By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo City government, through the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and the Public Information Office (PIO), has introduced communication boards to help emergency responders interact with deaf-mute individuals during crises.
The communication boards, available in four sets, feature text and images illustrating various patient needs, such as requesting help, experiencing pain, feeling sick, bleeding, taking medication, eating, drinking, or sleeping.
These boards will be integrated into the kits and equipment of emergency responders.
CDRRMO Chief Donna Magno said the initiative reflects the city’s commitment to inclusive governance.
She noted that marginalized sectors, such as the deaf-mute community, often struggle to communicate in emergencies, making it difficult for responders to provide immediate aid.
CDRRMO’s Partnership and Building Division Officer, Analyn Porras, led the development of the materials, drawing inspiration from a similar practice she observed in Yokohama, Japan, during a 2015 learning visit under the Community-Based Adaptation and Resilience Against Disasters (CBARAD) Project.
The materials were developed in consultation with the local deaf-mute community to ensure effectiveness.
They will be distributed to the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, district health centers, and ambulances.
Before deployment, CDRRMO will conduct an orientation and refresher course on sign language and the use of the materials.
