MANILA, Philippines (Mar 2025) — What does it mean to leave a lasting mark? Sometimes, it’s in the simplest gestures—a comforting touch, a reassuring word, or a quiet sacrifice made out of love. These small acts of care can create ripples, changing lives in ways that may not be immediately visible. This is at the heart of Unilab’s 80th-anniversary celebration: Sa simpleng alaga, malaki ang nagagawa (Through simple care, a big impact is made).
Care is not measured by its size but by its lasting impact. A mother’s gentle hand eases a sick child’s pain. A neighbor’s helping hand lightens a burden. A young man guiding an elderly woman across the street ensures her safety. A teacher’s encouragement fuels a student’s determination. A doctor’s words of reassurance bring hope to a worried patient. A friend’s unexpected call brightens a stressful day. These everyday moments of alaga (care) shape individuals, families, and entire communities.
“For 80 years, Unilab has been committed to ensuring that quality healthcare reaches every Filipino,” said Alexander S. Panlilio, corporate vice president of Unilab. “But beyond medicine, we recognize that true alaga is in the small, everyday acts of care that create ripples of impact. This anniversary is a celebration of the many ways Filipinos show alaga and malasakit (compassion)—from healthcare professionals to parents, teachers, mentors, and even strangers who lend a helping hand.”
Leaving a Mark Through Alaga
Behind every success story are individuals whose alaga helped shape a brighter future.
One such story is that of Dr. Reinerio Prieto, the inspiration behind Unilab’s anniversary film. Dr. Prieto’s first encounter with care was not in a hospital but at home, in the quiet acts of love shown by his mother, a dedicated teacher. She nurtured him and his siblings, guiding him through every challenge.
“My mother was a very strong woman,” Prieto said. “From childhood until I became a doctor, I drew strength from her. And it wasn’t the big gestures that left a mark—it was the little things. A nod of reassurance, a pat on the back, her smile. When I was sick, she cared for me. The food she prepared for me every day. These seemingly small things gave me motivation.”
Dr. Prieto now carries forward the same spirit of alaga through medical missions across the Philippines. He understands that every patient is a son, father, sister, or mother to someone else. Treating them means allowing them to continue caring for their loved ones.
“Visiting different communities is eye-opening,” Prieto said. “You realize the lack of medicine, infrastructure, and healthcare personnel in many areas. That’s why, as doctors, we know the impact our presence makes. I make sure to give my full attention to every patient I meet, explaining their diagnosis and treatment carefully because many are afraid to ask questions. I tell them, ‘Nanay o Tatay, kung may tanong kayo, huwag ho kayong matakot’ (Mom or Dad, if you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask).”
Paying It Forward
Care is not just about receiving—it’s a force that must be passed forward. Sa simpleng alaga, malaki ang nagagawa is more than a reflection of Unilab’s 80-year legacy; it’s a call for every Filipino to take part in creating a better world.
No act of care is too small. A kind word, a helping hand, or simply being there for someone can create ripples that extend far beyond what we imagine. Like Dr. Prieto’s story, every story of alaga matters—it has the power to impact lives, communities, and even future generations.
Watch Unilab’s 80th-anniversary video here: Facebook link.
