JOHN Khevin Largo Badayos, 31, recently achieved a remarkable feat: placing seventh in the Special Professional Licensure Examination (SPLE) for Professional Teachers-Secondary last June 8, 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Badayos’ journey, however, wasn't a straight path to success. It's a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and unwavering faith, a journey that began far from the classroom.
But fate had a different plan.
In 2017, as the Philippine education system transitioned to the K-12 curriculum, his alma mater tapped him to fill a vacancy as a part-time Senior High School Science teacher. Without formal training in pedagogy, Badayos stepped into the classroom for the first time completely unprepared, but full of heart.
His initial foray into teaching was surprisingly fulfilling. The supportive environment at CIT-University, under the guidance of former principal Dr. Arsenio Pacana, and his successor, Dr. Raniza Romero, along with the assistance of Engr. Alona Solis, fostered his growth and cemented his passion for education.
The positive responses from his students, particularly in subjects like Earth Science, Disaster Readiness and Risk Reduction, and Biology, confirmed that he had found his true calling.
Badayos pursued his professional teaching units at Cebu Technological University-Main, completing them in 2018. Yet, despite his growing experience and eligibility, he repeatedly missed LET application deadlines. Then the Covid-19 pandemic hit, halting his plans once more.
In 2022, Badayos moved to Dubai, where he began teaching at The Philippine School-Dubai. There, he earned recognition as Most Outstanding Science Teacher (Elementary Level) for SY 2022–2023. By 2024, he transitioned to the Nord Anglia International School-Dubai, one of the top 100 international schools in the world, as an Inclusion Learning Support Assistant, serving under the British-IB curriculum.
Amid professional achievements, the dream of becoming a licensed teacher lingered. With his credentials finally in place, Badayos quietly began reviewing for the SPLE without telling even his family or closest friends.
Challenges and triumphs of SPLE preparation
The road to the SPLE was demanding. Balancing a demanding teaching job with intensive exam preparation proved challenging, especially considering the high standards of the Dubai education system. He relied heavily on the CBRC review platform, spending hours studying, a process that often led to exhaustion and anxiety attacks as the exam approached.
He managed this intense pressure through prayer, a source of strength and peace, especially since he kept his exam preparation a secret. He found balance through social connections, travel, and simple pleasures, like his favorite shawarma and chai in Dubai. These small moments of respite were crucial to his mental and emotional well-being.
Financial constraints were also a significant hurdle. The high cost of living in Dubai meant careful budgeting and prioritizing expenses. However, his financial discipline, combined with faith, allowed him to overcome these challenges.
Inspiration and advice for aspiring teachers
Badayos' story is one of perseverance and faith. He faced self-doubt and moments where he considered giving up, but the desire to make a difference, to inspire his students, and to honor the trust of those who believed in him kept him going.
His advice to aspiring teachers is simple yet profound: prepare not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually. Manage time effectively, prioritize self-care, and remember the purpose behind your pursuit. His success is a testament to the power of prayer, resilience, and a positive mindset.
The result? Ranking seventh nationwide, an achievement that even surprised him.
Badayos' future aspirations are equally ambitious. He aims to be more than just an educator; he wants to be a mentor and advocate, inspiring students to become responsible global citizens and environmentally conscious individuals. He hopes to guide other aspiring teachers, especially overseas Filipino workers, and contribute to educational reforms in the Philippines. His impact on his students extends beyond the classroom, shaping them into responsible and compassionate individuals. (Jeanette Arinque, HNU intern and Trixcy Shien Cobarde, Benedicto College intern)