Since I was a young man, I have had a love of Filipino martial arts and have admired the standard of the professional boxing in the Philippines. In addition to this, I have had a love of the culture and the people that I have come across who have enriched my life.

In 1993, I met Noel Tibay in Cebu City, the Philippines. Noel was a former professional boxer. Throughout my stay, Noel taught me boxing. During this time, he and I became inseparable. We formed a close friendship, and shared a deep connection. One day, Noel was unable to attend training with me as he had to sell gold on Colon Street. Upon visiting him there, I caught a first glimpse of his entrepreneurial spirit. Noel often discussed how hard life could be in the Philippines. It was disheartening to see him work so hard with little reward. I decided to visit the Doce Pares headquarters in Banilad. Whilst here, I formed a friendship with Supreme Grand Master Dionisio “Diony” Canete, and practice the art of Eskrima. During my visit to the headquarters, I saw people making sticks. This was a pinnacle moment for me, as it got me thinking about potential business ideas for Noel.

Noel was saddened to see my stay come to an end. He made me a leaving gift – a string pendant that he had carved himself, and two boxing gloves with Eskrima sticks which were hand made. This could have been my eureka moment! I introduced Noel to Diony Canete, and this was the start of TIBAY Philippines. Although I travelled back home to England, Noel and I remained in regular contact despite the distance. Over the years, I visited Noel on five separate occasions, to train and to enjoy his company. Noel started TIBAY Philippines with two members of staff, however this gradually grew in size. I was thrilled to see my friends business making progress. In 1994 I flew back to the Philippines. Whilst there, Noel and I discussed the business in more detail. By this time we had become even closer, with Noel even referring to me as his ‘twin brother.’ I only ever thought about what was best for my friend, I did not want him to overwork himself anymore.

Sadly, Noel passed away at the age of fifty-three. My last visit to see Noel is a moment that I will treasure forever. We knew that it would be the last time that we saw each other. From then on I decided to create a brand called TIBAY Europe to ensure that Noel’s legacy lives on.

I am immensely proud to introduce TIBAY Europe, a unique brand specialising in martial arts and boxing equipment. We are going to create beautifully crafted, traditionally made products, and enjoy establishing a brand-new brand.

Lee Banda

Director

TIBAY Europe Limited

[email protected]

TIBAY – The Spirit Lives On!