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Virgilio M. Calajate
Public Service
A dedicated public servant, an accomplished businessman,
and a steadfast leader, Hon. Virgilio M. Calajate
has spent three decades championing the welfare of his people. Beginning his
journey as Barangay Captain of Gabut Norte in 1993, he led with commitment and
vision, transforming his community into a model of governance, sustainability,
and peace.
In 2023, under his leadership, Gabut
Norte stood alone as the only barangay in Badoc to obtain the Seal
of Good Local Governance for Barangay—a testament to his
dedication to effective governance. By 2024, through his support, inspiration,
and mentorship, three barangays followed suit, earning the same
prestigious recognition.
Elected as ABC President of Badoc in 2016,
he played a key role in strengthening local governance and driving initiatives
that uplift communities. His exceptional backing for law enforcement and public
safety was recognized by the Ilocos Norte Provincial Police Office,
which named him one of the province’s Most Supportive Local Officials
for his efforts in maintaining peace and order.
Beyond public service, he is a distinguished entrepreneur,
leading JVC Consortium, a multi-industry business
engaged in transportation, petroleum, food and beverage, agriculture, and
retail. More than a business leader, he has espoused social
responsibility, ensuring that his enterprises serve not just as
economic drivers but also as instruments of community development,
providing jobs and support to various initiatives that benefit the people of
Badoc. His influence extends to the energy sector, having served as a two-term
INEC Director from 2007 to 2013.
For his service, leadership, and deep commitment to the
progress of Badoc, Ilocos Norte, The Ilocos Times proudly
honors Hon. Virgilio M. Calajate as the 2025
Outstanding Ilocano for Public Service and grants him a
well-deserved place in its Hall of Fame.
Edgar Madamba†
Fashion
A true luminary in Philippine fashion, Edgar Madamba left
an indelible mark on the industry, bringing Ilocano artistry to the national
and global stage. With his signature use of abel Iloko, he masterfully blended
tradition with contemporary elegance, ensuring that the rich textile heritage
of Ilocos Norte lived on in every piece he created.
With his iconic designs, he mentored and inspired
generations of fashion designers, imparting technical skills and a deep
reverence for Filipino craftsmanship. Though he passed in 2023, his legacy
remains vibrant—woven into the very fabric of Ilocano culture and celebrated in
the artistry of those he has influenced.
In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to fashion
and cultural preservation, The Ilocos Times posthumously honors Edgar Madamba
as Outstanding Ilocano for Fashion.
Norma Respicio
Arts and Heritage
As an eminent scholar on textiles, she dedicated her life
to the research, documentation, and advocacy of Philippine weaving traditions,
particularly Abel Iloko, ensuring their preservation and continued recognition.
Dr. Respicio has been instrumental in connecting artisans,
scholars, and policymakers to create sustainable programs for textile
preservation and cultural education. Her books, studies, and mentorship
continue to inspire the next generation of historians, designers, and heritage
advocates, ensuring that the legacy of Ilocano weaving thrives for years to
come.
Her pioneering work has provided a deeper understanding of
Ilocano weaving as an enduring heritage that reflects the skill and ingenuity
of its artisans. Through meticulous primary research, she played a crucial role
in the recognition of Nana Magdalena Gamayo as a National Living Treasure,
bringing much-deserved honor to Ilocano weavers and strengthening efforts to
preserve their craft.
For her lifelong dedication to the arts, heritage, and
cultural preservation of Ilocos and the Philippines, The Ilocos Times proudly
honors Dr. Norma Respicio as the 2025 Outstanding Ilocano for Arts and
Heritage.
Dr. Jose Y. Cueto Jr.
Education and Medicine
A distinguished surgeon, medical educator, and public
servant, Dr. Jose Y. Cueto Jr. has significantly contributed to healthcare and
professional regulation in the Philippines. As the founding dean of the Mariano
Marcos State University College of Medicine, he laid the groundwork for a
premier institution dedicated to producing competent and compassionate
physicians.
Moreover, he has played a crucial role in shaping the
medical profession, having served as Chairman of the Professional Regulatory
Board of Medicine and currently as a Commissioner of the Professional
Regulation Commission. His leadership has strengthened the integrity of
professional licensure and regulatory frameworks nationally and in ASEAN.
For his outstanding contributions to medicine, education,
and public service, The Ilocos Times proudly honors Dr. Jose Y. Cueto Jr. as
the 2025 Outstanding Ilocano for Education and Medicine.
Agbiag, our 2025 Outstanding
Ilocanos for 2025! May their greatness of spirit and legacy of service to
Ilocos and beyond inspire us all.