Powering a healthier tomorrow

Amherst Parenterals, Inc. (AMPI) marked a moment of transformation with the inauguration of the Solar Roof Panel Project—a 500-kilowatt grid-tie solar installation at the AMPI plant. The ribbon cutting ceremony held on February 6 symbolized a promise fulfilled to our environment, our community, and our future.

With shared pride, Unilab Group leaders—Senior Vice President and Head of Integrated Product Supply Ms. Maria Tessa V. Castro; Operating Vice President and Head of Supply, Strategy Planning and Operations Mr. Jovito U. Santos; and Division Vice President and Head of Philippine Manufacturing Mr. Michael G. Villegas—unveiled the sea of blue panels now crowning the facility. The ceremony was attended by Sta. Rosa, Laguna Mayor Hon. Arlene B. Arcilla and Vice Mayor Hon. Arnold B. Arcillas.

Mayor Arcillas moved the audience by connecting the project to the local spirit of Sikhayan (Sikap at Kabuhayan)—the city’s celebration of hard work and livelihood.

"This moment symbolizes Amherst’s strong commitment to renewable energy," Mayor Arcillas remarked. "True progress happens when we work together toward sustainable development. To Amherst and Unilab, thank you for leading by example. You are showing how the private sector plays a vital role in shaping a greener, more resilient city."

For the employees who keep the plant running day and night, the project brings a renewed sense of purpose to their daily work. Mr. Villegas spoke candidly about the energy-intensive nature of pharmaceutical production. To keep life-saving medicines safe, systems like cleanrooms and purified water processing must operate continuously.

"Today is different," Mr. Villegas reflected. "We are signaling that we are serious about running our operations in a smarter, more future-ready way. Because the sun’s energy is free, we are ensuring that we use it to its fullest potential."

The impact is already tangible. During a trial period in late 2025, the system saved nearly PhP 900,000 in energy costs—savings that strengthen the plant’s long-term competitiveness. More importantly, the system will now provide 20% to 25% of the plant’s monthly electricity requirements.

"Symbolically, we are not just turning on a solar panel system," Mr. Villegas added. "We are turning on a more efficient, responsible, and sustainable way of manufacturing."

The project generates up to 720 megawatt-hours of clean energy and avoids up to 500 tons of carbon emissions annually. While the numbers are impressive, the true heart of the project is the "why" behind it.

Every kilowatt generated by the sun is a step away from fossil fuels and coal. For every employee at AMPI, it means knowing that the quality medicines they produce are now powered in part by clean, renewable energy. It is a tangible reminder that for the Unilab Group, Husay at Malasakit is not just a slogan—it is built into the very roof over their heads.

When the grid was ceremonially switched on, it activated more than just power—it ignited a new chapter. This Solar Roof Panel Project is a blueprint for the future of Unilab, proving that pharmaceutical excellence and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

The project stands as a testament to what the Unilab Group can achieve when innovation meets responsibility. Together, we are not just manufacturing medicine, we are powering a cleaner, healthier, and brighter future for every Filipino.