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# EFP Today

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## Posts

- [PAO 2026 Midyear Convention: Vision in Gold, Elevating the Future of Eye Health](https://www.efptoday.com/pao-2026-midyear-convention-vision-in-gold-elevating-the-future-of-eye-health/): By Dr. Dino L. CamoniasPresident, Northern Mindanao Society of
- [Adventures to Seek in Cagayan de Oro City](https://www.efptoday.com/adventures-to-seek-in-cagayan-de-oro-city/): By Dr. Suzanne Dorothy Lapasaran – Lim Cagayan de Oro is widely celebrated as the “adventure capital” of the Philippines, offering a diverse array of activities that cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. The city’s most iconic experience is guided whitewater rafting on the Cagayan de Oro River, where visitors can navigate 14 to 25 rapids ranging from beginner to advanced levels. This three to five-hour excursion also offers scenic jungle views and opportunities for cliff jumping along the riverbanks. For those who prefer land-based nature adventures, the nearby F.S. Catanico Falls serves as a pocket paradise for nature lovers, featuring a hidden
- [Dilated and Delighted: A Clear View Into CDO’s Food Scene](https://www.efptoday.com/dilated-and-delighted-a-clear-view-into-cdos-food-scene/): By Dr. Shasta Grace D. Tiro After a long day in the hospital, my favorite way to reset is by trading my ophthalmoscope for a pair of utensils. There is something incredibly therapeutic about the way a vibrant, delicious plate of food can instantly clear your mental fog. It’s the best kind of “eye candy” to help me rest and unwind. If you’re craving seafood in Cagayan de Oro, Redtail Shrimps & More is the place where you absolutely have to get your hands dirty. Their Fisherman’s Catch comes loaded with a massive spread of shrimps, crabs, and mussels. The
- [PAO Midyear Convention 2026: Elevating the Future of Eye Health](https://www.efptoday.com/pao-midyear-convention-2026-elevating-the-future-of-eye-health/): By Dr. Maria Christine L. Dy Whether you’re drawn to laid-back island vibes or thrilling mountain trails, the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO), in collaboration with the Northern Mindanao Society of Ophthalmology (NMSO), invites you to another destination congress – the PAO Midyear Convention 2026.  To be held at Luxe Hotel in Cagayan De Oro City from April 29 to May 1, this year’s gathering carries the theme “Vision in Gold: Elevating the Future of Eye Health.” Brace yourselves for a learning getaway like no other.   Known as the “City of Golden Friendship,” Cagayan De Oro offers a refreshing contrast
- [A New Chapter in Philippine Ophthalmology: Getting to know the 2026-2027 PAO Executive Council](https://www.efptoday.com/a-new-chapter-in-philippine-ophthalmology-getting-to-know-the-2026-2027-pao-executive-council/): By Dr. Mara Sabrina Clemente and Dr. Ulysses Joseph Yap The 2024–2025
- [The APAO is coming back to Manila in 2028!](https://www.efptoday.com/the-apao-is-coming-back-to-manila-in-2028/): The Executive Council is delighted to announce that PAO won the bid to host the 43rd Congress of the APAO with an overwhelming majority vote. We are excited to welcome APAO back to its birthplace and showcase the Philippines
- [PAO talks with key Philhealth Officials](https://www.efptoday.com/pao-talks-with-key-philhealth-officials/): March 26, 2025 Today, members of the PAO Executive Council and the PAO Cataract Task Force held a third dialogue with key Philhealth officials to discuss implementation strategies 
- [Baguio: Your New Wellness Getaway](https://www.efptoday.com/baguio-your-new-wellness-getaway/): Dr. Ezra Saliba Escape the heat this April at the “City of Pines”, Baguio City, Benguet! As the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio is a year-round favorite for tourists, known for its cool weather, vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and unfortunately, the traffic. But don’t worry! Listed below are activities that get you out or at least minimize the roadblock without compromising the experience.  Start your day with a peaceful hike along the charming trails of Camp John Hay, where both beginners and challengers can find enjoyment. Take in the refreshing experience of forest bathing on the gentle Yellow Trail,
- [Hope and Awareness Shine at the Regalong Pag-asa Retinitis Pigmentosa Lay Forum](https://www.efptoday.com/hope-and-awareness-shine-at-the-regalong-pag-asa-retinitis-pigmentosa-lay-forum/): Nikolai Thadeus Mappatao, MD-MBA, Manuel Benjamin Ibañez, DPBO, FPAO MANILA, Philippines — The DOH Eye
- [DIY Tokyo Travel Tips](https://www.efptoday.com/diy-tokyo-travel-tips/): By Dr. Michelle Quinto Araneta Japan is becoming more popular than ever as a vacation destination for Filipinos. These are the common must-sees for those who plan to visit or revisit Tokyo this summer, DIY (Do-It-Yourself) style. Maybe plan a vacation with your Ophtha friends! All are accessible by public transportation and do not have entrance fees. If you have time, visit Hakone National Park located west of Tokyo. Take the Romance car and buy the day pass (gives access to the train, bus, cable car, and boat, where you can see Mt. Fuji from afar on a clear day).
