Who We Are
Driven by a shared passion to empower underprivileged children, Empowering Brilliant Minds Foundation, Inc. was established with a vision to transform lives through education and development.
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We are committed to creating impactful community and school programs that provide opportunities for growth and a brighter future.
ANTON C. VERA
FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN
Anton Vera was just 16 years old when he founded the Empowering Brilliant Minds Foundation, Inc. (EBM). Today, he serves as Chairman of the Board, leading impactful programs aimed at uplifting underprivileged schools and students.
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Under Anton’s leadership, EBM has spearheaded several key initiatives, including:
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Building pre-school classrooms in various provinces, such as Cavite, Quezon, and Lanao del Norte.
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Providing uniform and rice subsidies to support students and their families.
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Enhancing curricula through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs.
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Developing sports programs and facilities to encourage physical education and teamwork.
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Launching health, sanitation, and nutrition projects to promote student well-being.
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Currently based in San Francisco, USA, Anton works in venture capital while continuing to oversee EBM’s projects in the Philippines. He is a proud graduate of Stanford University, where he earned a BA with honors.
ROSALINDA Y. BASAS
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & PRESIDENT
Rosalinda Y. Basas is a dedicated education expert with extensive experience in fostering growth and excellence among students and teachers. Since 2012, she has served as the Executive Director of the Empowering Brilliant Minds Foundation, Inc. (EBM) and is a member of its Board of Trustees. In her role, Rosalinda oversees EBM’s projects and ensures the successful execution of its activities.
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Career Accomplishments
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Education:
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Master of Arts in Education Administration, Philippine Normal University
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Completed Units and Comprehensive Exams in Doctoral Programs in Educational Administration (dissertation pending)
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Professional Experience:
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Faculty Member, Institución Teresiana School (1970–1971)
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Assistant High School Principal, Institución Teresiana School (1971–1981)
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Administrative Officer, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) (1993–1999)
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President, Teresian Association - Philippines (1999–2005)
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President, Saint Pedro Poveda College (2005–2007, 2021-present)
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General Council Member, Institución Teresiana, Rome (2006–2012)
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Current Leadership Roles:
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Board Secretary, Council of the Laity of the Philippines (2016–present)
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Board Secretary, Institución Teresiana de Educación y Cultura, Inc.
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Vice President, Institución Teresiana de Educación y Cultura, Inc. (2019–present)
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Rosalinda’s lifelong commitment to education and leadership continues to shape EBM’s mission of empowering communities and inspiring change.
Board of Trustees
H.E. CARDINAL LUIS ANTONIO TAGLE D.D.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle is a prominent Filipino Roman Catholic leader known for his humility, theological depth, and commitment to social justice. Born on June 21, 1957, he has served in key roles, including Archbishop of Manila (2011–2020) and Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization in the Vatican since 2020. Beyond his pastoral duties, Cardinal Tagle is actively involved in several foundations and initiatives. He was the President of Caritas Internationalis (2015-2022), a global confederation of Catholic charities dedicated to serving the poor and promoting human dignity. Cardinal Tagle’s advocacy for the marginalized and his emphasis on mercy and inclusivity have made him a leading voice in the Catholic Church worldwide.
VICTORIA ELISA A. DEE
Victoria Elisa Aquino-Dee is a Filipino businesswoman and philanthropist actively involved in initiatives that support education, healthcare, and social welfare. She plays a key role in the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Foundation, which promotes democracy and good governance, and is a supporter of the Ninoy and Cory Aquino Foundation, focusing on community development and empowerment.
ATTY. AISSA V. ENCARNACION
Atty. Aissa V. Encarnacion is a seasoned legal expert with extensive experience in law, business, and education. She earned her Bachelor of Laws from the University of the Philippines, College of Law in 1992 and was admitted to the Philippine Bar in 1993.
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In addition to her legal practice, Ms. Encarnacion serves as a Professorial Lecturer at the University of the Philippines, College of Business Administration, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, majoring in Finance and Marketing.
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Fundraising Committee
PAOLO C. VERA
CHAIRPERSON
Paolo Vera brings a dynamic blend of experience in real estate development, community building, and venture capital to the Empowering Brilliant Minds Foundation. His passion for innovation extends to his role as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Kaya Founders, where he supports early-stage startups and ideates his own ventures aimed at meaningful impact in the Philippines.
Having returned to the Philippines after nearly a decade abroad, earning a bachelor's degree in economics and a master’s in public policy at Stanford University, Paolo is deeply invested in the country’s growth story.
As Head of the Fundraising Committee, Paolo leverages his extensive network and expertise in building meaningful connections to amplify the Foundation’s mission. With a proven track record of rallying support for causes that matter, he is driven to empower the next generation of brilliant minds and create opportunities that transform lives.
Volunteers
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Tuazon, Ayrish
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Corpuz, Allan
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Guevarra, Catalina
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Montesa, Ma. Teresa
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Casalan, Rowena
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Namuca, Jose
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Valencia, Arnel
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Listed are the current active volunteers.
