I had the opportunity to attend the 6th ASEAN Ophthalmology Society (AOS) Congress in Manila, along with my colleagues from Brunei. Taking place from October 18-20, 2023, this event marked the first in-person AOS Congress since the pandemic began and was organized in conjunction with the Annual Congress of the Philippine Academy of Ophthalmology, featuring also the South Asian Academy of Ophthalmology.

A personal highlight was my invitation to be a panelist at the inaugural Philippines (PiNOY) Young Ophthalmologists’ forum. We had an engaging discussion about work-life balance, a topic that often takes a backseat but is crucial for well-being. The session was not only informative but also a lot of fun, making it one of the memorable parts of the congress.

The event was a comprehensive platform for catching up on advancements in eye health across the ASEAN region. It also celebrated the 10th anniversary of AOS, underscoring the importance of the collaborations and professional relationships we’ve built over the years.

Our Filipino hosts went above and beyond in their hospitality, making the congress a truly memorable experience. A delightful surprise was a gift box of baked goods from Butterboy, a local entrepreneurial success in the ophthalmology community.