Laboratory on Wheels Brings Cutting-Edge Clinical Lab Technology to Mindanao

DAVAO CITY – San Pedro College’s School of Medical Laboratory Science and Public Health hosted the Laboratory on Wheels initiative on October 1-2, 2025, bringing together faculty and students from Medical Laboratory Science schools across Mindanao for hands-on training with automated diagnostic equipment.

Held at the ST Auditorium and PL Laboratory Rooms, the two-day workshop exposed participants to state-of-the-art methods in Diagnostic Microbiology, Clinical Microscopy, Hematology, and Blood Banking.

The program began with pre-laboratory discussions on October 1, featuring expert lecturers across the four clinical laboratory disciplines. Dr. Edel Manahan, Associate Vice Rector for Academic Affairs of UST General Santos, discussed Clinical Microscopy, while Dr. Roberto Manaois, President of SBSI, covered Hematology. Dr. Marx P. Catalan, Associate Dean of the School of Medical Laboratory Science and Public Health, presented on Diagnostic Microbiology, and Mr. Oliver Shane Dumaoal, Director of the School of Health Science of UST General Santos, addressed Blood Banking. These sessions explored how conventional laboratory methods evolved into today’s automated techniques.

Participants then engaged in hands-on workshops with advanced machines and equipment, continuing through the morning of October 2.

Organized in collaboration with the Philippine Association of Schools of Medical Technology (PASMETH), Scientific BioTech Specialist Inc. (SBSI), and The University of the Immaculate Conception’s College of Medical and Biological Sciences, the event concluded with closing ceremonies and the awarding of certificates of participation.

The initiative represents a significant step in advancing laboratory education across Mindanao, equipping healthcare professionals with essential skills in modern diagnostic technology.