Arnis Balite

Man of the Year 2004
Guro Roland Dantes
By Steven K. Dowd
Looking back to when the Spanish dominated the Philippines,
Guro Dantes Spanish grandfather Loreto arrived from Spain, only to
see that the Filipino people were being unjustly ruled and treated.
Seeing this, his response was to join the resistance against the
Spanish, he eventually came to the attention of the Spanish rulers and
culminated in a move to capture and arrest him. This made it to where
he was constantly on the move to elude them, moving from one place
to another.
Realizing his life was in danger should he stay in Manila, his
grandfather fled Manila on a ship whose Captains name was Pintoy.
Adopting the name Pintoy to assist him in eluding the Spanish
authorities, he was constantly on the move from one island to another
to evade capture and he found himself in the southern regions of
Leyte and Mindanao.
Note: There is an island off the coast of Leyte, which is named
Pintuyon Island; this being named after his grandfather for this was is
main refuge from the Spanish.
Being Spanish, he was already familiar with the Spanish methods of fencing,
however due to his involvement with the resistance, he was exposed to the various
approaches his Filipino resistance fighters he led and the Filipinos he came into contact
with.
On a very sad day, while again moving to elude the Spanish, on a boat off the
island of Mindanao, Roland’s grandfather, grandmother and several of his men of the
resistant were transiting in a boat. Pirates attacked the boat, and a fierce battle took place.
Only the one of the men of Roland’s grandfather is noted to be a survivor, and in
accounting the events of the attack elaborated on what happened. He tells a story that
Loreto, the grandfather of Master Dantes, was fighting fiercely against the pirates upon
hearing his wife yelling from the rear; he turned to assist her only to be cut down from
behind.
Two American missionaries took in Roland’s father Climaco Pintoy now an
orphan. Later, he entered the Philippine Military Academy and graduated as an officer of
the Philippine Military. His father's career saw him assigned as Military Provincial
Commanders of the provinces of Cotabato, Davao, Lano, Dipolog and Zamboanga. After
being promoted, Brigadier General Climaco Pintoy became the Military Zone
Commander of the 4th military area, which comprised all the main southern islands
including Mindanao, Jolo, Sulu, Palawan, etc. As Roland grew up in the different areas,
he learned boxing from his father and was shown a little of arnis de mano before his
father passed away. In teaching his son, Brigadier General Pintoy told Roland that what
he was teaching him were techniques for survival and that the Filipinos had their own
effective combat methods. After his father's death, Roland interest in martial arts stayed
with him and he eventually earned black belts in Shotokan and Moo Duk Kwan.
While in college and majoring in PE (physical education), he met Professor Remy
Presas. It was Professor Presas’s program that was one of the first of its kind to be
accepted by the Department of Physical Education to be used as a physical education
subject. With his interest in arnis instantly re-ignited, Roland started training directly
under Professor Remy Presas and went onto become one of his top students and close
friends.
Roland assisted Professor Remy in traveling to the Japan and the US to introduce
modern arnis in the 1970s. When Professor Remy left the Philippines to teach in the US
in the late 1970s, Master Dantes still having a strong desire to learn the art and by this
time since he was a well-known body builder and actor, he was fortunate to be able to
study with several of the grandmasters and masters of different Filipino martial arts.
Always acknowledging these teachers of their skills and knowledge, Master Dantes
believes in giving due credit. From his college days until today, Master Dantes passion
for furthering his understanding of the Filipino martial arts still burns strongly.
Always one to contribute and assist in the preservation and promotion of the
Filipino martial arts, Master Roland Dantes holds the position as Chairman of
International Affairs of Arnis Philippines, and the International Arnis Federation, Arnis
Philippines for those who do not know, are the official governing body recognized by the
Philippine government are in fact the 33rd Member of the Philippine Olympic
Committee. As the Chairman of International Affairs he works not just with
organizations within the Philippines, but also with different countries to promote and
bring unity to the Filipino martial arts.
