Finding Affordable Prescription Glasses in the Philippines: My Personal Guide

Like many Filipinos, I need prescription glasses to see clearly. But finding affordable and reliable options can be a real challenge. I've gone through my fair share of trial and error, so I wanted to share my experiences and tips for getting the best value for your money when buying prescription glasses in the Philippines.

My Quest for the Perfect Pair

I remember my first experience. I needed new glasses, and I was drawn to the fancy displays at a mall optical shop. While the frames were stylish, the overall cost was surprisingly high. It made me wonder if there were more budget-friendly alternatives without sacrificing quality. I decided to explore different options. I had heard whispers of great deals in Quiapo, so, being adventurous, I decided to take the plunge.

The trip to Quiapo was definitely an experience! It was a bit chaotic, but the sheer number of optical stores was mind-boggling. The prices were noticeably lower than in the malls. My boyfriend and I were able to find frames we liked at a fraction of the cost. However, the hassle of getting there and navigating the crowds made me consider other, more convenient choices for future purchases.

Then came the time I visited a popular chain store. It was conveniently located in a mall near me. The problem? It was always packed! I felt rushed during the eye exam, and I wasn't confident about the accuracy of the prescription. I found a frame I liked, but the whole experience left me feeling overwhelmed and not entirely satisfied. I wanted something more personal and less hectic. It felt like I was just another number.

I also tried a different optical shop in another mall. I had high hopes, but the optometrist didn't even check my eye grade properly! She just borrowed my current lenses. I was so annoyed! Especially because I was ordering spare eyeglasses because I sometimes misplace my current ones (because I cannot clearly see without them, lol!). I knew I needed to find a more reliable place.

My Solutions and Discoveries

Through my experiences, I discovered some key factors to consider when buying prescription glasses. First, the location is important. Is it convenient for you to travel there? Second, the quality of the eye exam is crucial. You need to make sure the optometrist is thorough and accurate. And finally, the price of the frames and lenses should fit your budget.

A friend recommended a shop called Owndays. She said that her prescription hadn't changed in years and that she appreciates their customer service. She also shared that they replace the lenses for free if they make a mistake with the prescription. That's a huge plus in my book! Unlike another shop where I ended up paying for new lenses because they got my prescription wrong. The peace of mind knowing they stand by their work is a big deal.

Recently, I was looking for a stylish yet affordable frame online and I stumbled upon Cinily. I found a pair of prescription glasses that I really liked: Glasses Frame Optical Prescription Eyeglasses for Men and Women Plastic Rx-ble Eyewear Plastic Fashion Stylish Eyewear Frame Light Blue. I was drawn to its modern design. Cinily seems to offer a good balance of style and affordability, which is exactly what I was looking for. It’s important to note that I haven’t personally tried this specific product yet, but I’m considering ordering it to see if it lives up to my expectations.

My uncle, an optometrist in Quiapo, recommends Acebedo Optical. He emphasizes the importance of getting your eyes checked by a qualified professional. I trust his judgment, so I'll definitely keep that in mind for my next eye exam.

Practical Tips and Recommendations

Based on my experiences, here are some practical tips for finding affordable prescription glasses in the Philippines:

• Explore different options: Don't just stick to the mall optical shops. Consider Quiapo, chain stores, and online retailers.
• Read reviews: Before visiting a store, check online reviews to see what other customers have to say about their experiences.
• Ask for recommendations: Talk to friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations.
• Compare prices: Get quotes from different stores before making a decision.
• Consider online options: Online retailers like Cinily can offer competitive prices and a wide selection of frames.

Things to Consider: Blue Light Lenses

Many optical shops will try to sell you blue light lenses. While they may offer some benefits, they're not always necessary. Do your research and decide if they're worth the extra cost for you. Personally, I haven't found them to be essential. I’d rather invest in a good quality frame and accurate prescription.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Options

Option	Advantages	Disadvantages
Quiapo	Lower prices, wide selection	Hassle to get to, crowded
Mall Optical Shops	Convenient, stylish frames	Higher prices
Chain Stores	Affordable, convenient	Can be crowded, less personalized service
Online Retailers (e.g., Cinily Net)	Competitive prices, wide selection, convenience	Cannot try on frames before buying, need to know your prescription

My Key Takeaways

Finding affordable prescription eyeglasses in the Philippines requires some research and effort. Don't be afraid to explore different options and compare prices. The most important thing is to find a place where you feel comfortable and confident in the quality of the eye exam and the accuracy of your prescription. And remember, style doesn't have to break the bank!

Final Thoughts

I hope my experiences have been helpful. Getting the right glasses shouldn't be a stressful experience. With a little research, you can find affordable and stylish glasses that fit your needs and budget. Happy shopping!