Labajo Flores Coffee is featured for his commitment to elevating the value of Manggarai coffee and empowering local farmers in East Nusa Tenggara. After returning to Manggarai, he began roasting and packaging high-quality local coffee, believing that Manggarai beans—despite their excellent taste—had long lacked added value in the market.

Through Labajo Flores Coffee and later Kafe La Bajo Flores, he introduced modern packaging, consistent roasting quality, and broader market access. His efforts helped increase local farmers’ income, strengthened the regional coffee identity, and aligned with the growing tourism momentum in Labuan Bajo.

The article highlights how his initiative transformed Manggarai coffee into a product with stronger branding, better market recognition, and deeper cultural appreciation—showing that local craftsmanship can stand proudly on a national stage.