SC approves Filipino sign language interpreting rules in the judiciary

The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday announced that it has approved the Rules on Filipino Sign Language Interpreting in the Judiciary (FSL Rules), which seeks to ensure equal and effective access to justice for d/Deaf Filipinos.

According to the SC, courts must appoint accredited FSL interpreters and Deaf Relay Interpreters (DRIs). 

It said FLS interpreters translate spoken language into FSL while DRIs are Deaf persons who relay communication between a deaf person with little to no exposure to sign language and hearing non-signers.

The SC said that the Office of the Court Administrator (OCA) must provide an updated list of accredited interpreters.

“To ensure impartiality, the Rules prohibit courts from appointing interpreters who have conflicts of interest, such as relationship, financial, or professional ties to the d/Deaf party or witness,” it said.

If a d/Deaf person declines the court-provided interpreter, they may hire accredited interpreters at their own expense with the other party’s consent.

Accreditation

According to the SC, the OCA grants accreditation for FSL court interpreters. 

It said that the certificate of accreditation is valid for three years from the date of approval of the application unless revoked.

To maintain their accreditation, the SC said interpreters must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every three years and submit official documentation of attendance to the OCA for renewal.

Meanwhile, the SC said that courts may remove interpreters for incapacity, fraud or dishonesty in performing duties, breach of confidentiality, failure to appear without good cause, or willful violation of prescribed rules and policies

“Interpreters must act professionally and responsibly, provide accurate interpretation, remain impartial, maintain confidentiality, and respect the d/Deaf person’s identity, language, culture, status, and personal characteristics, and beliefs,” the SC said.

Under the rules, deaf are defined as Filipinos with hearing loss who may or may not use sign language or identify with the Deaf community.

Meanwhile, Deaf are for those who use FSL and collectively identify as a community.

“This is to emphasize that all Filipino Deaf are deaf, but not all deaf Filipinos are Deaf,” the SC said.

The SC said the rules apply to all court proceedings involving d/Deaf Filipinos in the judiciary with the right to choose their preferred mode of communication. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News