Event seeks government recognition of opto at forefront of eye care

CEBU, Philippines - After the successful holding of the two-day national convention of optometrists here in Cebu, it is expected that optometry in the country will be at par with global standards, says Dr. Melissa Anglo who sits as incumbent president of the Optometric Association of the Philippines, Inc.

“After the convention, we expect optometry in the Philippines to be at par with international standards, and that the government will recognize us as front liners in primary eye care,” Dr. Anglo said.

She explained that this year’s theme, “Optometry: Reloaded and Updated” for the 61st OAP National Convention at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel in barangay Lahug, is inspired by the cliché that “the only thing constant is change”, and that before they can serve, the country’s optometrists must study, train and know “what’s in and what’s out” in the said field of specialization.

Anglo added that the association aims, for this year, to make optometry an integral part of the health care system in government.

During the opening ceremony, keynote speaker and president-elect of the World Council of Optometry Dr. George Woo conveyed this year’s theme to the participants as he talked about technological and scientific advancements in the field of optometry.

An enthusiastic Woo talked of the role and importance of optometrists. “The public demands [optometric] services…” he said.

Woo likened the need to sports vision training. He explained that the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where he is Dean of Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, has continuously served China’s national athletes prior to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. 

He mentioned that the optometrists have done a lot and have received recognition from the Chinese government after China had gathered the most gold medals during the said Olympics.

Cebu City Acting Mayor Michael Rama, who graced the event, shared his words of appreciation to the country’s optometrists. He related the political profession to the optometric industry saying that optometrists, like politicians, exist mainly to serve.

Rama also shared to the audience the quote, “Even if sight is not present but the vision is there, one can accomplish what one with sight cannot.”

Further, the convention held an exhibit by several optometric industries in the country. The OAP annually holds a national convention, as well as regional conferences whenever the need for such arises.

After over two decades, Cebu once again hosted the event participated in by delegates from various regions of the country. It was further learned that the OAP is increasing in membership with the Marinduque Optometric Association as its newest member.

The convention was carried out in commemoration of the organization’s 73rd anniversary. — Quennie Rose P. Olaño- UP Cebu, Masscom intern and Karen Grace H. Yasi (THE FREEMAN)