SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – In a bid to address potential learning barriers, the Department of Health (DOH) in Ilocos Region, in partnership with the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center, conducted vision screenings among Grade 2 and 3 pupils of Catbangen Central School here on Aug. 9.
The initiative coincided with Sight Saving Month, a yearly observance highlighting the importance of eye health.
DOH Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco stressed the significance of early detection of vision impairments, emphasizing its impact on a child’s overall development.
“Some children may not be aware they have vision problems, and when they are not given proper attention, it will affect their academic performance. With regular screening, this problem can be detected and corrected early,” she said.
Sydiongco stated, “Our vision is very important, and it is an important part of a child’s overall health and development. We need to give it enough value because it affects their physical, intellectual, social, and emotional well-being.”
Over 350 students underwent vision examinations, with a parallel lecture on blindness prevention.
Jade Sanico, a beneficiary, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to have his eyesight checked and learn about proper eye care.
Francisco De Vera, Jr., Regional Blindness Prevention Program coordinator, underscored the program’s role in strengthening the National Prevention of Blindness Program (NPBP).
“The NPBP focuses on three major eye conditions, including blindness due to cataracts, uncorrected refractive errors (URE), and childhood blindness. And we have to identify children with eye problems and immediately refer them to eye centers for treatment,” De Vera emphasized.
The collaborative effort involving the San Fernando City Health Office and the Department of Education-Schools Division of La Union underscores the commitment to safeguarding the vision of young learners. (AMB/PIA Region 1)
