Apart from the basic necessities, one needs to be equipped with habits for good communication skills, as this is what will make them a happy and successful social being. It is the ability to use language (receptive) and express (expressive) information. And the importance of communication skills is not just limited to the hearing world, since effective communication skills are now required in each and every aspect of our life.
Sign language isn’t used only by the deaf anymore. It’s used for nonverbal children and adults as well as in infants and toddlers to add to their communication skills. Those skills help many people who couldn’t otherwise communicate, talk to the world. Being a sign language interpreter is an interesting and challenging job. Yet, as an interpreter, you will be interpreting spoken words and turning them into sign language for someone who is hearing impaired. You will also be translating sign language into spoken words so the hearing impaired can converse with someone who doesn’t know sign language.
True to his words and actions of being a professional sign language interpreter and a model to all, PAIDE’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alfredo D. Celada, Jr. possesses and has shown examples of what a good and dedicated sign language interpreter is like. He has never stopped improving and sharing his skills in interpreting as well as his involvement and commitment with the deaf community. Whenever, opportunities to learn new things come, he would take it not only for himself or for PAIDE but also for other interpreters.
A year ago, on May 9 to 10, 2008; Sir Jun attended series of Seminar Workshops during the Spring Sign Language and Interpreting Celebration at Long Beach California, USA. The two days seminar- workshops were presented simultaneously and dealt on the different aspects of sign language interpreting. Over 200 participants attended the seminars among them Sign language interpreters and student-interpreters from USA, some participants from Samoa and only him from the Philippines.
The following are among the seminar-workshops he attended:
- INTERPRETING: NOT JUST A JOB, IT’S AN ADVENTURE.It was facilitated by Mr. Antonio Goodwin, a hearing – Deaf advocate from the U.S. This was a three hour workshop designed to address particular elements of working as a traveling interpreters with focused on working vacations. It also discussed how one can become and what it looks like to be a travelling interpreter but most importantly how one can do it successfully. To make the seminar more realistic and fun, role playing were employed.
- ASL CLASSIFIERS.It was presented by Mr. John Yingst a deaf based in the U.S. The two hour workshop focused on one of the most important aspects of American Sign Language grammar… the classifiers. The speaker demonstrated eight different aspects of classifiers. (Classifiers are sets of hand shapes that represent classes of things that share similar characteristics. These are signs used to represent general categories or “classes” of things. They can be used to describe the size and shape of an object or person. They can be used to represent the object itself, or the way the object moves or relates to other objects or people). The participants gained abilities both in expressive and receptive skills. Learning to use this method of interpreting would be a great aid for all interpreters in order to be able to deliver and convey the message well and also to be clearly understood both by the deaf and the hearing individuals.
- ASL NUMBERING SYSTEMS.This part was facilitated and presented by Sylvia Yingst, a deaf based in the U.S., too. This two hour workshop addressed the various numbering systems in American Sign Language and would greatly help participants and interpreters to improve their receptive skills in number concepts.
- FINGERSPELLING AND NUMBERS.It was presented by Mr. Rorlando Ochoa a deaf facilitator from the U.S. This two hour workshop focused on finger spelling and number. Participants learned proper letter formation and usage of finger spelling and numbers. They were also encouraged to develop confidence in their ability to decode complete messages from incomplete information or even the use of what they call lexicalized or loan signs.
- ASL STORY TELLING.It was also facilitated by Mr. Rolando Ochoa (deaf). This two hour seminar-workshop was a lecture on ASL story structure. The more artistic, creative and expressive an interpreter is the more effective he/she becomes to the deaf particularly children or the young.
But, more than good communication skills are good habits, a very important aspect in the role and life of an interpreter. The role of interpreters is not simply to convey information or to translate the message to both the deaf and hearing. Becoming a model and motivator to them and helping them build their confidence, develop their skills and to value themselves are more precious. Moreover, differently- abled persons if given the proper motivation and proper skills will also succeed for any individual, hearing or not, who want to make progress with their life develop important skills, habits, attitude and positive outlook.
