FSLPi by DeafEd Philippines

 

The DeafEd DAB Training and Development Center, Inc. (DeafEd Philippines), in support of Full Life School for the Deaf, Inc., established the Filipino Sign Language Proficiency Interview (FSLPI) as its official competency-based assessment system for evaluating Filipino Sign Language (FSL) proficiency and interpreting readiness.

DeafEd Philippines is an Associate Member of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD). Through this affiliation, DeafEd aligns its programs with internationally recognized principles that promote linguistic rights, accessibility, inclusion, and Deaf empowerment.

The FSLPI is designed using a competency-based model comparable in structure and purpose to internationally recognized sign language proficiency evaluations such as the American Sign Language Proficiency Interview (ASLPI). This ensures that assessment is based on functional language use, communication effectiveness, and real-world application, rather than course completion alone.

What is FSLPI?

The Filipino Sign Language Proficiency Interview (FSLPI) is DeafEd’s official evaluation framework used to assess an individual’s:

• Receptive and expressive signing skills
• Functional use of FSL in real-life situations
• Cultural awareness and Deaf-centered communication
• Ethics, professionalism, and interpreting readiness

The FSLPI serves as the basis for the conferment of the professional titles:

• CSLI – Certified Sign Language Interpreter
• CDI – Certified Deaf Interpreter

Official Registry:
https://www.deafedph.org/interpreter-registry/csli-cdi-2026

How Certification is Earned

Certification is awarded after successful completion of a two-part competency evaluation:

1. Written Assessment

This evaluates the candidate’s theoretical knowledge in:

• FSL structure and grammar
• Deaf culture and community
• Ethics and professional standards

2. Performance Evaluation

This evaluates the candidate’s actual signing and communication skills through:

• Interview-based interaction
• Conversational tasks
• Narrative and situational responses
• Interpreting simulations for higher-level candidates

This process ensures that DeafEd certification reflects true communication and interpreting competence, not just attendance in a training program.

Training Pathway

Candidates may first complete DeafEd’s structured FSL training program. Successful course completers receive a Certificate of Training under the following progressive levels:

• Level 1 – Comprehensive Basic
• Level 2 – Conversational Level
• Level 3 – Advanced Sign Level
• Level 4 – Interpreting Level

Competency Classification

Based on FSLPI results, candidates may be classified under the following tiers:

Tier 1 – Basic (CSLI/CDI- B)

Demonstrates foundational communication skills in Filipino Sign Language.

Tier 2 – Apprentice (CSLI/CDI - A)

Demonstrates functional conversational to advanced proficiency with emerging interpreting readiness.

Tier 3 – Expert (CSLI/CDI - E)

Demonstrates high-level fluency, interpreting competence, and professional readiness.

Internal and External Applicant Rates

DeafEd Internal Applicants

For DeafEd trainees and completers of DeafEd FSL courses:
Assessment Fee: Php 2,500

External Applicants

For applicants from other training centers, institutions, or independent backgrounds:
Assessment Fee: Php 5,000

External applicants may undergo the same competency evaluation process; however, certification outcomes may be subject to DeafEd’s recognition and rating policies.

Annual Renewal

All CSLI and CDI certifications are subject to annual renewal in order to:

• Maintain sign language competency
• Recognize continued professional service
• Encourage ongoing learning and ethical practice

This renewal system supports long-term quality assurance within the DeafEd certification framework.

International Alignment

DeafEd certifications are not equivalent to U.S. licensure. However, the FSLPI framework is aligned with international best practices in sign language proficiency assessment (ASLPI), making it a strong and credible model for Filipino Sign Language competency and interpreter development.

Our Commitment

Through the FSLPI, DeafEd Philippines continues its commitment to:

• Promoting accessibility and inclusion
• Upholding professional excellence in sign language use and interpreting
• Supporting Deaf-centered communication practices
• Empowering individuals who serve the Deaf community