It’s quite common to hear a Filipino proudly express how much they love their hometown province for various reasons. But to become the pride of the province itself, carrying its identity while making a mark abroad, is something truly extraordinary.
Fashion designer Amiel Noble grew up in Lumban, Laguna, known as the “Embroidery Capital of the Philippines,” for a good reason. So, there was no stopping him when he established the family-owned business Noble Creations, which quickly became a source of high-quality Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana dresses. He was focused on stitching his destiny as both an immigrant and an insider within Southern California’s community of artists, fashion experts, and trendsetters.
Those close to Amiel, including myself, who first saw him at the Los Angeles Kids Fashion Show in North Hollywood last year, knew this was coming. It was only a matter of time before he gained widespread recognition. That time has now arrived. He was recently honored with the title “Natatanging Lumbeno” at the Burdang Lumban Festival 2024. Yes, he flew back to his beloved province to be recognized for responsibly and stylishly bringing Lumban craftsmanship to America.
“It’s what I was born to do,” Amiel shared in a Facebook post. “My ultimate goal has always been to advocate for the use of our traditional dress and hand-woven fabric.”
The award was presented by the municipal government, largely due to the efforts of Councilor Roma Tablico, the principal author of the resolution to recognize Amiel.
That’s just half of the story that cements the status of this down-to-earth man, who rightfully deserves recognition for showcasing Filipino culture through his products. This Sunday, the noble Noble heads to The Aloha State as he will be among the honorees at this year’s The Outstanding Filipino Awards (TOFA), to be held at the iconic Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu. He will, of course, be celebrated for his “intricate barong designs.”
Amiel will accept the honor at the 14th edition of TOFA alongside other awardees, including the most famous Filipino gymnast of all time, Carlos Yulo.
“I’m honored to be among such well-respected Filipinos being recognized this year at The Outstanding Filipino Awards,” he said. “I’m bringing with me the pride of being from Lumban, the embroidery capital.”
I attended last year’s TOFA in Los Angeles, where distinguished figures like journalist Jessica Soho and former Vice President Leni Robredo were honored. TOFA is known not only for gathering a stellar group of achievers but also for its charming host, Boy Abunda, whose presence and witty punchlines are always highlights of the ceremony.
Amiel will join the festivities on Sunday, which will feature performances by sibling act 4th Impact and San Francisco’s Parangal Dance Company. I also read that US-based pop diva Tootsie Guevara and Star In A Million finalist Garth Garcia will be performing on the red carpet.
From being a student at Lumban National High School to sharing the limelight with renowned designers like Alexis Monsanto and Michael Cinco, this noble man has truly come a long way.
An event at Amiel’s shop in Artesia, California, on November 4 will launch actor Enchong Dee as the brand ambassador of Noble Creations.
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