The Department of Education (DepEd), in partnership with the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc. (IPAO), officially launched the National Vision Screening Program (NVSP) at the Rosario Elementary School in Pasig City.
The program mandates vision screening for all kindergarten learners nationwide, ensuring early detection of eye conditions that may hinder learning.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, principal author of the National Vision Screening Act, emphasized the importance of early intervention.
“Preventive healthcare must begin as early as possible, and vision screening ensures that no child is left behind simply because of an undetected eye condition. This initiative reflects our commitment to Universal Health Care and to President Marcos Jr.’s education agenda, which links health and education as twin priorities. By detecting vision problems early, we give our learners the best chance to succeed in school and beyond,” Angara said.
Dr. Charlie Ho, IPAO National President, underscored the global urgency of eye health.
“Clear vision is the gateway to effective learning. The World Health Organization projects that by 2050, the number of people needing eye care will dramatically increase, with billions already living with vision impairment today. If we do not act decisively, this crisis will affect generations. Through NVSP, we are taking proactive steps to ensure Filipino children are not part of that alarming statistic,” he said.
The NVSP is a cornerstone of DepEd’s preventive health strategy–reinforcing that healthy learners are better learners.
The program includes mandatory vision screening for all kindergarten learners, provision of prescription eyeglasses to selected children, and expanded access to professional eye care through IPAO’s nationwide network.
Supported by the PhilHealth’s Yaman sa Kalusugan Program (Yakap), the NVSP reflects the government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and aligns with the Universal Health Care agenda.
PhilHealth president Edwin Mercado said they launched the PhilHealth Optometric Benefit Package where children aged zero to 15 are provided access to vision screening and prescription eyeglasses.
“These benefits give every Filipino child an opportunity to learn, gain self-confidence, and a better future. Our goal is to ensure the well-being of Filipino learners by strengthening primary healthcare benefits that include preventing visual impairments and permanent blindness–and assure them of better quality of lives someday,” he said.
