UP Mindanao Mourns the Loss of Beloved Football Mentor Coach Protee
The University of the Philippines Mindanao (UPMin) and the broader Philippine sports community are in mourning following the passing of assistant professor Erwin E. Protacio, affectionately known as "Coach Protee" or "Coach Proty." He died on Monday, February 16, 2026, at the age of 65, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship, leadership, and advocacy for football in Mindanao.
A Pillar of Philippine Sports and Education
Protacio was remembered as a devoted husband, a pillar of Philippine sports, and a mentor to generations of athletes. He dedicated decades to nurturing talent, promoting football across Mindanao, and tirelessly advocating for the development of the UP Mindanao Sports Complex. His multifaceted roles included serving as president of the Davao South Regional Football Association, a board member of the Philippine Football Federation, a professor in Human Kinetics at UP Mindanao, a coach, match commissioner, and a sports advocate. Additionally, he held administrative positions as Director of the Office of Extension and Community Service and Department Chair at UP Mindanao.
Tributes from the University and Football Federation
In a statement, UP Mindanao expressed profound sorrow and deep gratitude, honoring Protacio's life and service. The university highlighted his quiet strength and humility in guiding students and athletes, as well as his significant contributions to realizing the DC-UP Sports Complex. His legacy of principled leadership, dedication to excellence, and faithful public service continues to inspire the UP Mindanao community.
The Philippine Football Federation also paid tribute, noting that football in the Mindanao region has been greatly enhanced by Protacio's efforts. They extended condolences to his family and colleagues, acknowledging his former roles as Davao South Regional Football Association President and PFF Board of Governors member.
Personal Memories and Impact
Beyond his professional titles, those who knew Protacio personally cherished him for his gentleness, integrity, and mentorship. He was described as a traveler, a dog lover, and a loving husband to Joan Protacio for 22 years. His niece, Lorraine Protacio, recalled him as kind, gentle, and admirable, noting he never showed anger and lived a healthy, mindful life filled with travel and a passion for dogs.
Former UP Min Ladies' soccer varsity player Ria Faith N. Bisahan shared that Protacio was more than a mentor; he became a second father to many. He taught life skills such as discipline, perseverance, and leadership that extended beyond soccer, guiding players both on and off the field and celebrating all outcomes with equal grace.
Ramonito "Lalas" Carreon, a mentee and professional coach, expressed the pain of losing someone he considered a father figure. Carreon, who now coaches at Philippine College of Technology and Holy Child College of Davao, credited Protacio with guiding him through life and providing opportunities that shaped his career, emphasizing that his contribution to Davao football is immeasurable.
Legacy of Commitment and Inspiration
Philippine Sports Commission acting executive director Atty. Guillermo Iroy remembered Protacio's pioneering role in developing football in Davao and advocating for the UP Mindanao Sports Complex, stating he is gone but not forgotten. Protacio leaves behind a legacy of commitment, mentorship, and care that reached far beyond the football field. His players, colleagues, and the sports community at large remember him as a teacher, a father figure, and a man of unwavering integrity, whose lessons continue to shape lives today.
