Or why Starbucks chose to partner with the Rustan Group

FAMILY IS FORTUNE The author with Lolo Benny and his girls Stella, Emma, and Krie

I’ve learned two things from observing Lolo Benny on how to live a full and long life. The first is to always show up, always be present, and always be on time. I think that Lolo lives like this because the second thing I’ve learned from him is to think of others before yourself.

Lolo respects and values the people he comes across and he thinks of them before himself. I’ve heard that the key to a long life is the number of meaningful and deep relationships that one has and Lolo has certainly developed many during his lifetime.

Lolo Benny has exemplified and continues to exemplify treating everyone with respect and dignity.

Lolo always makes the effort to be wherever he is invited no matter how inconvenient it is for him. In fact, I think he feels it is a privilege and an honor to be invited and has never considered anything an inconvenience.

Of course, making the effort to look good has always been a sign of Lolo’s respect for himself and for others.

Respect for the people we work with is an ongoing lesson from Lolo. To this day, Starbucks cites this as the reason they chose to partner with the Rustan Group. Lolo Benny has exemplified and continues to exemplify treating everyone with respect and dignity.

These are the keys to Lolo’s long life. Happy Birthday Lolo! You are the best! Love you.

ALWAYS PRESENT With Lolo Benny, his wife, and two daughters

The author is the CEO at Starbucks Philippines and president of Rustan Coffee Corp.

Noey T. Lopez

Coffee Break with Lolo Benny on his 100th birthday