The City Health Office of Isabela de Basilan joined the celebration of Sight Saving Month 2026 through a community-based eye health activity held today at the Barangay Sta. Barbara Multi-Purpose Hall.
A total of 88 individuals were assessed for visual acuity using the Snellen Chart, comprising 39 adults and 49 preschoolers. The activity aimed to promote early detection of vision problems and encourage the community to prioritize eye health.
The activity was spearheaded by Ms. Lujie Cruz, City Nurse Coordinator of the Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control Program, together with the dedicated nurses and midwives of RHU 3 – Malamawi.
As highlighted in this year’s Sight Saving Month campaign, everyone is encouraged to practice simple habits for healthier eyes, especially among children:
- Have regular eye check-ups even when there are no complaints.
- Practice proper reading habits by ensuring adequate lighting and maintaining the right distance when reading.
- Limit screen time and follow the 20-20-20 rule—every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Eat nutritious foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, to support healthy eyes.
- Protect the eyes from the sun by using sunglasses with UV protection.
- Be alert to warning signs such as frequent squinting, rubbing the eyes, difficulty seeing, redness, blurred vision, headaches, or sensitivity to light, and seek professional attention when these occur.
A small step today can make a big difference in tomorrow’s vision. Let us protect our eyes, detect problems early, and help build a healthier and brighter future for every Isabelaño.
