Edmund Calaycay Jr. earned an important distinction for himself in recent weeks, one that also marks a welcome step forward toward courts that are accessible to the diverse residents of this state.

Calaycay is a member of the first class to finish the state's new certification program for court interpreters, and the first in the nation to be certified in the Ilocano language.

He (and other candidates, whose tests are still being graded) piloted a new Ilocano oral exam developed for the Hawai'i courts, where speakers of that Filipino language have a great need for interpreter services.

The new certification program includes written and oral tests gauging an interpreter's English proficiency, skill in translation and grasp of court proceedings and terminology. There is also a separate written test on ethics — how to remain strictly an interpreter and not become an advocate for the client, for example — as well as oral exams in various languages.

The next test cycle, including workshops for needed Micronesian interpreters, will begin soon (call the Office on Equality and Access to the Courts at 539-4860).

There are still ways to strengthen the program — passing a law to ensure its permanence would be ideal.

But after years of struggle by those who speak little English, it's good to see fair treatment for all enhanced in our courts, where language barriers must be taken down.