SC ratifies Filipino Sign Language to boost deaf access to justice

The Supreme Court (SC) approved the rules on Filipino Sign Language (FSL) interpreting in the judiciary on Nov. 8, a first step toward the full inclusion of deaf Filipinos in the justice system, with the implementation starting in the first quarter of 2026.

“The FSL shall be recognized, promoted, and supported as the medium of official communication in all transactions involving deaf people, and as the language of instruction of deaf education, without prejudice to the use of other forms of communication depending on individual choice or preference,” as stated in Section 4, R.A. 11106.

Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo emphasized in his keynote address the significance of clear and effective communication in the fair administration of justice. 

“Without proper language access, the deaf community faces barriers that may lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or even wrongful convictions,” he said. 

During its session held last October 28, the high tribunal approved A.M. 21-12-04-SC or the “Rules on Filipino Sign Language Interpreting in the Judiciary,” which carries out Republic Act 11106 or the Filipino Sign Language Act.

Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen is hopeful that the FSL Rules will make the administration of justice more meaningful by reducing barriers for d/Deaf litigants, who are often discouraged from filing cases due to the lack of available interpreters in courts

“Real representation is not possible if litigants are not able to communicate their needs to the court or their counsel, particularly in the language they are familiar with or identify to,” he added.  

SC spokesperson Camille Ting highlighted the qualified and accredited FSL interpreters in all judicial proceedings involving deaf parties or witnesses, “securing full and equitable access to justice.”

“The FSL rules also establish ethical and professional standards to guide court interpreters in the performance of their duties, with clear procedures for interpreter accreditation and payment,” she said.

Moreover, the rules allow for both on-site and remote interpreting, with built-in safeguards to maintain the accuracy, confidentiality, and reliability of interpretations across all modes, it also said.

This will be implemented 15 days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation and form part of its Access to Justice Program under the Strategic Plan for Judicial Innovations 2022–2027 (SPIJ).

The adoption of the rules and the conduct of the write shops were supported by the Australian government through the FAIR Justice Program which aims to improve access to justice for vulnerable groups nationwide.