Former SBMA chair named distinguished alumna

Story and Photos by JONAS REYES

OLONGAPO CITY – Former Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Wilma T. Eisma was recognized as one of the eminent graduates of the St. Joseph’s School (now St. Joseph College) in this city during the 75th founding anniversary of the academy here on Saturday, March 18.

The former government official and lawyer received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for law, finance and public administration. Eisma, who graduated from the SJS high school in 1985, was described by teachers as one of the brightest students during her time.

Former SBMA Chairman Wilma “Amy” T. Eisma expresses gratitude for her recognition as a distinguished alumna of St. Joseph’s School

Also cited as distinguished alumni along Eisma were: Doctor Jesse Jewel Manuel of Batch 1982, for medicine and public health; Marcos Danilo Piano, Batch 1976, information technology and academe; Caroline Leyva Stickles, Batch 1978, volunteerism and program management; and Sylvanna Dimen Fulache, Batch 1980, transportation and public service.

Fondly called Amy by her peers, Eisma was one of the fresh graduates who responded to the call for volunteers at the Subic Bay Freeport when former Senator Richard Gordon became the first SBMA chairman and administrator in 1991.

Eisma came full circle at the Freeport when she was appointed SBMA administrator in December 2016 and later as SBMA chairman and administrator almost a year later.

The first female chief of the SBMA is recognized, among others, for bringing cruise tourism to Subic, as well as for her pro-active programs that kept the Subic Freeport economically sustainable during the years of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Former SBMA Chairman Wilma “Amy” T. Eisma with fellow awardees (L-R): Dr. Jesse Jewel Manuel, Sylvanna Dimen Fulache, Caroline Leyva Stickles, and Marcos Danilo Piano

During the recognition rites, SJC Alumni Affairs Director Imelda Tulio-Lampazo expressed the school’s appreciation of the awardees’ achievements in their respective fields of endeavor.

“We hope this recognition will serve as a testament to their outstanding achievements and inspire future generations of St. Joseph College-Olongapo alumni to strive for excellence,” she added.

Following her receipt of the award, Eisma said on social media that she was “humbled and honored” and thanked those who believed in her and supported her along the way.

“Mom, here is another one!” she told mother Clarita Eisma, noting that her college alma mater University of Sto. Tomas gave her the same honor in 2019. ~

Leave a comment