general, FAME avoids rainy season trips for obvious reasons, and other times of the year the heat makes it impossible to work for any length of time during the day. Finally, FAME discourages attempts to maintain the markers unless you are working directly with FAME staff. We have experience gained through many years of effort and we can make sure that your efforts are not wasted by using inappropriate cleaning materials or methods, and avoid chipping paint or permanent damage to the marker by using the wrong kind of paints.

For that reason, we ask that you refrain from working without our supervision.

Reading this may discourage you, but please consider that it IS possible to join us in our mission. We just need to be realistic about how that is done. And you can always donate any sum of money to our fund to allow us to complete our work.

Thank you for your interest and support.

FAME Board of Directors