The Department of Education (DepEd) and the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc. (IPAO) have launched the National Vision Screening Program (NVSP), which requires vision checks for all kindergarten learners nationwide.
The program was officially launched at Rosario Elementary School in Pasig City. Its goal is to detect eye problems early so they do not affect children’s learning.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said early vision screening is an important part of preventive healthcare and helps ensure that no child falls behind in school because of an undiagnosed eye condition. He added that the program supports the government’s Universal Health Care agenda and the Marcos administration’s focus on linking health and education.
IPAO president Dr. Charlie Ho highlighted the growing global problem of vision impairment and said clear vision is essential for effective learning. He said the program aims to protect Filipino children from preventable vision problems.
The NVSP is based on Republic Act No. 11358 and includes mandatory vision screening for kindergarten learners, free prescription eyeglasses for selected students, and access to professional eye care through IPAO’s nationwide network.
The program is supported by PhilHealth through its Yaman sa Kalusugan Program. PhilHealth president Dr. Edwin Mercado said children aged 0 to 15 can now receive vision screening and prescription eyeglasses under the PhilHealth Optometric Benefit Package.
Dr. Ho said the NVSP and PhilHealth benefits currently cover learners from kindergarten to Grade 10, but IPAO is pushing to extend coverage up to Grade 12. He also thanked the national government and partner agencies for supporting the program.
IPAO is the country’s national organization of optometrists, established in 1947, and works to improve eye care standards and protect public welfare.
