LIFESTYLE | December 28, 2025
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| Aiyanna Joy Mata Domingo (Image Source: Starmometer/British Council Philippines) |
The British Council has officially announced the winners of the IELTS Prize 2025 in the Philippines. Through the IELTS Prize, the British Council spotlights the unique journeys of those taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), a globally recognized English language proficiency test for higher education and global migration, from preparing for the test to finally achieving their goals of pursuing higher education, advancing careers abroad, or accessing global work opportunities. Through this initiative, the British Council stands as a trusted partner, fostering a community of individuals driven to overcome challenges to pursue their dreams.
Students will receive GBP 1,000 towards tuition fees at an English-speaking university while professionals will receive the prize in cash. This year, the competition was open to IELTS test takers residing in the Philippines who took the test with the British Council between April 1, 2024 and September 25, 2025. Applicants shared their IELTS success stories through short videos and essays, highlighting how IELTS helped them overcome challenges and prepare for global opportunities. Following a competitive selection process, five winners have been chosen. The winners of the IELTS Prize 2025 in the Philippines are Aiyanna Joy Mata Domingo, Lisheen Mique, Jocel Anna Matunding, Juriz Andrea Malinao, and Jeramie Joyce Domingo. Aiyanna Joy shared how IELTS has helped her with her goals, stating, “There were times when I doubted my abilities because of personal pressures and self questioning, yet I always returned to my original goal: to prove that fear is not a hindrance to progress but a catalyst for shaping personal development. The British Council played a major role in transforming this mindset.” Aiyanna who is currently taking up Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence Pathway) at Cardiff Metropolitan University in Wales, delivered at Gulf College in the Muscat Sultanate of Oman (Affiliated Institution). Scoring 7.5 (C1) in IELTS Academic, Aiyanna was exempted from taking the English modules for two semesters.
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| Lisheen Mique (Image Source: Starmometer/British Council Philippines) |
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| Jocel Anna Matunding (Image Source: Starmometer/British Council Philippines) |
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| Juriz Andrea Malinao (Image Source: Starmometer/British Council Philippines) |
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| Jeramie Joyce Domingo (Image Source: Starmometer/British Council Philippines) |
“Through IELTS Ready Premium, live classes, and the consistent support of their tutors, what once felt overwhelming became manageable. Their guidance helped turn nervousness into confidence, and studying became more structured, encouraging, and empowering. IELTS was no longer just an exam — it became a journey that strengthened my discipline, focus, and determination. It taught me that with belief, hardwork, and the right support, challenges can truly become opportunities for growth,” said Aiyanna. British Council Philippines Country Director Lotus Postrado commented, “Congratulations to this year’s IELTS Prize winners and our warmest thanks to all who participated for sharing with us your inspiring journeys. The British Council is proud to have supported you in shaping your futures. We hope to inspire more people with your stories of success. The IELTS Prize is more than just financial support. This is our way of celebrating the untold stories of people who take the IELTS test with us. Because of these stories, we are driven more than ever to do better in the services we provide.”
