Climate change has far-reaching and global impacts, but not everyone is affected equally. Certain vulnerable populations, such as persons with disabilities, often face unique and disproportionate challenges during environmental crises. Traditional climate action and disaster readiness plans are usually created with the lack of consideration to the needs of these communities which leads to increased risk and isolation.

Underscoring the urgent need for inclusive governance and climate action strategies that encompass all segments of society, including the Deaf and hard of hearing, the Oscar M. Lopez (OML) Center hosted “Filipino Sign Language para sa Pagbabago ng Klima, Talakayan para sa Inklusibong Kinabukasan” on Monday, April 22, 2024, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Rockwell Business Center Tower 3, Ortigas Ave., Pasig City, in celebration of Earth Day.

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. This initiative seeks to increase the preparedness and adaptive capacities of the Deaf to climate-related risks and disasters.

Another key feature of the forum was the official launch of the partnership between the 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 all participants can communicate respectfully and effectively with the Deaf community.

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

The forum was attended by a distinguished panel of guests and speakers who are leaders in climate advocacy and disability rights, including Dr. Rodel D. Lasco, Executive Director of the OML Center; Dr. Benjamin M. Mendillo Jr., Commissioner of the KWF; Ms. Carolyn Dagani, Lead of Project SIGND; Ms. Rebecca Paz, Chief of Party, INSPIRE Project of the Gerry Roxas Foundation; Mr. Ryder Rogers, Director of the Environment Office, USAID Philippines, and Project SIGND focals, Ms. Jennifer Balan, Ms. 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.

About Project SIGND

The Climate Resilience of the Deaf: Signs for Inclusive Governance and Development” or Project SIGND is an initiative that seeks to increase the preparedness and adaptive capacities of the Deaf to climate-related risks and disasters. The project is made possible by a grant from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), through the Gerry Roxas Foundation (GRF), and is led by the Oscar M. Lopez Center in partnership with Deaf-led organizations. 

Learn more about Project SIGND through the OML Center’s website: https://www.omlopezcenter.org/our-work/project-signd.