Story telling is a good approach and an effective way of helping the children enhance their attention and concentration and cultivate their thinking skills and intellectual potentials. Children with disabilities like deafness or hearing impairment have the right to education and to enjoy life just like any children. They should be given full opportunity to achieve and maintain acceptable levels of learning.
A group of deaf teachers and interpreters from University of the Philippines headed by Ms. May Cabutihan (s-l interpreter) together with Cathy Alonzo and Ricky Arenas conceptualized the idea of giving a Reading workshop to some deaf elementary and high school students. This idea was a part of their requirement in the university taking special education especially teaching the deaf and also to share to the children other aspects of teaching and learning Reading as a subject in school and as a skill.
This activity was made possible on August 31, 2008 with the assistance of the Philippine Association of Interpreters for Deaf Empowerment (PAIDE) through the help of their interpreters namely Sir Mike Potian and Ms. Nemz Abiday. Also present then were Ms. Vivian Hipolito and Jerly-Ann Villanueva. Our group (Elma (me), Lynn, Anthony and Carlito) S-L interpreting trainees from level 5 (Practicum) were also invited to take part. The deaf students of San Isidro Elementary/High School in Antipolo City were the recipients of the activity. They were headed by their teacher/moderator Ms. Marose Aydalia. Some parents were also present to witness and observe the activity.
The group was divided into two, the elementary group and the high school group. The teachers and the interpreters facilitated the two separated activities. Everybody had fun during the event. Deaf teachers, the animators especially gave a tremendous amount of talent and expertise. They were so good in story-telling and animating that really made the children more amazed and excited in taking part.
During the workshop, small children with our assistance (PAIDE interpreters and trainees) enjoyed pasting the cut out story characters and in sequencing the events of the story read to them by their teacher. The high school students were also able to showcase their best in arts through the vase of love they made and prepared as a symbol of how much they treasure someone in their life.
The activity took place for almost 3 hours but it was a great success to all the students, interpreters and facilitators. The deaf children showed everyone present there, their appreciation to the effort and time given to them through their big happy smiles.
By Priscilla S. Roxas
Last year in October 2008, our group, the Catholic Layman’s Association of the Deaf (CLAD) of Our Lady of Peace – Edsa Shrine chapter accepted the invitation of Ms. Agnes Peters, a deaf interpreter and advocate of the RC Deaf Mission in Malaysia to visit her country. We met her during her first two visits at Edsa Shrine (attending the Sunday mass), while here in the country doing some business. She was our host during our three days stay at Malaysia. She introduced us to some of the deaf people there and the people in their organization the RC Deaf Mission. We even attended mass at the Assumption Church with Rev. Fr. Phillips Muthu, their parish priest, as the mass celebrant. He shared with us a lot of things especially the importance of concentration and not being distracted by any outside sound or noise just like what disturbs a hearing person during a religious ceremony or during mass. Luckily for us, we are not distracted by any noise with our incapacity but what he was really telling us was the inside noise that we hear. That we must listen to the sound of our heart, to concentrate and pay more attention with our lives and show and observe fully how we act and live as true Christians. We were helped by our new deaf friends to tour/see the different places and the beautiful sights there including the world’s highest towers, the Petronas towers. Our stay in Malaysia gave us a beautiful experience of seeing other cultures and of meeting and having new friends.
By Ronald Subiaga
Last December 13, 2008, the PAIDE community held its annual Culminating program and Christmas party at Angels Institute of Learning Social Hall, 4th floor. The event was full of fun filled activities and surprises for the audience. The program started with a prayer service, which was facilitated by Ms. Nemz Abiday and interpreted by Priscilla Roxas and Anthony Albay. The audience paid attention to Ms. Rosalynn Garcia as she welcomed everyone in her opening remarks.
