The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) joins the global observance of the International Day of Sign Languages today, 23 September 2025, and the International Week of the Deaf.

Recognizing and promoting the use of sign languages not only affirms the identity and culture of deaf and hard of hearing communities, but also ensures their access to justice, education, health, and work, among others. Access to public services and participation in decision-making cannot be fully realized without dismantling barriers in communication.

In line with our mandate, the CHR advocates for the use of Filipino Sign Language (FSL) and to have sign language interpreters (SLI) in schools, government offices, health service providers, courts, and in public broadcasting.

We also take this opportunity to encourage the public to learn sign language. Republic Act No. 11106, or the FSL Act, encourages all to conduct inclusive programs that encourage effective communication between deaf and hearing persons. We recognize the current efforts of relevant government agencies in institutionalizing FSL in all facets of society as part of advancing accessibility and inclusion in the country.

Likewise, as duty-bearers, the government holds the responsibility to ensure that the promotion of the linguistic identity of the deaf community remains parallel to the vision of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which calls for global disability inclusion.

As we commemorate these observances, the Commission calls on the government, private institutions, and all stakeholders to strengthen commitments towards the meaningful inclusion of the deaf community. The promise of human rights can only be realized when this mantra for the deaf community is lived: nothing about us, without us.

In solidarity with the deaf and hard of hearing community, the Commission reaffirms the call for the full realization of human rights and fundamental freedoms for all persons with disabilities without discrimination.