- [APSOPRS 2024 CONGRESS IN SEOUL](https://www.efptoday.com/apsoprs-2024-congress-in-seoul/): Contributed by: Jake Uy Sebastian The snowy South Korean capital welcomed delegates of the Asia Pacific Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive
- [PAO Midyear Convention 2025: Scaling New Heights in Ophthalmology](https://www.efptoday.com/pao-midyear-convention-2025-scaling-new-heights-in-ophthalmology/): By: Dr. Jessica Belle Sy Get ready to create lasting memories at the PAO Midyear Convention 2025! Whether you’re a frequent visitor, returning to Baguio after
- [Did Someone Say, “Destination Postgrad?” G!‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎](https://www.efptoday.com/did-someone-say-destination-postgrad-g/): By Dr. Patricia Anne C. Concepcion Last August 10, 2024, ophthalmologists, residents, and general physicians who dream of becoming eye doctors, from
- [Tapping into Techniques and Tapas: My ESCRS 2024 Experience](https://www.efptoday.com/tapping-into-techniques-and-tapas-my-escrs-2024-experience/): Bobbie Marie M. Santos, MD, PhD, DPBO The 42nd Congress of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), held in Barcelona, Spain from
- [SPMC launches first cross-linking machine in Mindanao](https://www.efptoday.com/spmc-launches-first-cross-linking-machine-in-mindanao/): Janin Lou C. Billano, MD, DPBO Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), Davao City— Constituents of Davao City and neighboring provinces who are candidates
- [POIS 1st Interhospital Quiz Bee](https://www.efptoday.com/pois-1st-interhospital-quiz-bee/): The Philippine Ocular Inflammation Society (POIS) brought the house down on August 31, 2024, with the first-ever nationwide Interhospital Uveitis Quiz Bee! Held at the Benavides Cancer Institute Auditorium, University of Sto. Tomas, Manila, this epic showdown saw 24 ophthalmology training institutes from all over the country including teams from Baguio General Hospital and Medical....
- [PAO at the 37th Singapore- Malaysia Joint Meeting in Ophthalmology highlights](https://www.efptoday.com/pao-at-the-37th-singapore-malaysia-joint-meeting-in-ophthalmology-highlights/): Written by: Dr. Charisse Tanlapco Academia, Singapore- It was a busy, yet fulfilling time for members and members
- [St. Luke’s Eye Institute Hosts Innovative 27th Postgraduate Course: "Naughty or Neyes: Comparing Old and New Techniques"](https://www.efptoday.com/st-lukes-eye-institute-hosts-innovative-27th-postgraduate-course-naughty-or-neyes-comparing-old-and-new-techniques/): Written by: Dr. Julian Rafaello C. Malabanan and Dr. Sharmaine Anjanette G. Ng In a remarkable gathering of minds and expertise, the St. Luke’s Eye Institute proudly hosted its 27th postgraduate course, titled “Naughty or Neyes: Comparing Old and New Techniques,” held at the St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City, Henry Sy Auditorium last December 2, 2023, this unique one-day face-to-face scientific program was a resounding success! It drew the participation of 177 attendees, including ophthalmologists, fellows, and residents in training. The event served as a vibrant platform for experts from diverse ophthalmological subspecialties exploring the rich legacy of
- [The new Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) Executive Council for 2024-2025 has been sworn in. Let us get to know them in this short snippet!](https://www.efptoday.com/the-new-philippine-academy-of-ophthalmology-pao-executive-council-for-2024-2025-has-been-sworn-in-let-us-get-to-know-them-in-this-short-snippet/): 1. What is your favorite virtue? My favorite virtue is humility. It is acknowledging your talents and capabilities as gifts and blessings and using them to help others without fanfare
- [BEYOND THE SILVER LINING](https://www.efptoday.com/beyond-the-silver-lining/): The Philippine Glaucoma Society and 25 years of Preserving the Gift of Sight The Philippine Glaucoma Society celebrated its 25 th year anniversary with asymposium on the first day of the Annual PAO Convention held last November 29 toDecember 2, 2022. In keeping with its commitment to provide world-class academicguidance to its fellow professionals, a wide array of topics was discussed by leadingexperts in the field. These included OCT Imaging, judicious use of glaucomadiagnostics, evolution of anti-glaucoma medications, and the roles of Trabeculectomyand MIGs. A rapid-fire styled presentation on Angle Closure Glaucoma was alsopresented by fellows from UP-PGH, DOH Eye
