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A number of bogus optometrists have been arrested in the Philippines province of Iloilo, following an undercover sting operation by local police and prosecutors. The operation had the full backing of the local Board of Optometry in an effort to stamp out the burgeoning practice in the Philippines.

Last April, investigators conducted an inspection of optical clinics in Iloilo to check on optometrists' compliance with professional standards and other requirements imposed by law. The operators of several optometry clinics dispensing glasses admitted they were not licensed and acknowledged the absence of licensed optometrist to service patients and agreed to close the clinic.

All were ordered to shut down operations immediately. Non-optometrists convicted of illegal practice of optometry face a penalty of one to eight years imprisonment or a fine of approximately AUD$250 to $AUD1,000 or both at the discretion of the court.

Also, any licensed optometrist found guilty aiding non-optometrists in illegal practice may be suspended from practice or his license revoked by the PRC in addition to imprisonment and/or fine imposed by law.