Guests and participants of the ‘Filipino Sign Language Para sa Pagbabago ng Klima, Talakayan Para sa Inklusibong Kinabukasan’ forum do the sign language gesture for applauseClimate change has farreaching and global impacts, but not everyone is affected equally. Certain vulnerable populations, such as persons with disabilities, face unique and disproportionate challenges during environmental crises. Traditional climate action and disaster readiness plans are usually created with a lack of consideration to the needs of these communities which leads to increased risk and isolation.

Underscoring the need for inclusive governance and climate action strategies that encompass all segments of society, including the Deaf and hard of hearing, Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Center hosted “Filipino Sign Language Para sa Pagbabago ng Klima, Talakayan Para sa Inklusibong Kinabukasan” at the Rockwell Business Center in celebration of Earth Day on April 22, 2024.

The forum aimed to provide an in-depth look at the advancements under the center’s “Climate Resilience of the Deaf: Signs for Inclusive Governance and Development” or Project SIGND. The initiative seeks to increase the preparedness and adaptive capacities of the Deaf to climaterelated risks and disasters.

Another key feature of the forum was the official launch of the partnership between OML Center and the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF). This collaboration presented a crucial step forward in integrating language and culture into local climate actions.

Forum highlights included Deaf-sensitivity orientation, ensuring participants can communicate respectfully and effectively with the Deaf community.

To ensure full accessibility, Filipino Sign Language or FSL interpreters were available throughout the event, enabling an inclusive experience for the attendees.

The forum was attended by guests and speakers who are leaders in climate advocacy and disability rights, including Dr. Rodel Lasco, executive director of OML Center; Dr. Benjamin Mendillo Jr., commissioner of the KWF; Carolyn Dagani, lead of Project SIGND; Rebecca Paz, chief of party, INSPIRE Project of the Gerry Roxas Foundation; Ryder Rogers, director of the Environment Office, USAID Philippines; and Project SIGND focals Jennifer Balan, Diana Vizmanos and Atty. Cecilia Therese Guiao. Their insights highlighted the critical need for inclusive policies and the role of innovative partnerships in driving effective climate action.