Ben Lim at the Barcode. (Mark Phillip Dales)
He certainly knows how to mix work and pleasure—like a true cocktail. Scion of a highly successful Cebu-based drugstore, Agustin Benedict Benjamin A. Lim, is slowly inching his way out of the shadows of Rose Pharmacy.
This 26-year-old businessman bonded with six friends (Christian Buhisan, Ariel Lua, Jefferson Tan, Christian Yap, Uco Trotin and Jan Melgo) to create Barcode and together they have conquered the city’s bar scene. Barcode celebrated its first anniversary yesterday.
Often mistaken as the actor Coco Martin, Ben was game enough to come as Juan Dela Cruz (a character Coco Martin played in a primetime soap) during the Halloween party of Barcode. One of Cebu’s most elusive bachelors to date, the soft-spoken, mild-mannered and almost mysterious dude spearheaded Barcode’s relief operations for survivors of the Bohol earthquake as well as supertyphoon Yolanda.
Play! took the chance to get to know this looker a little better, and in the spirit of Christmas asked him how he’d celebrate the holiday season differently if he had his way.
What inspired you to come up with Barcode together with a few friends? Tell us of its beginnings.
It all started as a school project for our PBL (Project Based Learning) course, which is a requirement for all students taking business. So six of my friends and I brainstormed and realized that the one thing we had in common was our appreciation for good fun bars. Hence, we decided to open Barcode, with the hashtag #theplacetobe.
Do you ever feel that you live under the huge shadow of your grandparents as the scion of Rose Pharmacy?
Of course, I think that is normal and a huge challenge for me but I have come to realize that I cannot match or surpass their success overnight. It will require me to give my absolute best which I am willing to give one day at a time.
What is your exact position in the family business and tell us something about the work that you do.
As of the moment, I am familiarizing myself with the operations of our plastic manufacturing company, New Trading Enterprises, with the guidance of the present General Manager, Ms. Cora Redulla.
What are some advantages and disadvantages of working in the family business?
Hmmm … I’m still in the company immersion program.
You come from a very conservative family. How did you break the news to them that you were opening a bar?
Yes, I do come from a very conservative family, however they are liberal on what other businesses we decide to open. For them, it’s about the experience and exposure. They are very supportive.
How much of a party boy are you?
You know what they say “work hard, party harder!” Just kidding. Partying and socializing comes with opening a bar or club. It’s part of the job. But I try to do it in moderation.
What is your trademark drink?
I love beer! But when it comes to liquor, I prefer tequila and jaggerbomb. It helps me stay up on weekends to make sure everything is running smoothly.
How do you manage to stay fit?
I am not fit at all. I used to play football and basketball regularly but I stopped. But just recently I’ve started going to the gym. Also, I have no special diet whatsoever. I love food!
Who are your greatest influences growing up?
Of course, my parents. I look up to them and even until now they are a source of inspiration to me. I want to make them proud. I also look up to my older cousin Brian Lim as a type of mentor.
Do you have a dream business of your own?
I love animals! I got some exotic lizards and fish at home and I always joke about opening a shop with my friends one day. It would be awesome to have a zoo!
What’s your relationship status now?
I am single.
What attracts you to a girl?
I like cute girls who I can have a good time with.
A major turn-off?
Girls who are “maarte.” I prefer girls who can go with the flow.
What’s a deal-breaker for you in a relationship?
Like everyone else, loyalty and honesty are very important to me.
Who are your top 3 showbiz crushes?
I find Coleen Garcia very attractive! She has a cute smile. Also, Miranda Kerr. I think everyone knows why. And the timeless beauty of Kate Beckinsale.
Are you comfortable being mistaken frequently as Coco Martin?
Coco who? Hahaha! I don’t know why they even compare me to him. We don’t look anything alike. I don’t mind the comparison though.
Any motto that you have lived by?
I don’t really have a motto but on top of my head, “Life goes on…”
How would you celebrate Christmas this year?
Of course, spend time with my family.
What is your dream present this Christmas and from whom do you wish it to come?
I like to give more than to receive but anything coming from my dad would be great! A nice watch would be great.
If you can play Santa Claus for day, what would you do differently?
I would make Christmas twice a year.