Philippines to Host the 18th Congress of the APVRS

MANILA – The Philippines is to host the 18th Congress of the Asia-Pacific Vitreo-Retina Society (APVRS), bringing together global experts on vision and retinal health from Dec. 12 to 14.

Organized by the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology (PAO) and the Vitreo Retina Society of the Philippines (VRSP), the congress aims to strengthen learning exchanges and collaborations on emerging science and innovations in retinal care.

APVRS 2025 will highlight scientific advancements, current disease management strategies, and opportunities to elevate vision health as a priority across Asia-Pacific countries with the theme “Retina 360: Learning, Application, Transformation, Synergy.”

Biopharmaceutical firm Roche, which develops therapies that help prevent vision loss, said it will take part in discussions focused on improving disease control, promoting long-term retinal health, and supporting data-driven approaches to patient care.

In a news release on Tuesday, Roche Philippines Inc. General Manager Diana Edralin noted that the congress provides an opportunity to engage with clinicians, researchers, and policymakers across the region while gaining insights into Asia-Pacific challenges in retina disease management.

Recent findings underscored the urgency of boosting interventions for eye health. Based on the Asia-Pacific Vision Health Survey conducted by GWI and commissioned by Roche (Philippines) Inc., eight in 10 Filipinos with diabetes report experiencing vision-related symptoms. This figure is the highest among the surveyed countries in the region.

International studies from the International Association for the Prevention of Blindness and The Lancet also show that vision impairment contributes to lower productivity, absenteeism, job losses, and increased financial and psychological strain.

In the Philippines, 89 percent of respondents with diabetes said eye-related problems affect daily routines, work performance, independence, and medical expenses, adding pressure on families and caregivers.

These challenges, according to experts, emphasize the need for early diagnosis, wider public awareness, and strengthened coordination among health stakeholders—priorities that align with conversations at APVRS 2025.