| Name | Samuel L. Mendoza Jr. |
|---|---|
| Born | November 26, 1992 (32 years and 8 days) |
| Hometown | La Trinidad, Benguet |
| Residence | Quirino Hill, Baguio City |
| Nationality | Filipino |
| Ethnicity | Kankanaey (Roots in Tadian, Mountain Province and Pasil, Kalinga) |
| Occupation | Public School Teacher, Football Referee |
| Known For | First Igorot referee in the Philippine Football League (PFL) |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree in Education, Benguet State University (2013) |
| Years Active | 11+ years in teaching, football refereeing |
| Affiliations | Cordillera Regional Football Association |
| Family | Married with 2 children |
| Notable Achievements | Officiated in the Palarong Pambansa; Japan Exchange Program participant (2017) |
Samuel L. Mendoza Jr. stands out as a significant figure in the Philippine football community. As the first Igorot referee in the Philippine Football League (PFL), he embodies the aspirations and determination of many athletes from the Cordillera region. Born on November 26, 1992, in La Trinidad, Benguet, Mendoza currently resides in Quirino Hill, Baguio City. He proudly identifies as Kankanaey, with roots tracing back to Tadian, Mountain Province, and Pasil, Kalinga.
Educational Background and Career
Mendoza graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Benguet State University in 2013. He has spent over eleven years in the education sector as a public school teacher under the Department of Education (DepEd). His passion for teaching is matched by his commitment to mentoring young football enthusiasts and sharing his expertise within the Cordillera Regional Football Association.
In reflecting on his career journey, Mendoza noted,
"My family inspires me to pursue my career because my parents always want us to be successful and productive in our own unique ways."
This support has been instrumental in his dedication to both teaching and officiating football matches.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite his achievements, Mendoza has faced significant obstacles. The geographical challenges of his home region often hindered access to training and workshops, leading him to nearly give up his refereeing career. Yet, his unwavering determination pushed him to persevere.
"For the years of waiting my referees career due to our geographical location, it's far from our venues and we were not easily called to trainings and workshops," he shared.
His commitment to the sport is evident in his advocacy work, where he aims to promote local football leagues in Baguio and Benguet. Mendoza hopes to expand these opportunities to other provinces in the region and is actively looking to conduct weekend workshops for aspiring referees.
Awards and Recognition
Mendoza's dedication has not gone unnoticed. He has received several accolades, including an "Athlete of the Year" award during his collegiate years and recognition as one of the top referees in his category at various training sessions. Most recently, he excelled in the fitness category at the PFL referee refresher course in Carmona, Cavite, in 2023.
His future aspirations include continuing to officiate at high-profile events, having already been part of the prestigious Palarong Pambansa in Cebu City.
"To be one of the referees in the Philippine Football League here in our country as Cordilleran," he stated, underlining his ambition to elevate the representation of his heritage in sports.
A Vision for the Future
Mendoza envisions a future where more referees from the Cordillera region participate in higher-level competitions.
"We have a lot of good and talented referees here in our region but only a few are chosen to be on the top," he said, emphasizing his goal to mentor and inspire younger generations.
His participation in the Japan Exchange Program in 2017 as part of a drug prevention initiative also reflects his commitment to community welfare. Mendoza seeks to instill values of discipline and responsibility in his students and peers, emphasizing that
"nothing is impossible as long as you have the passion and will to be what you want to be."
The Impact of Cultural Identity
Mendoza takes great pride in his cultural identity as an Igorot. He believes that the Igorot community is unique, characterized by resilience, dreams, and determination.
"We are not just Igorots with different cultures and traditions but we are competitive, full of dreams and determination which makes us proud of our tribe, our region, and our family," he expressed.
His journey is a testament to the possibilities that lie ahead for young Igorots who look up to him.
"Your passion and your skill are there, but your determination to be successful is essential for your career path," he advises.
Mendoza actively engages with his followers on social media platforms, sharing insights on culture, education, and lifestyle. With over 2.6k followers across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, he aims to promote Igorot culture and values, creating a positive impact on the community.
Through his work as an educator and referee, Samuel L. Mendoza Jr. continues to inspire and uplift those around him, leaving a legacy of commitment and passion for the sport and the cultural identity he represents.