The line up of activities begun with a song interpretation by Ms. Mary Hope Sumabong from the Basic 1 class entitled “For You I Will” and by Zenaida Rabina’s “Wheel of the Wind” ( Great performance ladies!). The Basic 1 class also showed harmony as they performed for their group presentation. Everyone started to get more excited when Ms. Joy Timbol’s version of “Remember Me This Way” and Mariza Illinon’s “Hero” paved their way on stage (Way to go!). Not only were they able to perform well, but they also gave an indication of how future interpreters would be with their performance of “Rock Around The Christmas Tree”. It was good to see how each of them showed their best to give meaning to their songs. Of course let me give recognition to their mentors Mr. Mike Potian and Ms. Sonia Lodado for their never ending vigor and spirit.
Towards the latter part of the program, we saw the regular faces of PAIDE’s Performing Artists. It started with the sexy interpretation of “Giling-Giling” by the hot and captivating Ms. Emelie Gentalian (Great job Ate Melai!). After that energetic performance, Mr. Joffrey Ortanez serenaded the audience with a lovely song “Ikaw Ang Buhay Ko”. His voice soothed the ears of everyone present there.
Meanwhile, the mini concert was cut short by our Masters of Ceremony for the awarding of Certificates to the student trainees of SL interpreting (Basic 1 and Basic 2 classes), of which the highlight was the recognition of PAIDE’s Batch 17 S-L interpreters namely Anthony Albay, Carlito Anonuevo, Rosalynn Garcia and Priscilla Roxas (Congratulations!) who were under the supervision and care of Ms. Nemia Abiday.
After the awarding of certificates, Mr. Fernan Baquing’s appealing looks charmed the viewers with his interpretation of the song “The Gift”. It was followed with my own interpretation of the song “Just Another New Year’s Eve”. It was a vey mellow song with beautiful lyrics. The next performers were none other than the handsome and beautiful teachers of Angeli Dei Schools and Angels Institute of Learning namely Joffrey, Fernan, Belle, and Cynthia of Batch 16. They interpreted the song “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”. The energy in the room rose to the next level as Ms. Nemz Abiday interpreted the song “Perfect Christmas”. Before the culminating program ended, the audience waited for the performance of PAIDE’S Sign Language Training Officer, Mr. Michael Potian. He interpreted the song “Christmas Is”. And lastly, what the 17th Batch of interpreters had in store for us? They performed a “Christmas Medley” with a heartfelt and touching Powerpoint presentation. This ended the delightful 1st part of the program.
But wait! I think I missed on something. Isn’t that every Christmas program our CEO performs with the interpreters? Of course, this year is not different from the rest. However, this last culminating program he rendered a song interpretation entitled “The Road of Our Lives” to all. The interpreters and the audience sat and watched in awe as he moved his skilled hands gracefully. To Sir Jun, a simple thank you is not enough for all the encouragement and support you have for us! The interpreters will not forget their moments with you. Ms. Leticia V. Uy, the Chairman of the Board of PAIDE ended the program with a closing remark.
A Christmas Culminating Program will never be complete without a party. All the students and interpreters present were involved in this event. Guests from the Deaf community of Antipolo, EDSA Shrine and College of St. Benilde – La Salle were also invited and present to celebrate with us too. Everybody participated and was challenged with the different games in stored for them. Almost everyone was exhilarated looking at the dynamic faces of everyone as they battle and fight for their team. Certainly, these games and battle would not be complete without the fabulous and “bonggacious” prizes from our generous sponsors! The exciting exchanging of gifts followed after the games. And for the finale, we as one family interpreted the song “Christmas in Our Hearts”.
Everybody felt wonderful with peace and joy in their hearts as they once again proved that “PAIDE IS AN EXTRAORDINARY COMMUNITY FOR EXTRAORDINARY INTERPRETERS!!!” (Are you one of us?)
NOW TELL ME, ISN’T THIS YOUR MOST FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR, TOO?
