CSU ANDREWS, ALUMNI, AND OAP PROVIDE FREE EYEGLASSES TO 96 STUDENTS AND FACULTY

Around ninety-six (96) students and faculty members of Cagayan State University Andrews Campus received free prescription eyeglasses today, November 26, 2025, through a tripartite initiative of CSU Andrews, the CSU Andrews Campus–Tuguegarao City Alumni Association Inc., and the Optometric Association of the Philippines (OAP) – Cagayan Chapter.

“Through this partnership, we are not only repairing visions; we are repairing lives,” said OIC President Arthur G. Ibañez, emphasizing that the program goes beyond providing eyewear, it also eases the academic struggles of students dealing with vision impairments. He expressed hope that similar efforts would continue and be replicated across other CSU campuses.

Dr. Ibañez also acknowledged the essential role of stakeholders in delivering services that advance government goals, particularly those that support students in becoming productive citizens. “The CSU Alumni Association and the Optometric Association are our partners in shaping a university community that serves,” he added.

OAP ophthalmologists, led by chapter president Dr. Jennifer Soriano, were also present during the distribution. Dr. Soriano noted that the initiative not only benefits students but also relieves the burden on parents who find prescription eyewear costly and difficult to afford.

Responding on behalf of the alumni association, Vice President for External Affairs Dr. Lilia M. Tamayo highlighted that the initiative aligns with the university’s commitment to globalization, serving as a concrete example of how CSU continues to strengthen its global orientation.

Meanwhile, Alumni Association President Dr. Nestor C. Ave noted that this free refraction program is not the first of its kind, having also been implemented during the administration of former President Urdujah G. Alvarado. He emphasized the association’s ongoing and selfless collaboration with the university, made possible through the support of generous alumni united in advancing CSU’s vision and meeting national and global standards.