Dr. Manuel Vallesteros is best known for his heavyweight lectures packed with humor on the practice of pediatric dentistry. He is loved dearly for being straightforward and vocal about community programs conducted by local chapters, with emphasis on proper oral health promotion and levels of pediatric health care.

A shortlist of his countless achievements include:

1. Outstanding Alumnus of the Century For Public Service (1915-2015) awarded by UP Manila College of Dentistry (UPCD) and UP Dental Alumni Association (UPDAA)
2. First Prize Winner, and Fourth International Recognition Award by the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry for the Bright Smiles Bright Futures Award Program awarded in 2005 and 2001, respectively
3. Recognized as the Most Outstanding Affiliate Society President for the Philippine Pediatric Dental Society, Inc (PPDSI), and in Academe, by the Philippine Dental Association in 2001 and 2000, respectively

For the longest time, Dr. Noel has been the Chairman of the Philippine Dental Association Awards Committee, an avenue where locally appropriate and culturally sensitive community programs are recognized. Currently, he is the Chairman of the Public Health Committee of the PPDSI. He is preoccupied brainstorming with the nation’s oral health advocates for programs to address the oral health needs of children, especially those with special health care needs in this time of pandemic.