Starting Point
Froilyn T. Mendoza was born and raised in South Upi, Maguindanao del Sur, within the Lambangian tribe of the Teduray. She was brought up in a family with a strong educational background as her father served as the first municipal secretary for the Teduray, and her mother was a schoolteacher. Her parents emphasised the importance of education and community service. This setting challenged traditional expectations that often restrict formal education for Teduray girls.
With her parents’ encouragement, she overcame cultural barriers and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture from the University of Southern Mindanao. She later obtained a second degree as a registered midwife from Northern Cotabato College. Her academic achievements not only highlight her determination but also mark a significant advancement in educational opportunities for indigenous women in her community.
Peace Journey
Ms. Mendoza’s journey exemplifies her resilience, determination, and passionate advocacy for the rights and representation of indigenous peoples, particularly in relation to the Bangsamoro peace process in the Philippines. Her life offers a compelling depiction of the connection between Indigenous rights, women’s empowerment, and peacebuilding in a region marked by a complex history of conflict.
Her career and advocacy are grounded in her commitment to represent the Teduray ethnic group within the broader Bangsamoro peace dialogue. As chair of the Teduray-Lambangian Women’s Organisation and a member of the all-female contingent of the Civilian Protection component of the International Monitoring Team, she dedicates herself to promoting the rights of lumad (indigenous) women. Her initiatives reflect her determination to leverage her leadership roles to enhance the rights and welfare of Indigenous women and communities.
Success Stories
One of the highlights of her journey is when President Benigno Aquino III appointed Ms. Mendoza to the Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) in 2013. Her contributions to the peace process and the passage of legislation aimed at achieving a more inclusive and autonomous Bangsamoro region are significant. Mendoza advocated for Indigenous Peoples' Rights and represented the Non-Moro Indigenous Peoples in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Parliament. She endeavours to make their voices heard in the evolving political landscape of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region.
Her life story illustrates how education, advocacy, and representation can transform communities. Her journey from a village in Maguindanao del Sur to the various organisations and agencies she has joined has enabled her to play influential roles in the Bangsamoro peace process and in ensuring that the voices of Indigenous people and women are heard in shaping relevant policies. Her work inspires recognition and support for indigenous peoples and women in peacebuilding and governance.