Manila: The Philippines is set to host the 18th Congress of the Asia-Pacific Vitreo-Retina Society (APVRS) from December 12 to 14, uniting global specialists in vision and retinal health. This event is organized by the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Vitreo Retina Society of the Philippines (VRSP) with the goal of enhancing learning exchanges and collaborations on the latest scientific developments and innovations in retinal care.

According to Philippines News Agency, the APVRS 2025 congress will focus on scientific advancements, current strategies for disease management, and the promotion of vision health as a priority in Asia-Pacific countries. The event will revolve around the theme ‘Retina 360: Learning, Application, Transformation, Synergy.’ Biopharmaceutical company Roche, known for its vision loss prevention therapies, will participate in discussions aimed at enhancing disease control, promoting long-term retinal health, and supporting data-driven approaches to patient care.

In a recent news release, Roche Philippines Inc. General Manager Diana Edralin emphasized the congress as a platform to engage with clinicians, researchers, and policymakers throughout the region, gaining insights into the challenges faced in managing retina diseases in Asia-Pacific. Recent findings highlight the urgency of improving interventions for eye health. The Asia-Pacific Vision Health Survey, conducted by GWI and commissioned by Roche (Philippines) Inc., revealed that eight in ten Filipinos with diabetes report experiencing vision-related symptoms, the highest proportion among surveyed countries in the region.

International research from the International Association for the Prevention of Blindness and The Lancet indicates that vision impairment leads to reduced productivity, absenteeism, job losses, and increased financial and psychological burdens. In the Philippines, 89 percent of respondents with diabetes stated that eye-related issues impact daily life, work performance, independence, and medical expenses, placing additional stress on families and caregivers.

Experts argue that these challenges underscore the need for early diagnosis, increased public awareness, and strengthened coordination among health stakeholders, priorities that align with the discussions planned for APVRS 2025.