Tarlac State University formally established a linkage with the Kakamay Movement Organization to promote Filipino Sign Language (FSL) education.
The memorandum of agreement with the Kakamay Movement Organization, a non-government group advocating inclusivity and accessibility through Filipino Sign Language training and workshops, was signed on Tuesday afternoon (December 2) at the TSU Main AVR.
Under the MOU, the organization will provide free FSL training sessions, workshops, and awareness programs for volunteer TSU faculty, staff, and students.
“This partnership reflects our shared vision for inclusivity, innovation, and social responsibility — a synergy that will open doors for students and stakeholders to learn, lead, and make a difference,” Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jasper Jay N. Mendoza said.
He noted that the collaboration supports TSU’s initiative to develop micro-credentialing and capacity-building programs for FSL-inclusive education and deaf support.
It also prepares the university for future mechanisms to support deaf students, including the potential offering of deaf education programs.
Kakamay Movement Organization Founder General Gabinera Palma anchored his message on transformation, sustainability, and unity, emphasizing the partnership’s goals.
“Through this partnership, we can work on connecting the seven spheres of society with the programs we can develop within the academe — transforming classrooms into deaf-inclusive spaces, ensuring the sustainability of programs from education to employment, and uniting institutions in support of deaf students,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vice President for Administration Atty. Gherold C. Benitez thanked the organization for choosing TSU as its partner in providing free services.
“Kakamay is a way for one who is incapable of shouting — na sa halip na boses, kamay ang ating isisigaw. It gives a sense of equality, giving voice to the voiceless,” he added.
Present during the ceremonial signing are SAS Assistant Director Dr. Dexter L. Manzano and IDIMSS Unit Head Mr. Allan S. Santos.
After the signing, TSU officials and members of the Kakamay Movement Organization held a roundtable discussion to explore further activities and collaborative programs under the new partnership.
