Welcome Message
From APVRS President and Secretary-General

Issue 2 – April 2025

Dear Esteemed Colleagues and Friends,

It is with immense pleasure that we invite you to the 18th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS) Congress, to be held in Manila, Philippines, from December 12 - 14, 2025. We are thrilled to host this landmark event for the first time in the Philippines, marking a historic milestone for our society and the region’s vitreo-retinal community.

As ophthalmologists and vitreo-retinal specialists, we deeply value the opportunity to gather in person, fostering collaboration and sharing cutting-edge knowledge with peers from the Asia-Pacific and beyond. The APVRS Congress remains a premier platform for exploring the latest advancements in the diagnosis and management of vitreo-retinal conditions, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and exchange. 

We warmly invite our esteemed colleagues from across the globe to join us in Manila for this significant occasion. Beyond the enriching scientific program, attendees will have the chance to experience the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the Philippines, forging lasting professional connections and friendships. 

We also extend a special invitation to our valued industry partners to participate in this momentous congress. APVRS 2025 Manila promises to be an exceptional opportunity for sponsors and exhibitors to showcase their innovations and engage with a dynamic and influential audience. 

It is our privilege to welcome you to the 18th APVRS Congress. We are confident that this event will be a rewarding and inspiring experience for all.

Warmest regards,

Prof Hiroko Terasaki
President, Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS)  

Prof Andrew Chang
Secretary-General, Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS)

Dear Friends and Colleagues, 

It is my great pleasure to invite you to attend the 18th APVRS Congress in conjunction with the 2025 Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology Annual Congress to be held in Manila from December 11-14, 2025. 

We are truly honored that Manila has been given the opportunity to host the APVRS Congress, a premiere ophthalmic event in the region. Themed Retina 360: Learning, Application, Transformation, Synergy, the meeting gathers a distinguished international faculty of specialists in vitreo-retina to share their expertise and experience. This 4-day event will also feature lectures on the different subspecialties as part of the PAO Annual Congress.

The Congress offers a valuable opportunity for colleagues to connect, network, and collaborate. As in previous years, the fellowship night promises to be a memorable event. 

I look forward to welcoming you to this wonderful meeting in Manila. It will be a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, learn together, and embrace innovative technologies to elevate Philippine Ophthalmology. 

See you in Manila!  

Mary Ellen A. Sy, MD
President, Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology

Dear Esteemed Colleagues, Honored Guests,
and Fellow Vitreoretinal Specialists,  

It is with immense pleasure that I welcome you to the 18th Asia-Pacific Vitreo-retina Society (APVRS) Congress, hosted by the Vitreoretina Society of the Philippines in the vibrant city of Manila. This gathering represents a milestone in our collective pursuit of advancing vitreoretinal care across the Asia-Pacific region. 

As we convene here, we celebrate not only the latest scientific breakthroughs and innovations in our field but also the enduring spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing that defines our community. The APVRS has been a beacon for vitreoretinal specialists since its inception in 2006, fostering a platform where expertise and experiences are exchanged to enhance patient care. 

This year's congress promises to be an enriching experience, with distinguished international faculty sharing insights on novel surgical techniques, cutting-edge research, and emerging trends in vitreoretinal medicine. It is an honor to host this event in the Philippines, and we look forward to showcasing the warmth and hospitality of our nation. 

Thank you for your participation, and I wish you a productive and enjoyable time at the congress. 

Sincerely,  

Jeffrey C. Lim, MD 
President, Vitreoretina Society of the Philippines

Join us at the 18th APVRS Congress in Manila, December 12 - 14, 2025, and submit your abstract using our new protocol. Visit https://2025.apvrs.org/abstract-submission/ for guidelines.

Accepted presenting authors receive complimentary registration and an award certificate at the Congress Ceremony.  

The 18th APVRS Congress features a dynamic program. Day 0 (December 11) hosts the PAO session, focusing exclusively on general ophthalmology. Days 1 - 3 offer a rich blend of APVRS sessions centered on vitreo-retinal advancements, complemented by general ophthalmology topics. Explore the full program at https://2025.apvrs.org/program-overview/!

Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of the Philippines’ capital, Manila, through its iconic landmarks! From the historic Intramuros, the city’s oldest district featuring stunning Spanish colonial architecture, to Rizal Park—a tribute to national hero José Rizal, who was also an ophthalmologist—each site tells a story of resilience and heritage. 

Don’t miss the impressive San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the National Museum complex, showcasing the country's artistic and cultural treasures. Take a stroll along Manila Bay to experience breathtaking sunsets and visit the bustling markets, including the vibrant Binondo Chinatown—the oldest Chinatown in the world—where you can savor delicious Filipino-Chinese cuisine and explore unique shops. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking adventure, Manila’s landmarks offer something for everyone. All within a short drive from the Congress venue, come explore the heart of the Philippines and create unforgettable memories in this dynamic city!

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