MAKATI CITY — On September 23, 2026, Makati joined communities around the world in observing the International Day of Sign Languages, a United Nations-designated occasion established in 2017 to uphold the human rights of Deaf people. The observance carries special weight this year with the theme "Declaring Deaf People's Human Rights," which calls on governments and communities to turn commitments into real access—in schools, workplaces, health services, and public spaces. For Makati, the day is not just a global milestone but a reflection of its ongoing work to build a city where every resident, regardless of ability, can participate fully and be understood.
Turning Inclusion Into Everyday Reality
Makati's commitment to the Deaf community is anchored in concrete programs rather than symbolic gestures. The city provides hearing aids and other assistive devices to indigent persons with disabilities through its Mobility Devices Program, while its Cash-for-Work initiative opens temporary employment opportunities for PWDs. Regular accessibility audits of public and private establishments ensure compliance with universal design standards, making spaces more welcoming for everyone. These efforts align with Republic Act No. 11106, or the Filipino Sign Language Act, which declares FSL as the national sign language and mandates its use in government transactions, schools, broadcast media, and workplaces.
Why This Celebration Matters to the Community
The International Day of Sign Languages serves a purpose that goes beyond awareness—it affirms that sign languages are complete, natural languages equal in status to spoken ones, and that early access to them is essential for education, identity, and opportunity. There are approximately 72 million deaf people worldwide using more than 300 distinct sign languages, and many still face barriers to communication and services that others take for granted. By marking this day, Makati signals to its Deaf residents that their language and culture are recognized and valued. It also reminds the broader community that inclusivity is a shared responsibility—one that begins with listening, understanding, and making space for every voice. generate an image for this landscape orientation. make sure to not put too much words. no text below