DR. CARMELO J. Esteban, former vice president for Research, Extension, and Business of the Mariano Marcos State University, was one of the Outstanding Ilocano awardees for 2022.

He was recognized by The Ilocos Times for his integrity, competence and “undying resolve for people empowerment.”

The Ilocos Times cited Esteban’s sterling qualities as a civil servant and educator who worked in “classrooms with no corners and boundaries so that power, in the true spirit of democracy, can be exercised responsibly by all and to everyone’s benefit.”

During his stay in MMSU, he also served as vice president for planning and development, and dean of the College of Agriculture, Food, and Sustainable Development.

Aside from being a well-respected guru in rural development, Dr. Esteban is also an expert in sociology and community development — finds most meaningful his “Exploration of Paramanagers in Rural Development.”