Klenton Albay Sibelina, a proud alumnus of the College of Teacher Education (CTE), led this year’s search for the Outstanding Filipino Educators in the UAE 2025, emerging as the top honoree in the prestigious recognition program organized by the Filipino International Teachers Society (FITS) with the support of the Philippine Embassy in the United Arab Emirates and the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai.

Currently serving as Senior Leader for Teaching and Learning under the Taaleem Ajyal Project of the UAE Ministry of Education, Sibelina is the first Filipino to hold this senior leadership position, a groundbreaking achievement that highlights the global excellence of Filipino educators.

He leads curriculum development, designs teacher training programs, and oversees instructional practices across Ajyal schools, helping shape progressive and inclusive education in the UAE.

“Thank you [FITS] for this incredible recognition and for honoring Filipino educators who continue to make a difference beyond borders,” Sibelina said in a Facebook post acknowledging the award-giving body for honoring their efforts as educators.

Rigorous Selection Process and Criteria

The Outstanding Filipino Educators in the UAE 2025 search ran from August 26 to September 27, 2025, following a comprehensive multi-phase selection process.

The Final Interview Panel was composed of respected educators, school leaders, and Filipino community representatives in the UAE. Each panelist reviewed the nominees’ written responses and achievement portfolios prior to the interview to ensure fair and informed evaluation.

Nominees were assessed across four major criteria such as Impact on Filipino Learners and the School Community, Innovation in Culturally Responsive Teaching, Promotion of Filipino Values and Excellence Abroad, and Commitment to Professional Growth and Service.

Judges evaluated nominees based on the clarity and depth of their responses, evidence of actual impact, connection to the Filipino community, and authenticity and relevance of their achievements. The top scorers were selected after a thorough deliberation process, ensuring integrity, fairness, and equal opportunity for all participants.

A Milestone of Excellence

At just 31 years old, Sibelina has become a beacon of Filipino leadership in international education. His contributions to curriculum innovation, teacher development, and inclusive instruction under the Ministry of Education’s Taaleem Ajyal Project have been instrumental in advancing learner-centered education in the UAE.

A 2015 graduate of the Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Filipino and   Master of Arts in Teaching in 2023,  Sibelina attributes his success to the foundation laid by his alma mater.

The Awarding Ceremony for the Outstanding Filipino Educators in the UAE 2025 was held last October 11, 2025, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Sibelina’s recognition not only celebrates his individual achievement but also affirms the mission of the FCU College of Teacher Education to produce world-class, purpose-driven educators who embody excellence, leadership, and service, wherever they may be in the world.