Emans 3rd AGM
Highlights Achievements and Future Plans ,
Man Ho Restaurant, Manila Marriott Hotel in Newport World Resorts, Pasay City
The Epsilon Mu Alpha Association, Inc. (EMAA) marked another important milestone during its 3rd Annual General Members Meeting held at Man Ho Restaurant in Pasay City last November 28, 2024, where President Lauro F. Bayrante presented the organization’s accomplishments, leadership developments, and strategic directions for the coming years.
Founded in 2022, EMA Association continues to advance its mission of promoting the sciences of geology, mining, and metallurgical engineering while fostering responsible development and utilization of mineral and energy resources. The President’s Report highlighted how the association successfully carried out its programs during 2024 despite operating with limited resources.
Strengthening Governance and Leadership
A key development during the meeting was the successful nomination and election of nine (9) new Board of Trustees for the 2025–2027 term. The transition ensures continuity in leadership and reinforces the association’s commitment to strong governance and active member participation.
The gathering also marked several historic milestones for the organization, including the first in-person oath-taking ceremony for newly elected trustees and members, as well as the association’s first major gathering in Metro Manila since its revival.
Financial Stability and Member Support
EMAA reported steady financial growth supported by voluntary fundraising initiatives and prudent financial management. From a modest seed fund of approximately Php 65,996 in 2021, the association’s financial resources have grown significantly over the past three years to Php 264,000, strengthening its capacity to sustain programs and initiatives.
Expanding Membership and Engagement
Membership development remained a major focus in 2024. The association welcomed seven (7) new members, including young professionals and recent graduates from institutions such as Mapúa University and the University of Southeastern Philippines.
To foster stronger relationships within the organization, EMMA also hosted member gatherings in Cavite and Bulacan, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional exchange.
Supporting Academic and Professional Development
One of EMMA’s most impactful contributions during the year was its support for geology students preparing for the geology licensure examination (GLE). Members conducted in-person review sessions and delivered technical lectures covering topics such as remote sensing, geophysical exploration methods, seismic data analysis, and geothermal resource development.
Students also benefited from educational visits to major government institutions including the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, and the Department of Energy, providing valuable exposure to real-world applications of geological science.
Further strengthening its partnership with academia, EMAA donated specialized microscope attachments to the Geo/GSE Petrolab of Mapúa University. The petro-microscope camera attachment enhances the laboratory’s capability to analyze rock and mineral samples, supporting the training of future geologists.
Communication and Knowledge Sharing
Throughout the year, EMAA maintained strong communication with its members through quarterly “Kumustahan” meetings and a series of technical talks. The association also upgraded its website to provide regular updates on programs, professional activities, and member achievements.
Looking Ahead
As the organization continues to grow, EMAA outlined a number of strategic goals for the coming years. These include expanding membership, establishing student affiliate groups, strengthening partnerships with industry and government agencies, and organizing technical conferences that will promote knowledge exchange in the geosciences.
President Bayrante expressed appreciation to the Board of Trustees and the members whose dedication made the year’s achievements possible. He emphasized that EMAA’s progress reflects the collective commitment of its members to advancing scientific knowledge and promoting responsible resource development.
Contributed by: Lauro Bayrante
EMA Association Marks Historic Milestones and Future Vision in Closing Remarks at Annual Gathering
The Epsilon Mu Alpha Association (EMAA) concluded its 3rd Annual General Meeting and reunion last November 28, 2024 at Man Ho Restaurant, Pasay with an inspiring closing message delivered by President Lauro F. Bayrante, highlighting the organization’s remarkable journey of revival, growth, and renewed commitment to excellence.
In his address, President Bayrante reflected on the long and resilient history of EMANS as a fraternity, an organization founded in 1937 that has played a significant role in fostering camaraderie and professional development among its members. He noted that while EMANS experienced challenges over the years—including a recruitment hiatus following the membership ban in 2001 and disruptions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic—the organization remained steadfast in preserving its legacy.
According to Bayrante, the reunion of EMANS members in 2018 rekindled the organization’s spirit, leading to the formal revival of EMANS through the EMA Association in 2022. Since then, the group has undergone a meaningful transformation, evolving from a traditional fraternity into a dynamic professional association that promotes collaboration, inclusivity, and service to the academic and professional community.
The event also marked several historic milestones for EMAA. Among these were the inaugural oath-taking ceremony of seven (7) new members, the first in-person oath-taking of the newly elected Board of Trustees, and the first in-person gathering of members in Metro Manila since the organization’s revival. The evening also celebrated the election of FOMI President Sonny Sebial and PRO Nyong Lazo to the EMA Association Board of Trustees, further strengthening ties within the professional community. Hosting the Annual General Meeting at the Marriott Hotel symbolized the association’s renewed momentum and growth.
Bayrante also highlighted the organization’s accomplishments during the past three years. EMANS recorded significant financial growth, expanding its seed fund from Php 65,996 in 2021 to Php 264,756, representing a 400-percent increase that now supports its programs and activities. Membership engagement has also improved, with the recruitment of seven new members from Mapúa University (MU) and the University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP). In addition, the association increased member gatherings from one to three annually and recognized outstanding members through the “Dirty Dozen Legacy Awards”, presented to Brods Marc Campos and Al Diaz.
Beyond organizational growth, EMA Association has also strengthened its role in academic and professional development. The association actively supported geology graduates through Geology Licensure Examination (GLE) reviews, collaborated with Mapúa’s Geology Department to enhance curriculum and facilities, and maintained transparency through a regular update of the association’s website.
Looking ahead, Bayrante outlined a strategic vision leading up to the organization’s Centennial Celebration in 2037. Key priorities include expanding membership to at least 100 new members, establishing EMAA affiliate organizations in schools, developing sustainable fundraising programs, and building partnerships with mining companies, government agencies, and non-government organizations to create opportunities for internships, research, and professional training.
Additional medium-term initiatives include organizing the first MGM Technical Conference, improving professional licensure exam performance among members, and training 12 Accredited Competent Persons (ACPs) across related professions by 2037. Long-term goals also envision the re-establishment of the School of Mines at Mapúa, the issuance of official EMANS membership IDs, and the organization of international reunions every three years.
In closing, Bayrante expressed his gratitude to the EMAA Board of Trustees and members whose dedication made the organization’s revival possible. He gave special recognition to key supporters and emphasized that the association’s achievements were the result of collective effort and shared commitment.
“As we move forward,” Bayrante said, “let us continue to work with purpose and passion, united in our mission to shape the legacy of EMANS for generations to come.”
With renewed energy and a clear roadmap for the future, EMANS stands poised to strengthen its contributions to the professional community while honoring a proud tradition that spans nearly nine decades.
Contributed by: Lauro F. Bayrante