UP Manila, IPAO, and AOC Academy Forge Partnership for Development of Optometry Program at the College of Allied Medical Professions

 On June 10, 2025, the University of the Philippines Manila made official its partnership with the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists, Inc. (IPAO) and the Asia Optometric Congress (AOC) Academy to establish a pioneering Doctor of Optometry program. The ceremonial signing was held at the UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Board Room, marking a strategic move to strengthen eye health education and services in the country.

Signatories were Dr. Michael L. Tee (Chancellor, UP Manila) and Dr. Charlie L. Ho (National President, IPAO and Chairman, AOC Academy), witnessed by Dr. Esmerita R. Rotor (Dean, College of Allied Medical Professions), Dr. Christine S. Rodriguez (Chair, PRC Board of Optometry; Chair, CHED Technical Panel for Optometry Education), and Dr. Katherine M. De Mesa (Honorary Secretary, AOC Academy).

The collaboration aims to develop a globally aligned, evidence-based curriculum that integrates public health, clinical excellence, and technological innovation. Program development is spearheaded by a Technical Working Group (TWG) led by Dr. Maria Eliza R. Aguila. Members of the TWG include optometry and ophthalmology practitioners and educators Dr. Carmen Abesamis Dichoso, Dr. Cesar A. Perez, Jr., and Dr. Victor Arni D.P. Sicam. Though not present at the ceremony, key contributors include Atty. Bayani F. Abesamis, an advocate of the Revised Optometry Law of 1995 (RA 8050), Dr. Teresita R. Castillo of the Department of Ophthalmology at UP College of Medicine, and globally recognized experts and educators, Professor James S. Wolffsohn of Aston University, UK and Professor George Woo of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Also present were Dr. John Nakpil, National Chairman of IPAO, Hon. Mario T. Flores Jr., member of the PRC Board of Optometry, key faculty and administrators from UP Manila and the UP College of Allied Medical Professions, reflecting the university’s strong institutional commitment. 

This partnership sets the stage for a new era in optometric education, rooted in academic excellence, professional collaboration, and a shared vision for accessible, high-quality eye care in the Philippines and beyond.

Written by: Gabriella Isabel R. Tablante-Santos, PTRP
Edited by: Aila Nica J. Bandong, PhD, PTRP and Yves Y. Palad, EdD, PTRP