The Philippine Glaucoma Society and 25 years of Preserving the Gift of Sight

The Philippine Glaucoma Society celebrated its 25 th year anniversary with a
symposium on the first day of the Annual PAO Convention held last November 29 to
December 2, 2022. In keeping with its commitment to provide world-class academic
guidance to its fellow professionals, a wide array of topics was discussed by leading
experts in the field. These included OCT Imaging, judicious use of glaucoma
diagnostics, evolution of anti-glaucoma medications, and the roles of Trabeculectomy
and MIGs. A rapid-fire styled presentation on Angle Closure Glaucoma was also
presented by fellows from UP-PGH, DOH Eye Center, and St. Lukes Medical Center.

The celebration culminated in a lavish gala dinner for its members and guests at the
Waterside Restaurant in Solaire. Everyone came in decked in formal wear, and fully
immersed in the Casino Royale theme. The sumptuous spread was impressive, not to
mention the overflow of drinks from the open bar.

Despite the challenges of the pandemic and face-to-face encounters, everyone was in
high spirits and eager to reconnect with one another. Founding President, Dr. Mario
V. Aquino, joined in via video messaging to express his gratitude for the resilience
and dedication of the members. The induction of new members was presided over by
President Nilo FlorCruz and Dr. Manuel B. Agulto + . A brief photo montage of
moments past took everyone down memory lane.

The evening was enlivened by award-winning host Johann Enriquez, who also served
as auctioneer for the various items up for grabs. There was a sense of friendly
competition in the air as the members tried to outbid one another for their favorite
gadgets, appliances, and exquisite dinners. Excitement grew to a crescendo when the
raffling of prizes ensued. The much sought-after grand prize, a Macbook Air, fell
effortlessly into the hands of a fortunate inductee. The night pressed on tirelessly as
everyone pitched in on the live singing and merry-making. It was truly an occasion
worth remembering.

The past 25 years have seen the Philippine Glaucoma Society grew and evolved from
its humble beginnings into a formidable subspecialty society, steadfast in its mission
and vision that no Filipino shall go blind from glaucoma. And we pledge to carry on
with this endeavor in the years to come.

As of posting, Dr. Manuel Agulto has passed last December 2023. He will be missed.