EXCLUSIVE: Noey Lopez on legacy, values, and uplifting communities
Celebrating 25 years of impact in the Philippines with the opening of the first Starbucks Community Store
By Rey Ilagan
Starbucks Philippines, in celebration of its 25th year in the market, solidifies its unwavering dedication to uplifting communities with the inauguration of the Abad Santos Tondo Community Store, a pioneering venture in the country. Noey T. Lopez, Starbucks Philippines’ president, marks this as an important milestone for the coffee company.
At the heart of this innovative concept is a strong emphasis on youth education, where a percentage of each purchase directly contributes to scholarships and after-school learning programs. Collaborating with organizations like Young Focus and AHA Learning Center, Starbucks is actively working to empower the younger generation.
Creating safe spaces for the younger generation stands at the core of Starbucks' community engagement. Noey sees Starbucks as more than just a coffee brand; it's a powerful catalyst for uplifting the community.
Reflecting on their journey since Starbucks first opened its doors 25 years ago in Makati, Noey recollects how the presence of Starbucks made the community feel safer, particularly during late hours. The open lights at Starbucks became a symbol of a safe space. This experience fundamentally altered his perspective on how a company can positively contribute to the communities it serves.
When asked about the origins of these values, Noey pays tribute to his late grandfather, Bienvenido Tantoco Sr., who instilled these core values in him and within the company. "First and foremost, he was one of the first ones to encounter Starbucks in Seattle," he explains. "I believe they chose Rustan's as their partner because they recognized shared values with my grandfather."
Noey continues, “Starbucks is exceptionally selective when it comes to choosing partners as it's a company driven by its core values. I've learned vital lessons from my mentors, and my grandfather remains my greatest mentor. Even at 100 years old, he continued to prioritize others over himself."
"It’s his enduring legacy, and we must carry it forward because we are truly blessed. My grandfather came from rags to riches, and we have to give back as well. It's not all about profits. While profits are important, they won’t bring happiness. They are a critical factor, but they are not the key to happiness,” Noey concludes.