- [The VRSP Mulat Mata Project: Saving Filipinos from Diabetic Retinopathy Blindness](https://www.efptoday.com/the-vrsp-mulat-mata-project-saving-filipinos-from-diabetic-retinopathy-blindness/): Written by: Glenn Alog, MD Every 14th of November, World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated to increase public awareness regarding diabetes and its complications. This year’s theme continues from 2021’s “Access to Diabetes Care”1which aims to identify diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM) risk in order to reduce the burden of the disease. It stresses the importance of access to information and care leading to prompt treatment and management of the disease. Common complications of diabetes include visual loss, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke, nerve problems, and poor wound healing that could lead to amputation.2 Among the mentioned problems, retinopathy can often
- [PiNoY Energy in Full Swing By Dr Erika Salvame](https://www.efptoday.com/pinoy-energy-in-full-swingby-dr-erika-salvame/): The Philippine Network of Young Ophthalmologist (PiNoY) celebrated its debut involvement in international conferences at the 6th ASEAN Ophthalmology Society (AOS) Congress held in Manila Philippines from October 17 to 19, 2023. Led by Dr. Charisse Tanlapco, PiNOY conducted 4 major activities throughout the congress period. This included 3 scientific sessions and 1 cocktail session. In line with this year’s theme of Global Trends through Regional Perspective, the delegates were treated to a wide array of inspiring talks from seasoned ophthalmologists including AOS congress president Dr. Ruben Lim Bon Siong, VRSP President Dr Harvey Uy, and much more. Topics ranged
- [App and About!](https://www.efptoday.com/app-and-about/): Must-have Mobile Apps for Every PiNoYJanin Lou Billano, MD and Melissa Anne Santos-Gonzales, MD Smartphones have become one of the most important necessities in this modern digital age. It has also been a very important clinical tool for physicians across all specialties by providing functions ranging from record-keeping, e-books, mobile diagnostic tools, reviewers and a whole lot more. For us, ophthalmologists, various apps are available on Apple’s App Store and Google Play that will certainly make our practice and training a whole lot easier and meaningful. 1. American Academy of Ophthalmology Related Apps(Available in App Store and Google Play)There are
- [Three Stars and A Sun at the ASOPRS 2023](https://www.efptoday.com/three-stars-and-a-sun-at-the-asoprs-2023/): The Pearl of the Orient shone brightly in the recently concluded 54th Annual Fall Scientific Symposium of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (ASOPRS) in San Francisco, CA, USA on November 2-3, 2023. Three Filipino Ophthalmologists seized the opportunity to showcase their research studies and surgical videos: These three proud Pinoys are honored to represent the motherland, aspiring to inspire future Ophthalmologists and residents in training to think globally and aim for international scientific meetings.
- [The 6th ASEAN Ophthalmology Society Congress: Celebrating a Decade of Vision and Innovation](https://www.efptoday.com/the-6th-asean-ophthalmology-society-congress-celebrating-a-decade-of-vision-and-innovation/): Written by: Dr. Faye Levina, Dr. Jose Carlo Artiaga The 6th ASEAN Ophthalmology Society Congress (AOS) marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 10th founding anniversary in conjunction with the Annual Congress of the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology. This remarkable event brought together ophthalmologists and eye care professionals from ASEAN nations, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, The Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. Held from October 18 to 20, 2023, at the SMX Convention Center in Metro Manila, Philippines, this congress was a momentous face-to-face meeting following the COVID-19 pandemic, with 1858 local and foreign delegates in attendance.
