Authorities arrested seven individuals, including a licensed optometrist, in an entrapment operation at the barangay hall in San Rafael, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur for conducting an eye mission even without a permit.

The group was supposed to get permits from the local government and the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists (IPAO).

During the operation, authorities seized eyeglass frames and eye checkup equipment. Several patients were present at that time and authorities said they were allegedly being offered items that were overpriced. 

IPAO Camarines Sur Chapter has filed a complaint against the group.

Dr. Bergitta Rosari, OD, President of IPAO Camarines Sur Chapter, said there may be risks in unauthorized optical missions, such as incorrect prescriptions and potential eye diseases like glaucoma and cataracts.

"May risk po, [pwedeng] maduduling [o] pwede magkakaroon ng maling grado, pwede sila [na] tataas lalo. Pinaka worst is magkakaroon ng disease [kagaya ng] glaucoma, yan yung mga cataract... yan yung mga iniingatan natin," Rosari said.

The individuals arrested are currently under the custody of the Lagonoy Philippine National Police (PNP). They denied the allegations against them.

They are facing charges for violating section 32 of RA 8050 or the Revised Optometry Law of 1995.

Authorities reminded the public to seek services only from legitimate clinics and to ensure that the necessary requirements, such as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certificates and expert licenses, are complied with, so they will not compromise their health.