By Maria Antonette U. Padilla
Last April 8, 2006, 11 individuals with the noblest pair of hands in sign language interpreting have been applauded with the First Golden Hands Awards presented by the Philippine Association of Interpreters for Deaf Empowerment (PAIDE) under the supervision of its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alfredo D. Celada, Jr., at the Bulwagang Gabaldon, Club Filipino in Greenhills, San Juan. Sign language interpreters from all over the archipelago together with some of their supportive friends and relatives have gathered to witness one of the most meaningful awarding ceremonies the country has ever produced.
The First Golden Hands Awards Night has been considered to be an event that brought sign language interpreting to a level worthy of respect. The 11 interpreters consisting of (in no particular order) Teresita D. Almayda, May G. Andrada, Antonia B. Blanca, Ma. Teresa B. Buenaventura, Alfredo D. Celada, Jr., Joy L. Cristal, Dolores Vince C. Dela Cruz, Beatriz O. Go, Sonia B. Lodado, Rebecca M. Santos and Carmen V. Rieza have been recognized for their more than 15 years of unselfish dedication to serve the deaf members of the community. Truly, their passionate service in interpreting at medical, legal, religious and educational fields have brought significant impact in the transformation of the deaf as an individual. It is comforting to know that an organization such as PAIDE have captured one special evening for them. “Thank you” has been quite a favorite expression used by the awardees after witnessing an audiovisual account of their accomplishments and after receiving their trophies. All, but one surprised awardee, Mr. Alfredo D. Celada, Jr. also known as “Sir Jun” added “This is not part of the plan” in his acceptance speech. The awardees each received a pair of golden hands trophy ( designed by Ms. Vivian Hipolito, an interior designer and president of the RIDERS) from Mr. Michael S. Putian and Mr. Alfredo D. Celada, Jr. and gifts from PAIDE.
Over 150 people, mostly dressed in their formal Filipiñana attire, have graced the ceremony hosted by Ms. Lee P. Britanico, yours truly, and Mr. Michael Nilo who shared his time doing the voice over. Special dance numbers in cultural context from a group of talented deaf adolescents and adults have kept the hearing audience in amazement. On the other hand, PAIDE, in its intense desire to create opportunities for its own interpreters, was able to produce talents from men and women like Nemia Abiday, Judith Delgado, Emelie Gentalian, Ludina Manalastas, Antonette Padilla, Marlon Palma, Ronald Santos and Michael Putian who presented a well choreographed artistic interpretation of different songs including “In Our Hands” that inspired everyone to utilize the power of each other’s hands in molding lives. Ms. Caroline Valdez, an interpreting student, dedicated her song “Special Memory” to the awardees while Ms. Emelie Gentalian captivated the audience when she signed the song “Tunay na Mahal” with her expressive performance. The best moments have also been given by Michael, Marlon and Ronald when they serenaded the awardees that evening. The newsteam of GMA- 7 and the Philippine Star, in cooperation with Mr. John Constantino and Ms. Shiela Crisostomo respectively, featured the event in national television and local newspapers.
Some important people helped acknowledge the contribution of interpreters in the society. Dr. Salud Evangelista, Executive Director of the Catholic Ministry to Deaf People and Ms. Mirla R. Oroles, Chief Education Program Specialist of the Department of Education have been invited as guest speakers. The other special guests were Ms. Leticia V. Uy, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of PAIDE, Mr. Ricardo Delos Santos, Corporate Secretary and Sign Language Training Consultant of PAIDE, Dr. Catherine Tuazon, Board Member of PAIDE, Mr. Julius Andrada, President of the Philippine Federation of the Deaf and Sir Jun’s youngest sister, Ms. Sheila Marie C. Canlobo, a balikbayan from the United States of America.