- [Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Leadership Development Program MasterClass 2023 goes to Manila!](https://www.efptoday.com/asia-pacific-academy-of-ophthalmology-leadership-development-program-masterclass-2023-goes-to-manila/): Written by: Chay Tanlapco, MD, DPBO, FPAO The APAO Leadership Development Program (LDP) has been dedicated to equipping prospective leaders in ophthalmology within our region with essential professional growth skills and a structured orientation since its inception in 2009. This comprehensive program encompasses a series of components and activities, including an Orientation Class, a Midyear MasterClass, and a Graduation Workshop. This year, the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) took the privilege of hosting the Midyear MasterClass at the prestigious Grand Hyatt Hotel, situated in the vibrant Bonifacio Global City Taguig, Metro Manila, from August 18 to 20, 2023. This event
- [Around the Philippines: A Perspective on the Demographics of Pinoy Ophthalmology Training](https://www.efptoday.com/around-the-philippines-a-perspective-on-the-demographics-of-pinoy-ophthalmology-training/): While we are fortunate that the Philippines is home to some of the best landscapes and islands in the world, the same pose geographic and economic challenges when it comes to public health, specifically eye health services. On top of the difficulties in the establishment of eye centers and acquisition of ophthalmic equipment, recruitment of subspecialists is likewise crucial in maintaining standards in training residents and delivering health care. Acceptance into ophthalmology residency programs in our country is highly competitive, with 22 training institutions located in Metro Manila and 11 in the provinces. Subspecialty training, on the other hand, is
- [Economic Recession: Should I Be Afraid?](https://www.efptoday.com/economic-recession-should-i-be-afraid/): Listen to Dr. Francis Lee Hok as he tackles on the looming recession and how to prepare for it. 00:00 Introduction 01:20 What is recession ? 13:01 How are we in the Philippines ? 16:06 How to manage my finances at this time ? 21:08 How much dollar should I buy before the recession happens ? 26:05 What changes in my income stream / investment should I consider ? 31:00 How can we protect our liquid assets ? 34:05 Is real estate a viable investment option at this time ? 36:22 How do we find the silver lining ? 41:12
- [Proust Questionnaire](https://www.efptoday.com/proust-questionnaire/): 1. What is your favorite virtue? My favorite virtue is humility. It is acknowledging your talents and capabilities as gifts and blessings and using them to help others without fanfare
- [A 1st year Resident in Ophthalmology amidst the Pandemic](https://www.efptoday.com/a-1st-year-resident-in-ophthalmology-amidst-the-pandemic/): Realizing the dream Finding out that I got accepted to the program of Ophthalmology in JRRMMC was a very memorable day for me because this really has been my dream
- [NOSP 2022 News Bits #1](https://www.efptoday.com/nosp-2022-news-bits-1/): The Neuro-Ophthalmology Society of the Philippines (NOSP) successfully held the 1st Virtual NOSP Interhospital Grand Rounds last March 25, 2022.  Ophthalmology trainees from 11 institutions participated in this learning activity, which is a testament to NOSP’s commitment to provide high quality education in the field of neuro-ophthalmology.    The residents who presented interesting cases were Dr. Katrina Cyril Macalintal from Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (Two-mor Headaches), Dr. Joseph Michael Viray Jr. from Cebu Velez General Hospital (O.M.G. ON na? A diagnostic dilemma), and Dr. Bea Therese Basco from the University of Santo Tomas Hospital (When Lightning Strikes). NOSP reactors were
- [The CTB: Unabridged](https://www.efptoday.com/the-ctb-unabridged/): The Editorial Staff of the PAO Coffee Table Book would like to thank all the PAO members for the very positive and encouraging feedback given during its book
- [Financial Acuity In Times of Crisis](https://www.efptoday.com/financial-acuity-in-times-of-crisis/): Dollar Investment In gold we trust S&P 500 10 year Philippine Government Bond Cryptocurrency Importance of Insurance Raoul Paolo D. Henson Oculoplastic surgeon Lasik surgeon Entrepreneur Investor Crypto
- [Where Science and Art Converge](https://www.efptoday.com/where-science-and-art-converge/): Where Science and Art Converge “Doing eye illustrations is an expression of 2 things I’m passionate about – ophthalmology and doing sketches. Practicing my skills allows me to improve at both. I’m still imagining ways on how to teach and learn ophthalmology through my illustrations,” That was how Dr. John Alfred Lim explained why he pursued digital art. This Cebu-based vitreo-retina specialist’s  artistic renderings of the posterior pole have been featured in various social media accounts such as the Philippine Network of Young Ophthalmologists (PiNoY) Instagram and Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Young Ophthalmologists Facebook Group. Through his own Instagram
