IN the dynamic world of business, having a leader to guide the team is paramount. The term Chief Executive Officer (CEO) bears significant weight and represents substantial responsibilities and a high level of professionalism.
However, for Cynthia R. Maranan, a Registered Medical Technologist and Doctor of Humanities, the acronym CEO takes on a profound and transformative meaning— “Christ Executive Officer.” This perspective has become the cornerstone of the principles behind her leadership as she marks two decades of running her clinic.
“As I mentioned, I’m not really a CEO. What I mean is, CEO stands for Christ Executive Officer, because we should always consider the Lord as our partner in everything—be it in relationships, marriage, in situations like these, in any business, any form, anything,” Maranan told BusinessMirror.
Cynthia is a self-identified Christian entrepreneur and the owner of CRM Clinical Laboratory, Drug Testing Center Medical Clinic, one of the pioneer clinics in the City of Sto. Tomas, Batangas that was established in 2004.
Her journey began in her high school days at Manila Central University (MCU), where she discovered her fascination with the intricacies of the human body while watching “Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko,” a medical show hosted by Rosa Rosal. This propelled her towards a path of science, in particular medical technologies.
“When I was in high school, I realized my passion for science, specifically medical technologies,” she said, “So when I entered college, it became my number one choice.”
After graduating from MCU, Maranan pursued a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology at Far Eastern University (FEU)/ San Juan de Dios College (SJDC). However, financial constraints forced her to temporarily set aside her dream of becoming a doctor. Undeterred, she worked in a clinical laboratory in Valenzuela City, where she encountered mentors who eventually became significant figures in her life.
Her professional journey continued to evolve as Maranan spent 13 years at the Chinese General Hospital (CGH) in Blumentritt. The experience honed her skills, eventually reaching the position of Clinical Supervisor.
During that time, she pursued a master’s degree at the Philippine Women’s University (PWU). However, her pursuit of higher positions and dreams did not end there.
Her journey took an unexpected turn when she moved to the United States with her husband, after passing the state board exam in California. While working and waiting for her credentials, she faced challenges but managed to return to the Philippines for clearance from the CGH. Yet, family priorities led her to stay in the country, where she explored opportunities outside employment.
“Mas nanaig kasi yung puso ko pagiging ina,” she added. [My heart as a mother prevailed]
In Tanauan, Batangas, Maranan initiated providing laboratory services to the community. Her dedication and the extension of affordable services garnered support from local midwives and health workers. Eventually, she expanded her services which led to the establishment of a clinic bearing her initials.
“Yun na lang siguro yung alam kong pwede namin gawing business, dahil nandyan na rin ako sa medical field,” she said. [Perhaps, that’s the only business I could envision, given my background in the medical field]
Reflecting on her journey, Maranan expressed gratitude for the support of her husband as they joined forces to enhance the clinic and contribute to the medical field. But, she went through a lot of hardship especially when her husband died.
FROM REALIZATION TO ACTION
BEYOND working in the hospital, Maranan recounted the inception of her involvement in community outreach that began with a personal realization. This event prompted her to reassess her priorities and led her to discover a deep-seated passion for medical missions. Driven by a desire to provide free healthcare services to those in need, she embarked on a journey to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
“Nag-instill talaga sa isip ko na ang sarap namang tumulong sa kapwa mo,” she said. [Really instilled in my mind how fulfilling it is to help others]
According to Maranan, the initial foray into medical missions came through collaborations with churches and pastors who were focused not only on evangelism but also on addressing the health needs of the community.
She actively offered services such as free sugar monitoring, urinalysis, and blood typing during these missions, emphasizing the importance of catering to both the spiritual and physical aspects of individuals.
As her commitment to community service grew, she became a pioneer member of the Lions Club Santo Tomas chapter and participated in scheduled projects aimed at benefiting the local community. She later joined the Tanauan Medical Society and contributed to their yearly projects that involved exchanging ideas among doctors and providing essential medical services to the elderly in local homes.
“Nakakatuwa kasi sa medical mission. Hindi lang nade-develop yung pagiging kapwang gawa mo, hospitality, pero yung friendship at natututo ka na may nakikilala ka sa isang lugar,” she said. [Medical missions are a delight. It’s not just about cultivating your kindness and hospitality, but also about forming friendships and learning from the people you get to know in a particular place]
Moreover, Maranan shared insights into collaborative efforts with Victory Christian Fellowship and Partners in Christ Ministers In Mission Alliance Inc (PICMMA) and the World Council Excellence Award Ministry (WCEA). These initiatives included real talk and joining missions for youth organizations.