With the next Southeast Asian Games being held in the Philippines in 2005, a
historic event will take place for Arnis/Kali/Eskrima will be an official event and not
simply a demonstration sport. So this in its self will be a monumental moment and will be
noted in history. This came about not only through the efforts of Arnis Philippines and its
President, Mr. Raymond S. Velayo and all officers and staff. But the many organizations,
grandmasters and masters who have constantly shared their knowledge and have
promoted and worked hard for this to come about. It is hoped that all practitioners of
Filipino martial arts will come to share this most special time when the Filipino arts will
compete showing the art to its fullest tradition, skills, and beauty. Not just as a sport, but
as part of the history of the Philippines which has been continuously handed down from
generation to generation. This has been through such men as Professor Remy A. Presas,
Grandmaster Ben Luna Lema, Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo, Grandmaster Angel
Cabales, Grandmaster Filemon Canete, Grandmaster Filemon Caburany, Grandmaster
Leo Giron, Mangisursuro Mike Inay, Grandmaster Timoteo Maranga, Punong Guro
Edgar Sulite, to mention just a few, for the list goes on and on. It is because due to the
efforts of these great martial artists and the organizations that have promoted the Filipino
martial arts so future generations can benefit.
This came about not only through the efforts of Arnis Philippines and its
President, Mr.Raymond S. Velayo and all officers and staff. But for the many
organizations, grandmasters and masters who have constantly shared their knowledge and
have promoted and worked hard for this to come about. It is hoped that all practitioners
of Filipino martial arts will come to share this most special time when the Filipino arts
will compete showing the art to its fullest tradition, skills, and beauty. Not just as a sport,
but as part of the history of the Philippines which has been continuously handed down
from generation to generation. This has been through such men as Professor Remy A.
Presas, Grandmaster Ben Luna Lema, Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo, Grandmaster
Angel Cabales, Grandmaster Filemon Canete, Grandmaster Filemon Caburany,
Grandmaster Leo Giron, Mangisursuro
Mike Inay, Grandmaster Timoteo
Maranga, Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, to
mention just a few, for the list goes on
and on. Due to the efforts of these great
martial artists and the organizations that
have promoted the Filipino martial arts
so future generations can benefit.
An arnis master in his own right,
Guro Roland Dantes has studied under
and exchanged ideas with a vast who’s
who in the world of Filipino martial
arts, and has promoted the art of Arnis
Guro Roland Dantes with the late Grandmaster
continuously throughout the world.
Ben Lema of Lightning Scientific Arnis."
Additionally, he has promoted the art of
arnis continuously throughout the world
Photo from the private collection of Taga Turo
since the 1970s. Awarded a 7th degree
David Foggie
Black Belt in Arnis de Mano in 1977 by
the late Grandmaster Remy Presas of
Modern Arnis, he was later promoted to the rank of 8th degree black belt prior to
Professor Remy passing away. Guro Dantes has also studied with some of the most
recognized Filipino martial artists such as: Grandmaster Ben Lima - Lightning Scientific
Arnis, Grandmaster Johnny F. Chiuten, Grandmaster Filemon Caburnay - Lapunti Arnis
de Abaniko, Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo (Ilustrisimo system/Kali Ilustrisimo),
Grandmaster Jose Mena (Mena Style/Doblette Rapilon), Grandmaster Dr. Guillermo
Lengson (Kafephil / Arfephil/ Sagasa), Grandmaster Ciriaco “Cucoy” Canete - Doce
Pares, Grandmaster Porfirio Lanada - Lanada Arnis, Grandmaster Edgar Sulite - De
Campo, Caballero style / Lameco, Grandmaster Jose Villasin - Balintawak, Grandmaster
Johnny Chiuten - Combined Open style, Grandmaster Chris Ricketts - Bakbakan,
Grandmaster Leo Gaje (Pekiti Tirsia), to name just a few.
Facing the opponent David Foggie
has a bolo.
David executes a backhanded
strike. Guro Dantes with the right
hand executes a palm heel block
and with the right hand a strike to
the arm above the elbow.
Guro Dantes executes a stomping kick to the
opponents’ knee.
Continuing, Guro Dantes grabs
the wrist and twists down and
inward.
Forcing the opponent down Guro Dantes
continues to twist the opponents’ wrist
disarming the opponent.
Guro Roland Dantes with a seminar group in Germany.
Man of the Year
2005
Grandmaster Vicente "Vic" Sanchez
By Steven K. Dowd
Through the years Grandmaster Vicente Sanchez has learned and
mastered such Filipino martial arts as Cinco Teros, Kasilagan, Modern
Arnis and lastly, Serrada, Cadenilla, y espada y daga (Lightning
Scientific Arnis International).
At the age of 17 years old in Pangasinan, Vicente Sanchez
commenced his training in the Filipino martial arts with Cinco Teros.
