The most wonderful time of the year is getting closer, with only a few weeks to go until Christmas, the season of joy, celebration, and new beginnings. We’re talking about gifts under the Christmas tree, golden and crispy lechon, pineapple-glazed ham, and fruit salad —the stars of our holiday tables (which we’ll savor until the New Year)— and the laughter we’ll share with our loved ones, memories to cherish for a lifetime. For some, it’s also a chance to restart and welcome a fresh outlook on life.
‍
It’s the happiest season of all! No wonder our minds are all set on what’s ahead. Hey, who can blame us? These are all wonderful things. But have you ever closed your eyes and imagined missing out on all this just because you haven’t taken care of one of the very first gifts you unwrapped in life? Any guesses? That’s right. It’s your eyes, your precious paired gifts that let you see every smile, every sparkle, and every special moment this season has to offer.

Come to think of it, when was the last time you visited an ophthalmologist for an eye checkup?

If you’re still thinking ‘When?’
Well, that’s your cue.
It’s time to gift yourself an eye retreat today.

And that means more than just getting a new pair of glasses. It means giving your eyes the deep and careful attention they deserve. Because sometimes, even if your vision feels fine, some serious problems can start quietly. Conditions like glaucoma —a disease that damages the optic nerve and diabetic retinopathy — which affects the blood vessels in the retina, can also progress unnoticed until significant vision loss occurs. Both conditions require early detection to prevent complications. Another common cause of impaired vision and the leading cause of vision loss among Filipinos, especially older adults—is cataracts, a clouding of the eye’s lens that gradually blurs sight. While this condition cannot be entirely prevented or reversed, its progression can be slowed with regular monitoring and a healthy lifestyle.
‍
I’m not the Grinch trying to steal your Christmas cheer. I know all this information might sound a little scary but rest easy because a new place has come to LIFE to take care of your eyes. To make sure you can witness all the wonderful moments in full, clear color, the Vision and Eye Health Center, located on the 2nd floor of Makati Life Medical Center, will offer comprehensive services starting December 1, 2025. These include essential eye screenings and disease-based packages focused on the leading causes of vision impairment: cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy. More services for treatment and surgical care will also be available soon, as the eyecare facility will have its own operating room to complete your eyecare journey to clarity. And the best part? All these preventive and rehabilitative eye services are totally free for Makatizens with a Yellow Card. HMOs and insurance coverage may also apply, once validated by your provider.

So, before you start plotting schedules for Christmas parties and holiday catch ups, it is best to prioritize your schedule with your ophthalmologist, a MUST CATCH UP WITH YOUR EYE HEALTH.

To book your appointment, visit Vision and Eye Health Center or contact (02) 8422-6300 or (02) 8888-2020.