More than the applause, cheers and glitter that spirited the First Golden Hands Awards night for the Filipino interpreters last April 8, this event marked the unparalleled ability of PAIDE as an organization that brings out the best among its members and constantly empowers interpreters all over the Philippines. PAIDE is, until this moment, the home to the best, skillful and reliable individuals who are willing to serve with honesty and dedication because of love for the craft of signing. It honors its core group members, Nemia H. Abiday, Eva R. Eva, Judith R. Delgado, Emelie C. Gentalian, Eva Marie D. Geonzon, Vivian O. Hipolito, Ludina B. Manalastas, Ma. Antonette U. Padilla and Michael S. Putian, for the success of the first ever Golden Hands Awards. They are PAIDE’s own reserves of gold that will continue to shine on their finest through time. Congratulations to all.
By Lee Pesigan Britanico, OTRP
My sincerest greetings to the Registry of Interpreters for Deaf Empowerment as you stage a concert dubbed as “RIDE Around the Globe – A Concert in Sign Language 3” on February 28, 2004 at the Philam Life Theater. I extol RIDE’s unwavering commitment to train and produce competent and qualified sign language interpreters in various fields to serve as the voice for the hearing-impaired and deaf individuals. Indeed, your contribution to their welfare and development is indispensable. Moreover, you have made possible the breaking of the communication barrier between the hearing and the deaf. Truly, you deserve our people’s highest commendation and recognition. As you all gather and offer your skills to provide quality entertainment to the hearing-impaired, allow me to thank you for having the City of Manila as your venue of choice. I welcome all your guests and special friends, all of whom so generously offer their time and resources to further your worthy cause. The people of Manila hope for the success of this milestone event. As Father of the City, I pray that the Almighty continue to bless your works generously as only He could and that it be filled with LOVE: a language that needs no interpretation. MABUHAY ang RIDE!
The Registry of Interpreters for Deaf Empowerment continues its commitment of providing services to the deaf and the hearing community when it staged a very successful concert on February 28, 2004 at the Philamlife Theater, United Nations Ave. in the City of Manila.
Sign Language is definitely a universal language among our deaf brothers and sisters. Thus, conceptualizing a concert in sign language is original concepts, which RIDE has painstakingly created to give entertainment to both the hearing and the Deaf.
Dubbed as “RIDE Around the Globe – A Concert in Sign Language 3”. This was already the third concert produced by RIDE which aimed to raise funds for RIDE and for the Foundation for Disadvantaged Children, Inc. (FDC), a non profit foundation that gives scholarship to special children.
RIDE’s registered sign language interpreters and resident artists poured out their sweat and blood in making the concert a successful one. With Michael Potian at the helm, the audience was all enthralled with the performances. Young actress/singer Karylle of GMA Channel 7, the MAUI Boyz , the GAIL Sign Choir and the Power Appeal Boyz were the special guests.
The audience were up on the their seats from beginning to end as they watch the big production numbers as they unfolded on stage. The likes of “Let’s Get Loud”, “Manila”, “I Will Follow Him”, “Nothing Else Matters”, “Mister Suave”, “Walk Like an Egyptian”, and “Together Again” were well applauded.
Not to forget the solo performance of Maureen Caigoy as “Evita” which moved the audience and herself to tears. Direk Mike and Maureen transported the audience to a magical world when they performed “A Whole New World” from the movie Aladdin. The audience also journeyed around the globe through the different songs and dance interpretations. The numbers like “Turning Japanese”, “Cha Cha Cha”, “Can’t Stop the Music”, “Pearly Shells”, “On Ne S’aimera Plus Jamais” really entertained the crowd. They were also impressed by the performances and the colorful costumes of the Shigners who interpreted the songs “I Feel the Earth Move and Gotta Pull” by the Nolans. The solo performances of Vanessa Israel, Emelie Gentalian, Judith Delgado and Maureen Caigoy really showcased the exemplary talents as RIDE’s sign language performers. Who would forget Sir Jun Celada and Ma’am Letty Uy who gamely entertained and delighted the audience with their great performances?
It was indeed a successful night for RIDE Performers. It was well attended by the different Deaf Agencies and Organizations, family, friends, colleagues, guests and sponsors.
Kudos to the organizers and the people behind this very successful concert. We are looking forward for more concerts in the future…GO!GO! RIDE!!!!!!