Deaf Filipinos can request interpreters in court proceedings starting December 15, according to the Supreme Court. The court has approved rules for Filipino sign language interpreting in the judiciary. This measure aims to ensure equal access to justice for those with hearing impairments.
The Supreme Court has approved rules for the use of Filipino sign language (FSL) interpreters in courts, effective from December 15. An annual list of accredited interpreters will be provided to all courts, with certificates valid for three years issued by the Office of the Court Administrator.
Interpreters must complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain accreditation. Courts may remove interpreters for incapacity, fraud or dishonesty, breach of confidentiality, failure to appear without good cause, or willful violation of rules.
“Interpreters must… respect the deaf person’s identity, language, culture, status and personal characteristics and beliefs,” the Supreme Court stated.
Deaf individuals may hire their own accredited interpreters with the consent of the other party. Remote interpreting is allowed when no on-site interpreter is available, for brief proceedings not involving testimony, or in sensitive cases posing safety risks to the interpreter.
In-court interpreting remains mandatory for complex proceedings, cases involving children or multiple parties, as well as in facilities impaired by noise or poor lighting where video conferencing is not feasible.