Vision for a Brighter Future: ACED, Physicians for Peace Philippines provide free eyeglasses to 352 QC public school students

An important factor in literacy initiatives that often goes unnoticed is a student's capacity to see clearly. Vision problems make it tough for students to keep up in school. In response, the Ateneo Center for Educational Development (ACED) and Physicians for Peace Philippines partnered to provide free eyeglasses to 352 public school students at Tandang Sora Elementary School and Bagong Pag-asa Elementary School in Quezon City. 

The Eyeglasses Project, which took place from July to September 2025, offered free vision screenings to 414 students. These screenings were carried out by licensed optometrists from Physicians for Peace Philippines. Following the screenings, a proper assessment was conducted during the dispensing of the eyeglasses. Of the students screened, 352 were provided with eyeglasses.

Students expressed their gratitude after receiving eyeglasses. A kindergarten student was happy to finally wear glasses. The second, a grade 5 student, said they can now enjoy reading, writing, and learning in class. A third beneficiary thanked the Ateneo Center for Educational Development and Physicians for Peace Philippines for providing free eye check-ups and eyeglasses.

On behalf of the parents, Mr Angelo Velarde, SPTA President of Tandang Sora Elementary School, said, “Nagpapasalamat po ako sa lahat ng inyong tulong para sa aming mga anak.” (Thank you for all your help for our children.) 

Indeed, it takes a village to raise a child. Through the collaborative efforts of ACED, Physicians for Peace Philippines, the generous support of an anonymous donor, and the cooperation of school principals Ms Josefina A Almarez of Tandang Sora Elementary School and Ms Shiarell Loida M Cruz of Bagong Pag-asa Elementary School, we are helping children see not only their lessons, but also their dreams and their future with greater clarity.