- [The PSCRS takes the first LEAP](https://www.efptoday.com/the-pscrs-takes-the-first-leap/): Diverting from the usual presentations on Cataract Surgery, the PSCRS began the PAO LEAP with a session on Phakic IOL Implantation. The procedure is a feasible alternative to Refractive Laser Surgery especially for eyes that have contra-indications to the latter. Phakic IOL Implantation can be an added capability for any eye surgeon who does not have access to a refractive laser machine. An operating room equipped for cataract surgery and a few instruments are all that’s needed. Currently, the STAAR Intraocular Collamer Lens (ICL) is the choice of PSCRS panelists. Dr. Bobby Ang began with the usual erudite presentation on
- [FEU-NRMF Providing Effective, Efficient, Accessible, and State-of-the-Art Service](https://www.efptoday.com/feu-nrmf-providing-effective-efficient-accessible-and-state-of-the-art-service/): As millions face changes brought on by the pandemic, the FEU-NRMF Department of Ophthalmology strives to adjust to the “new
- [We Knew It Was Coming But…](https://www.efptoday.com/we-knew-it-was-coming-but/): The start of 2022 was rough for the province of Cebu. Aside from the threat of rising COVID-19 cases, the latter half of December was met with heavy rainfall and strong winds. Typhoon Odette managed to inflict heavy damage to our cities and municipalities wherein its after effects extended up to the new year. The ravaging winds dismantled homes, took off roofs, damaged walls, uprooted trees, and took down electricity and phone lines. We knew a storm was coming but we did not expect it to be this strong. Our institution, Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center, was not spared as
- [CSMC Eye Clinic 2022](https://www.efptoday.com/csmc-eye-clinic-2022/): We have all struggled to maintain a semblance of normalcy during the pandemic.  Like most institutions, Cardinal Santos Medical Center went through the hardships  of dealing with Covid cases, the lack of Ophtha cases and the  Great Uncertainty. We found ourselves trying to just survive then later on push ourselves to adapt to the new times. With the closure of our Out-Patient Department and duty schedule adjusted to skeletal mode, we benefited from having time to attend most zoom lectures.  Suddenly, our residents can now attend local as well as international lectures. We welcomed the PREx  (formerly OPEX) with some 
- [De La Salle University Medical Center Covid Response](https://www.efptoday.com/de-la-salle-university-medical-center-covid-response/): The COVID 19 pandemic caught us all off guard, but we did not remain defenseless. The De La Salle University Medical Center- Department of Ophthalmology caters to people’s eye health not only in Cavite but also to its neighboring provinces. Changes had to be made to maintain everyone’s safety while still providing continuing care and education. It was overwhelming at the onset of the pandemic how to adapt to such changes. Numerous consultations with different component medical societies were done to come up with acceptable implementing rules and regulations pertaining to the safety of everyone. It was heartbreaking at the
- [Resilience, Perseverance and Cooperation of FUMC Ophthalmology](https://www.efptoday.com/resilience-perseverance-and-cooperation-of-fumc-ophthalmology/): The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged many aspects of our society and one of those is our clinical practice and medical education in the field of Ophthalmology. But with the
- [Philippine Ocular Inflammation Society 2022](https://www.efptoday.com/philippine-ocular-inflammation-society-2022/): The Philippine Ocular Inflammation Society (POIS) has been a steadfast subspecialty society under the auspices of the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO). Since its
- [The Road to the First IAC in the Philippines](https://www.efptoday.com/the-road-to-the-first-iac-in-the-philippines/): The Road to the First IAC in the Philippines “The long and winding road that leads to your door will never disappear.” These words from Paul McCartney and John Lennon constantly played in my mind while I was preparing for the first Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy (IAC) in the country. The journey to that day wasn’t straight at all and there were bumps, which you will read later, along the way.  Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy is a game changing treatment in retinoblastoma (RB). A microcatheter is inserted in the femoral artery which is  guided fluoroscopically to the ophthalmic artery and once there the chemotherapeutic
