VISION CARE FOR KIDS ACT FILED BY VILLAR TO IMPROVE PEDIATRIC EYE HEALTH

Senator Mark Villar filed Senate Bill No. 1886, or the Vision Care for Kids Act, to expand access to eye care services for Filipino children, especially in underserved communities.

The measure seeks to establish a grant program under the Department of Health to fund local government initiatives for comprehensive eye exams, treatments, and eyeglasses for children identified with vision problems.

Studies show that over 10 percent of Filipino kindergarten-aged children have poor vision, with many cases undiagnosed, which can hinder learning and development.

The bill also allocates resources for awareness campaigns to help parents, teachers, and healthcare providers recognize early signs of visual impairment.

Villar emphasized that early detection and treatment of vision problems are essential for children’s education, health, and overall future success, and the bill is now pending Senate committee review.

Source: PhilNews24 | March 1, 2026