Being a body builder and with his good looks, it seemed that others
would challenge him to test if his character was as good as his
appearance. Needing to defend himself his father finding out that this
was happening to his son arranged through a co-workers brother to teach his son some selfdefense. What happened is that Vicente Sanchez commenced his training in the art of Cinco
Teros. Vicente found that instead of just learning to defend himself he found a whole new way of
life.
Excelling in his learning he realized the benefits of Arnis and the spirituality (anting
anting), it was in just four years that he also commenced his training in Kasilagan adding to his
arsenal of knowledge. Throughout the years Grandmaster Sanchez has continuously added to his
knowledge and has become one of the most respected Filipino martial artists in the Philippines.
A professional stuntman he has been called upon to do various movies throughout the
years. One movie was "Pacific Connection" starring Guro Roland Dantes who introduced him to
Grandmaster Remy Presas. It was suggested to Grandmaster Presas that it would be beneficial to
get with Grandmaster Sanchez and teach him Modern Arnis. Grandmaster Sanchez with his prior
knowledge and skill excelled in his learning and covered one year of instruction in a short period
of 2 weeks. When Grandmaster Presas ventured to the United States, it was Grandmaster Vicente
Sanchez who helped Grandmaster Presas's wife, who carried the Modern Arnis banner in the
Philippines.
During the filming of "Sticks of Death" also starring Guro
Dantes, Vicente met another great Filipino martial artist.
Grandmaster Benjamin Luna Lema of Lightning Scientific Arnis was
known and respected as a great fighter proving his art time and time
again. These two men built up a friendship and great respect for each
other through the years, until the passing of Grandmaster Lema.
To study with Grandmaster Sanchez is exciting and
demanding, and a decision that if made will never be regretted. With
the gracefulness of a dancer, coupled with the flowing movements
like a well-rehearsed stage play, Grandmaster Sanchez through his
instruction will impart upon you and open up and drawing you into a
world of physical and mental inspiration of a true Arnisador.
Now lets not kid ourselves this is not an over night, weekend or even a week of training.
If this is what you are looking for then this is not the man to go to. To study and get a full taste of
Grandmaster Sanchez’s knowledge and experience one must spend 3 to 6 months of dedicated
training.
A student of Grandmaster Sanchez will find patience, yet a demand from the student,
which is given freely of retention and dedication. As the training progresses one can feel the
history and tradition of a true Filipino warrior being taught. Commencing your training with the
knowledge of Modern Arnis and thinking you have obtained a part of the art, Grandmaster
Sanchez opens a door that has several paths of knowledge to his vast experience through the
years. A student soon finds himself addicted and a desire continuously grows for more and more
knowledge, which seems never to be satisfied.
On this magical tour, the student continues to learn Lightning Scientific Arnis (larga
mano and palis palis) Not just as arts within themselves but as a combination and coalition of
extreme knowledge which if serious in learning will make one a formable Arnisador.
In learning one must realize the steps to become a true Arnisador, first starting with the dipa
(long form), then tapado (cut in half) making two sticks becoming sinawali. Cut again becomes
espada y daga; take away the Daga forming solo baston and that moving to mano mano. All this
equals the complete Arnisador.
One must also understand that there is no
quick way to gain this knowledge. There must be
the interest, coupled with dedication, and the time to
put forth to obtain the true essence of the teachings.
The student must commence with the thought of
learning the art to fight, for it has been handed
down through history as a way of life, and as a way
of self-preservation in the face of confrontations.
When teaching Grandmaster
Vicente Sanchez hides nothing and shares
all his knowledge he has acquired. This
maybe hard to believe, but his belief is that
by giving his students his knowledge, then once he has passed on, his knowledge will
continue throughout time and nothing will be lost.
So if planning to go to the Philippines it is well worth the effort to visit with Grandmaster
Vicente Sanchez and if going to be there for an extended time it is most beneficial to seek his
teachings and train.
School of the Year 2005
Kali Academy of Martial Arts
"Falling down doesn't, make you a failure, but staying down does."
By Steven K. Dowd
Each year on Canada Day (July 1) various ethnic groups of
the Red Deer Cultural Society, offer songs, music, folk dances,
martial arts and ethnic foods as a form of entertainment to
celebrate Canada’s birthday. Sonny Padilla observed how the
Japanese perform their drums and karate while the Chinese
demonstrate their Kung fu. Having a background in Karate and
Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) and as an officer of the Philippine
Canadian Association, he proposed to the association that a Kali
demonstration could be presented for the Philippine cultural dance presentation. Once the
proposal was approved, Sonny contacted a friend, Punong Guro Dan Rutano of the
Canadian Kali Association a well know practitioner of Estokada Kali and they formed the
first demonstration team and performed on July 1, 1996.