- [Bounce Back Faster: Money Tips Beyond the Pandemic](https://www.efptoday.com/bounce-back-faster-money-tips-beyond-the-pandemic/): We were hit by a black swan event. This pandemic is a once in a hundred-year event. Many of us are caught off-guard and unprepared. Nobody was spared. It impacted our lives, our practice, our families in many different ways. But we are coming out of this crisis humbled, but stronger and wiser. This crisis gave us time to pause, to think, to reevaluate our priorities, realign our goals, and value and cherish what truly is important.  Since biblical times, there is always a major crisis once every 7-10 years. It just takes on different forms, environmental, plagues, natural calamities,
- [QMMC adapting to the New Normal](https://www.efptoday.com/qmmc-adapting-to-the-new-normal/): Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the goal of the Quirino Memorial  Medical Center Ophthalmology Department has been to strike a balance between  ensuring patient and staff safety and continuously providing quality eye care services.  The COVID-19 situation is regularly assessed by administrative heads and  adjustments are made in response to the needs and protocols implemented in the  hospital. In the process of complying with the limits set by the DOH and our hospital  administration, clinical exposure saw a significant drop, and the training needs of  ophthalmology residents were compromised. Hospital work hours were substantially less.  To compensate, online
- [Hope in Santa Cruz](https://www.efptoday.com/hope-in-santa-cruz/): Among the most inauspicious highlights of the 21st Century, the COVID 19 pandemic deserves the top spot. The amount of change, torment, and struggles it delivers up to the present, from the healthcare workers to the patients and their families are immeasurable. Uncertainty holds sway in the consciousness of most, if not all of us, as the current situation of sickness and devastation grimly reminds us of how brittle and short human life is. The proverbial light at the end of the tunnel continue to flicker as we begin to realize by now that we are in for a tough
- [Philippine Network of Young Ophthalmologists (PiNoY): A Silver Lining Amidst the Pandemic](https://www.efptoday.com/philippine-network-of-young-ophthalmologists-pinoy-a-silver-lining-amidst-the-pandemic/): The sound of a cell phone relentlessly ringing in the silence of a pandemic lockdown can be one of the most jarring in the world.
- [Covid-19 at The Sentro Oftalmologico Jose Rizal](https://www.efptoday.com/covid-19-at-the-sentro-oftalmologico-jose-rizal/): The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a lot of challenges to the practice of  ophthalmology. Government-mandated quarantine restrictions and the declaration of the  Philippine General Hospital in March 2020 as one of the COVID Referral Centers in Metro  Manila added to the complexity of fulfilling our mandate of serving our countrymen in need  of ophthalmologic care.  In the first 3 months of the pandemic, the Sentro Oftalmologico Jose Rizal was  closed, with medical and nursing staff deployed to the COVID wards. Only patients with  urgent ophthalmologic conditions which did not require admission or surgery were seen  at the emergency room. All
- [Eye Fight Covid-19](https://www.efptoday.com/eye-fight-covid-19/): Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) has been actively participating in our combat against the SARSCoV-2 virus. Likewise, the CSMC – Ophthalmology Department is committed to upholding it’s values of delivering the highest quality of eye care despite the untoward conditions. During the height of the pandemic, a lot of people have been disheartened and the forced isolation has led to poor accessibility to health care. The series of unfortunate events and the uncertainty of when this circumstance will come to an end have distorted everyone’s clear vision of a promising future. Despite the ambiguity of our situation, the only vivid
- [No Lockdown for Learning](https://www.efptoday.com/no-lockdown-for-learning/): Virtual consult via Zoom with the EAMC Ophthalmology Amidst the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world suddenly came to a halt. Simultaneous lockdowns everywhere, businesses closing down, people required to stay indoors; everything was clouded with uncertainty. One aspect greatly affected was the medical education system.  Prior to the pandemic, hospitals were filled with young doctors-in-training who were rotating in different hospital departments learning skills and experiencing the reality that they will face once they become licensed physicians. However, due to the unexpected circumstances, the education system had to convert to non-conventional platforms of learning. Somehow, some fields were
