In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS) of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) honored partner individuals and organizations for their assistance in promoting the advocacies of the hearing-impaired community.
Giselle Montero, director of SDEAS Center for Partnership and Development, said the recognition was for program development allies who helped develop SDEAS curriculum; community partners including schools, organizations and local government units, for providing students immersion venues and opportunities to give back; employers for assisting graduates in their respective jobs; and media partners including TV stations, theater and film venues.
“If DLS-CSB is working in making the school inclusive, SDEAS is working with external organizations to make society inclusive.” Montero said.
Among the companies and individuals that provided employment opportunities to the school’s graduates include the Commission on Elections (COMELEC), Makati Shangri-La Manila, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Ristorante delle Mitre, Sevilla Candle Factory, Resources for the Blind, Inc., San Isidro Labrador Parish, and Rotary Club University District of Manila.
Media, theater, and film associates ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC), GMA Network Inc., TV5, Red Turnip Theater, and filmmaker Myrna ‘Mirana’ Miranda were likewise cited for providing sign language interpretation in major political and cultural events, including the annual Presidential State of the Nation Address and televised election debates, and milestone occasions, such as the visit of Pope Francis.
The Philippine National Association of Sign Language Interpreters (PNASLI) and the Philippine Federation for the Deaf have been liaising with Benilde for sign language interpretation assistance for special coverage. The initiative to interpret for the deaf community is Benilde’s vision of inclusion.
On the other hand, Nippon Foundation, PEN-International Dr. James De Caro, the Embassy of the United States in the Philippines, and former SDEAS Dean Christine B. dela Torre, among many others, were recognized for their continued support of SDEAS students and programs.
All the awardees received Plaques of Appreciation in the form of a flame that symbolizes the passion for service and resource sharing for the development of the deaf community in the country.
For those who may wish to partner with the School for Deaf Education and Applied Studies, email to deaf.partnerships@benilde.edu.ph.