The Commission on the Filipino Language (CFL) in the Philippines is facing criticism from progressive Partlist Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) for its decision to abolish the Filipino Sign Language (FSL) unit. The group argues the move violates the rights of deaf Filipinos and hinders the implementation of a national sign language act.

“We condemn the actions of Chairman Arthur P. Casanova and the newly appointed CFL commissioners’ unjust removal of all Deaf personnel from the FSL Unit,” ACT said in a statement on June 1. 

“This action is not only inhumane but also undermines the rights and dignity of the Deaf community.”

The move comes despite the existence of Republic Act (RA) 11106, which recognizes Filipino Sign Language as the national sign language and mandates its use in government, schools, and workplaces, ACT said.

The law aims to promote and protect the rights of deaf Filipinos and ensure their equal participation in society. ACT argues that abolishing the FSL unit will cripple efforts to implement RA 11106. 

“By removing the FSL unit, it will cease to function, and the implementation of the RA 11106 will not be realized,” the statement said.

The Philippine Federation of the Deaf (PFD) also voiced its opposition to the CFL’s decision, holding a protest rally in Manila on May 31. 

PFD members expressed concern that the move would deprive deaf Filipinos of their language rights and violate the mandate of RA 7104, which established the Commission on the Filipino Language.

The CFL has not yet publicly commented on the allegations or explained the reasons behind its decision to abolish the FSL unit. 

ACT is calling on the CFL to reinstate the unit and ensure that services are available for the Filipino deaf community.