Philippine Courts Approve Rules for Deaf Interpreters

Photo courtesy of PhilStar

Beginning December 15, Filipino courts will allow deaf individuals to request accredited sign language interpreters during court proceedings, as announced by the Supreme Court (SC). This move follows the approval of new rules on Filipino Sign Language (FSL) interpreting in the judiciary, aimed at ensuring access to justice for the deaf community. An annual list of accredited interpreters will be provided to all courts, with interpreters receiving certificates of accreditation valid for three years.

Accredited FSL interpreters are required to complete at least 24 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their status. Courts can dismiss interpreters for reasons such as incapacity, fraud, dishonesty, breach of confidentiality, failure to appear without valid cause, or willful violation of rules and policies. The SC emphasized that interpreters must respect the deaf individual's identity, language, culture, status, and personal characteristics.

Deaf people also have the option to hire their own accredited interpreters, provided they have consent from the other party involved in the case. The SC has also allowed for remote interpreting under certain conditions. This includes situations where no on-site interpreter is available, when proceedings are brief and do not involve testimony, or if a case involves sensitive matters that might endanger the interpreter’s safety.

However, in-court interpreting remains obligatory for complex proceedings, cases involving children or multiple parties, and in facilities where remote interpreting is obstructed by poor lighting, noise, or if video conferencing is not practical. This initiative aims to enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of the judicial system in the Philippines for individuals with hearing impairments, reported PhilStar.

Key Takeaways

• From December 15, deaf individuals in Philippine courts can request accredited interpreters.
• Interpreters must engage in continuing education to maintain accreditation.
• Remote interpreting is allowed under specific conditions, with certain cases requiring in-court interpreting.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-12-04