Essilor, the world leader for corrective lenses, launches its very first Sight Center in the country to provide optometry students access to the most advanced and updated technology in optical studies and vision solutions.
Established in partnership with the Manila Central University College of Optometry, the first Essilor Sight Center offers optometry students a venue where they can perform hands-on eyesight examinations and diagnoses in an ideal clinic set-up used by actual optometrists. The sight center features fully equipped vision screening rooms complete with clinical refraction equipment, and access to Essilor Academy’s advanced tools and practical trainings in optometry practice.
“We are happy to open our very first Essilor Sight Center in the country, with Manila Central University as our initial partner. Through this project, we hope to support optometry students in their field of specialization by giving them the opportunity to study within an ideal clinic setting, using state-of-the-art technologies and equipment in optometry,” said Dr. Emelita Roleda, Essilor general manager.
The Manila Central University-College of Optometry is one of the top optometry schools in the country. It is, in fact, the only optometry school in the Philippines recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) as a Center of Development. It has been granted Level III Accreditation status by the PACUCOA, in 2011. The college currently has more than 200 optometry students enrolled who will have the privilege of using the very first Essilor Sight Center in the Philippines.
“We are truly honored to be chosen as the initial beneficiary of the very first Essilor Sight Center in the Philippines. Through this partnership project, we can provide a better avenue for our students to learn and master their skills in optometry using Essilor Sight Center’s advanced state-of-the-art technology,” said Dr. Aristotle Malabanan, MCU President.
According to Dr. Christine Rodriguez, dean of MCU’s College of Optometry, the opening of the Essilor Sight Center is a boost to the reputation of the College as one of the best in the country. “We hope that, with the enhanced facilities and better technology that the College now offers, more students will be inspired and motivated to pursue and specialize in Optometry,” she added.
The partnership with MCU is just one of the many initiatives underscoring Essilor’s continued commitment to promote healthy vision worldwide. Aside from giving students access to advanced equipment and technology, the Essilor Sight Center was established to help students and on-the-job trainees conduct vision screening and diagnose actual cases of vision problems among the members of the community, for free.
“Access to the latest technology is very important in the education of Optometry students. Through the Sight Center, we hope to provide the reinforcement and additional tools to maximize their potential in every aspect of their career so that they can service the community and their patients well,” Dr. Roleda added.
During the launch, Essilor brand ambassador Piolo Pascual grace the blessing and formal opening of Essilor Sight Center.