PASIG CITY, (PIA) — The Pasig City government held its first Deaf Sensitivity and Basic Filipino Sign Language (FSL) training for its frontline employees to provide a more inclusive public service, especially for the deaf community.
Around 70 employees from various offices and departments joined the training, led by City Human Resource Development Officer Elvira R. Flores at the Temporary Pasig City Hall. The training focused on three key aspects: diversity, equality, and inclusivity.
Flores emphasized the importance of the training, hoping that participants would gain a better understanding of these values and be able to communicate more effectively with employees and clients, particularly those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Members of the Manila Christian Computer Institute for the Deaf (MCCID) served as speakers, including sign language interpreter Remberto “Jojo” Esposa Jr. and deaf trainers Donne Ambrosio Roberto Dela Cruz, Catherine Jardiolin, and Rod Kevin Yparraguirre.
Esposa explained the significance of learning sign language, especially FSL, to better understand and support the deaf community.
He shared effective ways to get their attention, such as maintaining eye contact, gently tapping their shoulder, or switching lights on and off.
The deaf trainers taught the participants FSL fingerspelling for the Filipino alphabet and numbers, as well as basic greetings and common signs used in everyday communication. They also guided the employees in learning the sign language interpretation of the patriotic song “Pilipinas Kong Mahal.”
The training is part of the city government’s efforts to promote inclusivity and provide better services to the deaf community.
By equipping its employees with the necessary skills and knowledge, the Pasig City government aims to create a more welcoming and accessible environment for all citizens. (JLN/PIA-NCR)