The success of this event prompted Sonny to explore the idea of setting up a Kali
school in Red Deer. He canvassed the membership of the association and there seemed to
be a demand. However, having a full time job, on shift work and on occasion having to
travel to other locations presented a dilemma. In order to overcome this problem, Sonny
thought of bringing in a master from the Philippines.
In February 1997 Sonny
Padilla went to Manila in search of a
qualified master. First, he went to the
grandstand in Luneta Park, a former
headquarter and gym of the Karate
Federation and Arnis Federation of
the Philippines where he used to train
under Doctor Guillermo Lengson. To
his surprise his old group was no
longer in existence. It was then that
Kali Academy Class
Sonny remembered another group in
Luneta where they used to watch after his groups training. Lucky enough Sonny met
Grandmaster Tatang Antonio Ilustrisimo and Grandmaster Jose Mena.
When Sonny told Grandmaster Ilustrisimo that his desire was to bring one of the\
Masters of Ilustrisimo Kali to Canada to teach his system, Grandmaster Ilustrisimo
reaction was why should he have his style taught to the outside world? Showing the
techniques that had kept him alive? Sonny countered by saying to share, to preserve the
system, and spread the art.
But in doing this Grandmaster Ilustrisimo said, other styles, once they know our
system, will be able to make a defense against our techniques. Sonny explained to Tatang
that he agreed with him but for every counter there is also another counter. After
convincing Grandmaster Ilustrisimo, he introduced Sonny to his master students like Mr.
Pedro Reyes, Romy Macapagal, Robert Morales, Norman Suanico, Ernie Talag and
others.
Of all the people that Grandmaster Ilustrisimo introduced him to, whom do you
recommend first? He asked Tatang. Tatang reply was Norman Suanico. Norman was his
personal secretary and had lived with him for 10 years and had taken care of him.
So, in 1997 Sonny started the groundwork to bring Norman to Canada and by
December 1999 was lucky enough to bring Master Norman Suanico to Red Deer,
Canada.
What the Kali Academy of Martial Arts Teaches:
The school teaches authentic Kali Ilustrisimo based on Tatangs principles and
techniques. The typical schedules includes: Kali, Karate and Dumog on Monday and
Wednesday’s, pure Kali on Tuesday and Thursdays and Joint Lock Manipulation
techniques for self defense on Fridays.
The school has a structured program where a beginner starts with basic Level 1
techniques of single stick increasing to more advance techniques to Level 4. Then the
student goes on to double stick, sword and dagger, knife, long sword (Dos Manos/
Tapado) and manor y manor (Empty Hand).
From the time the Kali Academy of Martial Arts School was started, countless
hours of demonstrations in Karate tournaments, Tae Kwon-Do Tournaments,
Sportsmen’s Shows, public festivities, including the famed Edmonton Klondike Days
have been spent in the promotion of the school and the art of Kali Ilustrisimo.
Seminars across Canada have been given to various martial art schools, to martial
art enthusiast and the Kali Academy has developed a following from Vancouver, Nelson,
Penticton, Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Westband, Calgary, Edmonton, Brooks, Saskatoon,
and also in some parts of the USA.
As a service to the community, the Kali Academy offers and provides free basic
self defense courses to High School and Junior High Students, including organizations
like the Family Services Bureau and other corporations as part of their OSH
(Occupational Safety and Health) programs to create awareness, preventive measures and
basic self defense techniques.
Canada Agricultural
Employees and Family Seminar
Hunting Hill High School
Self Defense Class
School of the Year 2006
By Steven K. Dowd
Kuntaw Palace, U.S. Headquarters of
the International Kuntaw Federation is
locally owned by Alicia L. Kossmann and
family operated by Alicia and her husband
William W. Kossmann as well as assisted and guided by Martial Arts Hall of Fame
Inductee, Grandmaster Carlito A. Lanada (Alicia’s father). Kuntaw is an ancient Filipino
martial art. Its history dates back before the time of Magellan (1300’s).