20 YEARS OF SUCCESS: THE ‘SECRET INGREDIENT’
WHEN asked about her “secrets” to a better working environment, Maranan said that “it’s not necessarily a secret in the conventional sense. It’s more about aligning your plans with a higher purpose. In my case, I firmly believe that following the path set by the Lord is important.”
Drawing parallels from biblical teachings, she further explained: “As the Bible says, ‘Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.’ ”
She added: “I can attest to it personally; I’m not bragging, but even if others try when you give your 10 percent, the Lord will give back to you abundantly and overflowing.”
This combination of strategic planning, dedication to service, a focus on continuous improvement, and a collaborative and supportive relationship with her staff, ultimately developed her adherence to leading by Christian ethics.
“Prayer, faith, and genuine connections with staff are crucial,” she said. “Our work is not just about serving me; it’s serving the Lord, and it’s Him who provides us with everything we have.”
Maranan highlighted the importance of faith and building positive relationships with staff and even with their patients, and expressed her commitment to guiding employees facing personal challenges, offering them opportunities for betterment rather than immediate dismissal.
“We consider ourselves a family,” she emphasized, and believes that this familial atmosphere contributes to the long tenures of many staff members in her clinic, with some having served for over a decade.
She also said that their working hours are designed to accommodate personal commitments that acknowledge the challenges staff face in maintaining a work-life balance.
“We’re not just a workplace. We’re a family. I want them to see me not just as the owner but as someone they can consider family,” she said, highlighting the importance of mutual respect and understanding in her clinic.
As she reflects on the 20-year journey of CRM Clinical Laboratory, Maranan acknowledges the blessings of a supportive family, dedicated staff, and a compassionate approach to patient care that has made the clinic’s success truly fulfilling.
“Isa lang yung sinasabi ko, na i-treat natin ang ating pasyente as our family,” she said. [I’m saying only one thing.Let’s treat our patients as our family].
She recognized that when patients enter the clinic, they carry not only physical ailments but also emotional burdens.
With dedication, Maranan has been honored by multiple award-winning organizations that acknowledged her humanitarian efforts and her clinic’s commitment to serving over several decades of service.
However, she emphasized that the ultimate reward comes from serving the Lord and making a positive impact on the community.
“I am humbled by the awards, but the true reward is knowing that we are fulfilling our purpose in God’s plan,” she said.
ADAPTING TO TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS
MEANWHILE, to better improve its services, the clinic ensures compliance with the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and Department of Health requirements. Maranan takes the initiative to cover the costs of seminars necessary for Continuing Professional Units (PCU), a crucial component of license renewal.
She also shed light on how CRM Clinical Laboratory stays abreast with technological innovations by attending seminars, exhibitions, and conventions. This is a regular practice in her clinic to ensure that the clinic integrates the latest technologies into its operations.
During the pandemic, the clinic was prompted to adopt telemedicine that provided online consultations and embraced a Laboratory Information System (LIS) for more
efficient management.
“Fear of change should not hold us back,” she emphasized. “Investing in technology is essential for the progress of our clinic.”
Despite the initial challenges of introducing digital solutions to less tech-savvy staff, the clinic successfully transitioned to a more streamlined and efficient operation, such as updating its equipment and making use of state-of-the-art machines.
For instance, Maranan highlighted advancements in radiology, where digital technology enables faster response times and more reliable results compared to traditional methods.
LEGACY OF COMPASSIONATE CARE
However, she asserted: “Physical care and human touch are irreplaceable. As we move forward, we’ll continue to prioritize compassionate patient care and adapt to technological advancements.”
“Iba pa rin kapag inaalagaan ka, lalo na tayo mga Pilipino, napaka-caring natin kahit nasa ibang bansa,” she said. [It’s different when you’re being taken cared of, especially for us Filipinos. We are very caring, even when we work in other countries]
She emphasized that even with technological progress, the importance of human care remains significant in today’s context.
She expressed a desire to enhance her clinic’s capabilities to meet the growing demand for advanced diagnostic services that align with the changing preferences of patients.
When asked about the potential expansion of CRM Clinical Laboratory, Maranan remained humble, suggesting that it might be a consideration for her children. As she gracefully approached her 60s, she shared her contentment with the fulfilling journey of her 20-year-long business.
Maranan reflected on the joy she found in reaching milestones, not only in her professional life but also in acquiring properties as a result of her dedication and the support she gained from her community.
With a heart full of gratitude, and a woman of faith and a humane life, she declared her love for the Lord and pledged to give back in any way possible to her fellow residents in the City of Sto. Tomas, Batangas.