The Sy family : Herbert, Henry Jr., Elizabeth, matriarch Felicidad Tan Sy, Henry Sr., Tessie Sy Coson, Hans and Harley in this undated photo.That’s how Johans Juruena felt when he approached the legendary Henry Sy Sr. to make “mano” when the SM founder visited Shoemart along Carriedo Street in Quiapo, Manila, where his mother, Erlinda, worked as a sales clerk.
Johans did not freeze in awe at the sight of his mother’s boss. He recalls that his mother immediately reminded him to show his respect through pagmamano, the traditional Filipino gesture of respect shown by touching one’s forehead to the back of the older person’s hand for his “blessing.”“N’ung bumisita si Tatang sa Carriedo para i-check yung display and items, nagkataon na nand’un ako. Isa ako sa mapalad na nakapagmano kay Tatang,” Johans recalls. “Nakangiti siya.
“Tatang really was my original mentor. When we opened Mall of Asia back in 2006, he would go to the mall every afternoon at around 3 p.m. and he would then ask his secretary to call me to see him. By the time I got there, he would already have my usual latte waiting for me. He would tell me stories and share some nuggets of wisdom that I still carry up until today.
His next encounter with Tatang took place while he was handling the Men’s Shoes section at the SM Store North EDSA. “Nakita ko siyang bumisita. Supervisor na ako noon sa Men’s Shoes — 1996 or 1997. Yung araw na ‘yun, wala ‘yung manager, naka day-off. Usually, ‘yung una niyang pinupuntahan yung Men’s Shoes. Naka-ready kami lahat,” Johans shared.