Kuntaw Palace serves Wilson and its surrounding communities as a one of a
kind leader in authentic martial arts/ self-defense training. Kuntaw creed: “Protect your
enemy from committing a crime, and yourself from getting hurt.” In today’s society
people are becoming more aware of the need for some type of effective self-defense
training. Kuntaw Palace is known through out the world for effective street-defense
tactics.
Kuntaw Palace offers a unique variety of programs at affordable prices
appealing to people of all ethnicities, social standings, and economic
backgrounds. Kuntaw Palace provides a friendly family-oriented atmosphere
while providing a unique feeling of traditional Asian culture.
Owners/Instructors
Lakan Bini Alicia Kossmann
Alicia is a 7th Degree Red-White-Red Belt with over
forty years of experience in the ancient Filipino martial art of
Kuntaw. She is currently the World Directress of the
International Kuntaw Federation (IKF). Alicia also holds the
title of “Lakan Bini”, which literally translated from Filipino
into English means chief (female) over all regional chiefs. As
such, Alicia is currently the highest-ranking female in the
history of the art of Kuntaw and in the history of the IKF.
Alicia is currently the Chief Instructor at Kuntaw Martial
Arts. Alicia graduated from ECPI in Virginia Beach, VA,
earning her degree in Medical Assistant. She currently has
over five years of experience as a Unit Secretary in the
Surgical Department at Wilson Medical Center. Her
secretarial skills have been greatly utilized in managing the day-to-day business of
Kuntaw Palace.
She is a three consecutive year undefeated champion in open international martial
arts competition held in the Philippines. She is a multiple gold medallist of the North
Carolina State Games, and a champion many times over in both local and national
tournaments from Washington, DC to parts of South Carolina.
Lakan Guro Bill Kossmann
William is a 4th Degree Black Belt with over twelve
years of experience in the ancient Filipino martial art of
Kuntaw. He is the current U.S. Director (Patnugot) of the
International Kuntaw Federation. William also holds the title
of “Lakan Guro”, which literally translated into English
means, Regional Chief.
William graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of
Science degree in Business Administration from Barton
College, while working full-time and running a business
(Kuntaw Martial Arts). He also successfully completed the
U.S. Navy’s prestigious Nuclear Power Program, becoming
an electrician in the Navy’s nuclear field. He is a former U.S.
Navy Diver and Submariner (Supervisor of the Dive Division
aboard the U.S.S. Phoenix). He was also qualified as
Shutdown Reactor Operator of the ship’s nuclear reactor.
William’s experience and skills as a supervisor and Head Martial Arts Instructor
play a vital role in the management and day-to-day operation of Kuntaw Palace.
William is also a multiple gold medallist of the North Carolina State Games, and
many times over champion of numerous martial arts competitions from Virginia to South
Carolina.
Briefly About Kuntaw
The Philippines, has had a long, and
hard history with certain aspects of its culture
and values similar to other Asian countries.
Being an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, it
has seen an influx of many different people. Sri
Vishaya was the first empire and was
eventually dominated by the Mahjapahit
Empire that brought in the Muslim faith. Many
people from other countries made the
Philippines their home bringing with them
many new fighting styles, contributing to the
culture and martial way of fighting with both
steel and rattan weapons {kali}, and hand and
Alice with her father
foot fighting {Kuntaw}.
Grandmaster
Carlito Lanada and Bill
No one can be sure exactly how Kuntaw
and Kali originated, but it has proven to be an effective fighting art. Weapons were
predominantly in the kali way with many different swords, spears, and knives in use.
Practitioners not having access to bladed weapons used hard wood or more commonly
rattan, a native vine growing wild in the jungles and hard when dried, whereas in Kuntaw
only hands and feet are used.
Then in 1521, the appearance of Magellan changed the course of history from the
Philippines. The most significant result of Magellan's stopover was the conversion to
Christianity of some Filipino villagers and that he died at the hands of Lapu - Lapu and
his men. Pigafeta, a Spanish historian and chronicler of Magellan’s voyage around the
world recorded this historic event. From Pigafeta's description of the native warriors and
their fighting style, some techniques incorporated into Kuntaw were already in use at that
period in the Philippine history.
In time, the Spanish came in force and eventually conquered the Philippines. The
principal law put down by the Spaniards was the total ban on carrying weapons and the
practice of martial arts.
