ILOILO CITY—To ensure inclusive disaster response, the Iloilo City Government has introduced communication boards to assist deaf-mute individuals during emergencies.
Developed by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and Public Information Office (PIO), the communication boards contain text and illustrated symbols depicting different emergency situations, such as requesting help, experiencing pain, feeling sick, bleeding, taking medication, eating, drinking, or sleeping.
CDRRMO Chief Donna Magno emphasized that the initiative aims to bridge the communication gap for deaf and mute individuals, allowing first responders to provide timely and appropriate assistance.
“This effort highlights the city government’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in times of emergency,” Magno said.
The communication boards will be included in the emergency kits and equipment of responders and distributed to the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), district health centers, and ambulances.
The concept was first observed by Building Division Officer Analyn Porras in Yokohama, Japan, during her visit in 2015 under the Community-Based Adaptation and Resilience Against Disasters (CBARAD) Project.
Before implementation, the materials were reviewed and refined in consultation with the local deaf-mute community to ensure their effectiveness.
In preparation for its rollout, CDRRMO will conduct orientation sessions for emergency responders, including a refresher on basic sign language and proper use of the communication boards.