Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) marked a significant milestone in diagnostic medicine with the inauguration of the Aperio GT 180 DX Digital Pathology Solution, making MakatiMed the first hospital in Southeast Asia to acquire the advanced system.
The inauguration brought together MakatiMed leaders, pathologists, laboratory professionals, physicians, and representatives from Leica Biosystems to celebrate the hospital’s continued investment in technology and precision medicine.
In his opening remarks, Agripino Beng A. Javier, MD, Director of Medical Services, underscored the importance of timely diagnosis. “In healthcare, we often say time is of the essence. For a patient waiting for a diagnosis, every second counts.” He described the acquisition as a pivotal milestone in MakatiMed’s commitment to precision medicine and modern diagnostics.
The Aperio GT 180 DX enables the rapid digitization of pathology slides, transforming tissue samples into high-resolution digital images that can be reviewed, shared, and analyzed electronically. This allows pathologists to work more efficiently while facilitating collaboration and expert consultations regardless of location.
During his keynote message, Bob Blalock, Vice President and General Manager, APAC of Leica Biosystems, highlighted the growing complexity of cancer diagnosis, increasing demand for precision medicine, and shortage of skilled pathologists worldwide. He noted that digital pathology provides the foundation for computational pathology and AI, supporting faster, more consistent, and precise diagnostic insights.
Redante D. Mendoza, MD, FPSP, Chairperson of the Department of Pathology and Laboratories, emphasized that the technology will strengthen the department’s ability to handle complex cases and facilitate consultations with specialists who may not be physically present at MakatiMed.
Meanwhile, Regina T. Edusma-Dy, MD, Head of Ambulatory Services, highlighted how digital pathology can enhance workflow and patient care by improving image visualization, accelerating consultations, and reducing the need to physically transport glass slides for expert review.
In his closing remarks, Arnold C. Ocampo, CPA, MMHoA, Chief Financial Officer and Interim Co-President & CEO of Makati Medical Center, recognized the Department of Pathology and Laboratories for championing the innovation and carefully evaluating the technology.
“Through this innovation of moving from glass to digital platforms, we are embracing a future where diagnostics becomes even more precise, where collaboration becomes even more seamless, and patient care becomes even more responsive,” Ocampo said.
The inauguration of the Aperio GT 180 DX reinforces MakatiMed’s commitment to advancing healthcare through innovation and technology, strengthening its digital pathology capabilities and supporting faster, more connected diagnostic care for its patients.
