We are 93 years old," said Richie Brian King, operations manager and grandson of Cu Un Kay, founder of the iconic Filipino processed meat brand, King Sue (pronounced as King Suweh, not King Suh nor King Suwey). 

"We are celebrating this year not only because we are 93 years old, but also because it signifies a new chapter in our culinary journey. We honor the remarkable history and journey of King Sue ham and sausages," shared the 39-year-old King.

Yes, the company, founded in 1930 by the young Cu Un Kay from Fukien, China, has shown resilience, dedication and unwavering commitment since it first established its factory in Caloocan City.

"We began as a humble family running a small processing plant," he continued. My lolo started only with one simple adobe stove and peddled handcrafted hams in Quiapo and Divisoria. Over the years, we have grown into an industry leader delivering quality processed meat throughout Luzon."

As a young man, King's grandfather traveled to Manila, worked for his uncle in old Echague and learned how to cure meats like hams and cold cuts. He eventually put up his own processed meat business and perfected what was to become the company's premier product offering: the Chinese Bone-in Ham. 

What started as a small enterprise was incorporated as King Sue Ham & Sausage Co., Inc. in 1970 by Cu Un Kay's 10 children. The name King Sue came from the founder's last name, Cu, which means King, and Sue from the Fookien term su-weh, meaning small. "My lolo was a small guy," disclosed King.

King Sue has grown into a successful company with steady corporate clients, such as restaurant chains, hotels and resorts, caterers and food cart operators, aside from supermarkets and groceries.

"Our success is a testament to our hard work, the vision of our founders and the loyalty of our customers," said King.