By Tony Agudo | May 8, 2025
This morning, I had the privilege of attending the inauguration of the Pathfinder Genomics Laboratory, located at Unit 7D, Strata 100 Building in Ortigas, Pasig. As someone who’s covered many events in my career, I can honestly say—this one hit different.
Cancer is a word that’s become too familiar in our lives. We all know someone who’s been affected—family, friends, maybe even ourselves. So to witness a breakthrough facility open its doors right here in the Philippines? That felt deeply personal.
A Front-Row Seat to the Future
Walking into the lab, I was greeted by a sense of calm precision. The space was clean, modern, but more than that—it was filled with purpose. I got a firsthand look at the cutting-edge machines that power the genomic testing process. These aren’t just machines; they are instruments of possibility—scanning the DNA of tumors to reveal their secrets and guide doctors toward smarter, targeted treatments.
I couldn’t help but feel moved. This isn’t just science for science’s sake. This is science that’s meant to save lives.
Meeting the People Behind the Mission
A heartfelt thanks goes to Dr. Necy Juat, who welcomed us with such grace and clarity. As part of the Operations team of both Pathfinder Genomics and the mother company, LiNCS (Linked Network for Cancer Services Inc.), she explained how this lab is a critical step in closing the gap between Filipino patients and world-class cancer care.
I also had the pleasure of meeting the incredible team from 4baseCare, Pathfinder’s partner based in India. They came all the way to Manila to show their support—and what struck me most was how aligned we all are in the same advocacy: to make advanced genomic testing more accessible and affordable to those who need it most. Their warmth, humility, and dedication reminded me that innovation doesn’t always wear a lab coat. Sometimes, it wears a smile.
The Power of Collaboration
The room was filled with more than just guests. It was full of champions of change—key members of LiNCS, including some of the country’s top oncologists and researchers. These are people who’ve spent years on the front lines of cancer care, now coming together to deliver a smarter, kinder, and more data-driven way to help patients fight back.
It wasn’t just an inauguration. It was the start of something meaningful.
What I Took Away
As I left the lab, I kept thinking about something I’ve always believed: Science saves lives, but compassion heals them. And what I witnessed today was the perfect fusion of both. A place where personalized medicine isn’t a futuristic dream—it’s now a reality, right here at home.
So here’s to the team at Pathfinder Genomics, LiNCS, and 4baseCare. Thank you for reminding us that personalized care starts with personalized knowledge, and that in the fight against cancer, we are never truly powerless—as long as we have access, empathy, and the will to do better.
To learn more about how genomic testing can make a difference, visit www.lincsconsulting.com
Because sometimes, hope really is written in your DNA.