Remembering a Trailblazer :
Evelyn Balmeo-Salire ' s Enduring Influence in Association Management
By Mayan Sangil | PRA Deputy Secretary General for Advocacy & Communications
For 47 years , the Philippine Retailers Association ( PRA ) has been a dynamic force shaping the landscape of local retail . Its stage is often graced by industry giants , maintaining its role as a beacon for initiatives and advocacies that define the industry . Over the years , it has evolved into a powerhouse , boasting a membership exceeding 400 companies and propelling forward flagship programs designed to foster the growth of its members while championing the voice of the local retail sector .
At the heart of this remarkable journey of achievements stands Evelyn Balmeo-Salire , the distinguished Secretary General of the PRA , whose unwavering dedication has spanned an impressive 29 years of service to the association . Undoubtedly , she has become the face of the PRA ; at the mere mention of the association , most people instinctively associate it with Evelyn . Her enduring commitment has been the catalyst for the harmonized growth of the PRA and its myriad programs .
As we remember her impactful work at the PRA and the positive influence she brought not just to the association but also to the many individuals she encountered , we remain forever grateful and proud of her for shaping the PRA into what it is today .
In bidding a fitting farewell and tribute to Ms . Salire , or as most of us fondly know her , Ms . Ebbs , we are honored to humbly share how she has been an integral part of the association . As our manager , mentor , and dear friend to many in the retail industry , Ms . Ebbs has played a significant role in our lives .
Devoted Service
Ms . Ebbs began her journey in association management in 1986 when she assumed the role of Publications Assistant at the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry ( PCCI ). In the nascent stages of her career , she demonstrated exceptional acumen that quickly set her apart . Within a mere two years , she ascended to a managerial position , tasked with overseeing Publications and Business Assistance and Information Services .
The next chapter of her narrative unfolded at the PRA in 1994 , where she became the Project Manager for the first Philippine Franchise Expo . Her strategic brilliance shone as the event not only succeeded but laid the foundation for the annual Philippine Franchise Conference and Expo ( PFCE ).
The turning point of her career arrived in 1995 when Ms . Ebbs stepped into the role of Secretary General at PRA . With a clear vision and unyielding determination , she revived the National Retail Conference & Expo ( NRCE ), transforming it into the association ’ s flagship program . Under her stewardship , the organization blossomed from a modest 2-person team renting office space to a 9-member secretariat housed in a prime Ortigas Center office building – a tangible testament to her transformative leadership .
Simultaneously , Ms . Ebbs played a pivotal role in the establishment and management of the Philippine Franchise Association ( PFA ) in 1995 , where she also served as Secretary General until 2001 . Effectively juggling responsibilities for the two associations , she managed both PRA and PFA , seamlessly sharing the resources of PRA for the benefit of PFA programs . This showcased an exemplary model of collaboration and shared success .
Among Ms . Ebbs ’ many contributions to the association , her exceptional ability to network and forge partnerships stands out as one of her greatest strengths . Behind the numerous partnerships and collaborations that supported the PRA over the years , Ms . Ebbs has been the driving force . The association ’ s growth and success owe much to her sustained efforts in fostering beneficial collaborations with diverse partners and industries .
Her advocacy for the professionalization of the secretariat resonated not just within the confines of PRA but reverberated throughout the industry . Over the years , the PRA board of directors worked together with the Secretariat , entrusting Ms . Ebbs with the important role of orchestrating the association ’ s growth and ensuring its continued relevance . In her capacity as the Secretary General , she personified the transformative impact of allowing an association executive to excel in their domain – expertly managing and guiding the association to sustained significance for both its members and the industry it represents .
Ms . Ebbs ’ unwavering dedication and passion for her work garnered recognition on the regional stage . In 2015 , she was bestowed with the Philippine Council of Associations and Association Executives ’ ( PCAAE ) first Association Executive of the Year Award . Her star continued to rise , culminating in being named the Association Executive of the Year at the inaugural APAC Association Awards in 2017 , and subsequently securing the accolade for a second time in 2019 .
A Lasting Legacy
Reflecting on my years working alongside her , I am reminded of a lesson she consistently imparted – that by working together , we can accomplish more and achieve greater heights . “ Strength in numbers ,” she would say , a mantra perfectly aligned with an association fueled by a shared mission and vision .
For us at the PRA Secretariat , working with Ms . Ebbs has been a privilege . Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping us , both professionally and personally . While there have been inevitable ups and downs , it is undeniable that we all have experienced significant growth under her leadership . Perhaps unbeknownst to her , Ms . Ebbs has been our silent mentor , teaching us to aspire to be the best versions of ourselves . As we bid her farewell , we carry forward not just the legacy she leaves behind but also the valuable lessons she embedded in our journey .
We celebrate not just the milestones she achieved but the profound impact she had on shaping the landscape of association management . Ms . Ebbs leaves behind a rich legacy imbued with wisdom , resilience , and an enduring commitment to excellence – an inspirational testament that will continue to motivate individuals and resonate with generations to come .