Sign language poetry contest launched

The Commission on the Filipino Language, or Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF), has launched a poetry contest in sign language intended to promote Filipino deaf culture through literature.

In an announcement on Thursday, the commission said its “Timpalak sa Tulang Senyas” would be the first competition in sign language open to the public by the KWF. It aims to “recognize and give space to the indomitable skills and talents of deaf people” and for them to contribute to Filipino poetry through their pieces in sign language poetry.

KWF said this year’s competition was open to anyone adept at Filipino Sign Language.

The entries, which can be submitted until Feb. 1, should be a sign language poem of 24 to 40 lines with the theme about the “role of literature in keeping the country’s peace.”