- [From Clinic to Canvas: WVSO collaborates to form art group](https://www.efptoday.com/from-clinic-to-canvas-wvso-collaborates-to-form-art-group/): Opening night of Bulúng exhibition with some of the exhibitors: (L-R) Krys Balmaceda, Amee Ponje, Eva Catedral, Minda Cabrera, Dureza Abad, Janet Beltran, Anna- Marie Velasco and Noel Tongson. Painting is a hobby engaged in by many doctors. The artworks that are produced are hung inside their respective homes or clinics and rarely exhibited in art galleries and museums. But for the doctors of Western Visayas Society of  Ophthalmology (WVSO), they broke this barrier  by collaborating with other doctor artists to mount an art exhibition. This hobby has turned into an art group named, The After Clinic Group.  “Bulúng” in
- [e-Learning for Ophthalmology Residents](https://www.efptoday.com/e-learning-for-ophthalmology-residents/): The Covid Pandemic has affected all aspects of our lives including education and training. One of the silver linings of this pandemic is that video-conferencing platforms were forced to upgrade, enhance, and update their technology, thereby making e-learning less frustrating and more enjoyable.  We interviewed Dr. Marie Joan Loy, the Residency Training Officer of St. Luke’s Medical Center, to share with us her experience and some tips on how to take full advantage of e-learning activities.  Dr. Marie Joan Loy is the Assistant Head and Ophthalmology Residency Training Officer of St. Luke’s Medical Center – Eye Institute. She is also
- [An Ophthalmologist as an Anti-COVID Warrior](https://www.efptoday.com/an-ophthalmologist-as-an-anti-covid-warrior/): Vaccination volunteer pic. Credits: Dr. Irwin Cua Last year, a Chinese ophthalmologist sounded the alarm regarding COVID, and he later died after contracting this dreadful disease.   Friends in the medical specialties risk their lives to take care of COVID patients in the hospital. It got me thinking — Was I, an ophthalmologist practicing in the Philippines, doing enough in the fight against COVID?  How could I help? The Central Visayas Society of Ophthalmology and the local UP Medical Alumni Society in Cebu were very helpful to our community at the beginning of the pandemic.  They helped source and distributed

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- [IN FOCUS](https://www.efptoday.com/features/in-focus/): The Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology recently elected the 2022-2023 Executive Council. To know more about them beyond their profession, the eFPToday will feature them here in IN FOCUS where we regularly shine the spotlight on our colleagues in the field of ophthalmology. To kick off this series, we start with Dr. Vicente Victor Ocampo Jr., our new President, who gave very interesting and revealing answers to our Proust Questionnaire. Read on! 25 Apr 2022 PROUST QUESTIONNAIRE efp_team 0 09 Feb 2022 Bounce Back Faster: Money Tips Beyond the Pandemic We were hit by a black swan event. This pandemic is
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- [President’s Corner](https://www.efptoday.com/presidents-corner/): PRESIDENT’S CORNER In a flash, my 2 year term has come to an end. It has been quite a ride and it was truly a very enriching and rewarding experience. There was much optimism and excitement at the start of 2022 realizing that I would be the one to lead the Academy in transitioning from the stringent restrictions of the COVID pandemic to life under the so-called new normal. With the uncertainties of the times still looming largely, I was determined to jumpstart the organization and pursue our vision to be the exemplary medical society, recognized locally and internationally, as
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- [ABOUT US](https://www.efptoday.com/about-us/): E-FOCAL POINT EDITORIAL STAFF 2026-2027 Ulysses Joseph Yap, MDEditor-in-Chief Mara Sabrina Clemente, MDAssistant to the Editor-in-Chief Melody Tan Daclan, MDAssociate Editor Patricia Ann Lee, MDNews Editor Luis Andino Santos, MDFeatures Editor Mary Ellaine Diaz, MDCirculations & Engagement Editor Yvette Marie Santiago-Gatmaitan, MDManaging Editor ABOUT US: We are a diverse group of ophthalmologists from across the country, each bringing unique perspectives from our respective specialties. We aim to be your trusty source for all things ophthalmology in this corner of the world, keeping you abreast with the activities of the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology. We’re here to inform, connect, and inspire
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