BUSINESSMAN Javelin “Javey” Alvarez Lim, president of homegrown LTS Retail Specialists, Incorporated, succumbed to "sudden" death Wednesday, January 11. He was 45.
Under LTS Retail Specialists, Incorporated are New City Commercial Center (NCCC) Supermarket, Choice Mart and HB1 Pharmacy.
NCCC Group of Companies public relations (PR) manager Thea Padua, in a phone interview with SunStar Davao Wednesday, said the family released an official statement.
"It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely demise of Mr. Javey Lim. He passed away January 11, 2017. Let us continue to pray for the family to find strength and courage in this difficult time. Javey will always be remembered with great fondness. His brand of leadership will always be cherished." the statement read
Lim is survived by wife Julie and their two children. He is the eldest among six children of Helen and the late Henry Lim.
His siblings are Lafayette, president of LTS Hardwares, Incorporated, NCCC Cares and chief executive officer of LTS Pinnacle Holdings, Incorporated, Ivy Michelle, president of LTS Department Stores, Incorporated, Sharlene Faye, president of LTS Malls, Incorporated, Ivan Spencer and the late Noreen Gaye.
"Sir Javey was very supportive. He was present in every company event like openings of stores or parties. Dili sya ganahan mag-speech kay pirmi niya ingon dili daw sya ma-speech na tao (He does not like to give speeches always saying that he is not that type of person)," Padua said.
Padua said last December was the first time the NCCC Group of Companies held a Christmas party together while in previous years the parties were held by business unit.
NCCC Supermarket PR head Janna Mutalib, for her part, said: "He is a very inspiring leader who genuinely cares and strives to spread love and positivity."
She said they will miss Lim's presence and guidance during their company events.
"His passion on giving back to our shoppers will always be a priority. He inspires us to give out the best in everything we do and become more passionate and determined," Mutalib said.
NCCC Mall Davao B3 supervisor Anton Venculado, Jr. also said that Javey, whom he describes as a "leader by example" will be missed.
"He sees employees as integral part of the organization. I always look forward to every thought of his message. For surely no matter how short it is, there is always something for us employees," Venculado said.
Choice Mart Centro Maa Branch supervisor Elmabeth Israel Estandarte said that their Sir Javey was a hands-on boss, approachable and very accommodating.
"To his employees, he was very generous. He always thinks what's good para sa mga empleyado like benefits. He is also firm and determined with company policies," Estandarte added.