In a significant enforcement action, a farmer operating an optical clinic in Guindulman, Bohol, was successfully arrested under a warrant for violating the Revised Optometry Law of 1995. The arrest occurred at 12:10 AM on Friday, April 17, 2026, in Barangay Tabajan, Guindulman.
Details of the Arrest and Accused
The accused, identified by the alias Ireneo, 55, resides in Purok 5, Barangay Bulawan, Guindulman. The Guindulman Municipal Police Station, led by Police Captain Kentbel Ceasar Parcon, served the warrant of arrest, which was issued by Judge Samuel Amila Biliran, the Executive Judge of RTC Branch 20 in Loay, on April 6, 2026. The warrant allowed for bail set at P48,000 for temporary freedom.
Background of the Optical Clinic Operation
During the investigation, it was revealed that Ireneo had been operating the optical clinic in Guindulman for approximately 20 years. He claimed to have completed an optometry course but admitted to failing the board exam, thus lacking a professional license. Despite this, he continued his business by selling graded eyeglasses and conducting eye examinations for clients, asserting that he had the necessary equipment for such services.
Complaint and Legal Violation
The operation came to light after a competitor filed a complaint against Ireneo, leading to a case being filed for violation of the Revised Optometry Law of 1995. Authorities confirmed that he was practicing optometry without the required license, prompting the legal action and subsequent arrest.
This incident underscores the importance of regulatory compliance in professional fields, particularly in healthcare services like optometry, to ensure public safety and adherence to legal standards.