The practice of Kuntaw was kept alive primarily in the southern Philippines until
finally, following the ban and turmoil of the Spanish occupation, a man called Yuyong
Henyo left Mindanao and moved to Luzon, the largest island in the north. Yuyo's last
name Lanyada was changed to Lanada per Spanish decree of having a Spanish surname.
This decree was called the Decree of Cognomen (1849). That decree included the
governador cillos (governor general) order that any Katutubo (native Filipino) caught
involved or law would punish training in Kuntaw/ Kali.
Man of the Year 2007
Grandmaster Rene Tongson
Abaniko Tres Puntas
By Steven K. Dowd
Grandmaster Rene R. Tongson took his
first Arnis lesson at age nine (9) in Hinigaran,
Negros Occidental - the hometown of Professor
Remy Presas, using sugarcane instead of the
rattan stick which was scarce then. His Modern
Arnis training started at the age of 15 with
Grandmaster Roberto Presas. From Grandmaster
Mateo D. Estolloso of Antique, Panay Island, he
refined his classical techniques such as Banda-yBanda, Rompida, Doblada, Hirada Batangueña,
Espada-y- Daga, Palis-palis and many more.
Under Grandmaster Ernesto, he mastered the
techniques of Filipino weaponry. Grandmaster
Rene R. Tongson, 50 years old, is one of the two
most senior Masters of the International Modern
Arnis Federation - Philippines (IMAFP) under
the Professor Remy Presas Clan. He is also a
member of the Council of Masters of Modern
Arnis, and Co-Founder-convener of Worldwide
Brotherhood of Modern Arnis (WBMA).
Using his high academic and administrative
experience, he spearheaded the organization of Arnis
Philippines (ARPI) as its 1st Secretary General in
September 1986 under the Philippines Olympic
Committee (POC). In 1988 he drafted and authored the
original version of the Philippine National Standard for
the conduct and practice of Arnis in competitive sport,
the standard rules now being used in Arnis Tournaments
worldwide. He has traveled worldwide were he has
strong followings in Australia, Europe, USA and one of
the most respected masters in the Philippines.
Grandmaster Tongson is known for his unique Abaniko
Tres Puntas style and form in classical Arnis. (Abaniko
Tres Puntas is a unique Philippine Classical Arnis
System with intricacies of a traditional weapon oriented
and close quarter technique applicable in knife, ManoMano and empty hand combat. The combination of
Sanga-Patama and Sungkiti execution makes a deadly form of Hawi-Tapi and Traps by
the late Grandmaster Mateo D. Estolloso of Antique, Philippines). Among his top
students are Senior Master Bambit Dulay, Senior Master Dieter Knuttel (Germany)
Master Nino Pila and Chris Traish (Australia) and leading Arnis gurus in the Philippines
and worldwide.
Grandmaster Tongson graduated in college with a Degree of Bachelor of Science
in Industrial Engineering (BSIE) and a Degree of Master in Business Administration
(MBA) in 1987. Since then he has held executive positions in Philippine business
companies. He is presently a Director of the National Coffee Development Board Philippines and elected Municipal Councilor of Amadeo, Cavite-Philippines. He was the
point man in the preparations for the 3rd World Festival which was held in the
Philippines in July 2006.
Grandmaster Tongson holds the following distinction and rank:
• Grandmaster of ABANIKO TRES PUNTAS
• Lakan 8 (8th degree Black Belt) - Modern Arnis
• Kendo (4th Dan)
• Member - World Head of Family Sokeship Council
• Awardee - Grandmaster of the year 2006: International
Martial Arts “Hall of Fame”
• Author of ABANIKO-TRES PUNTAS Instructional DVD
• Trustee, International Modern Arnis Federation- Philippines
(IMAFP)
Woman of the Year 2007
Senior Guro Ginalyn J. Relos
Modern Arnis
By Steven K. Dowd
Senior Guro Ginalyn Relos is a native Visayan, she was
born and raised in Barrio Nagustan, town of Nabas and province
of Aklan in Panay Island. She started learning Martial Arts
(Arnis) when she was in her first year of college, in Manila.
When she was a young girl, she used to play with the boys
using fighting movements she saw when she watched Jackie
Chan movies. From that, her wish and aim was to learn that
beautiful art she had seen in movies and to show people that a
woman could do it also. In her mind, men are not all the time
superior to women.
So when she went to Manila and started to study her
courses in college, she use to look for some kind of physical
fitness class and would hope to find a karate class, “not familiar
with Filipino Martial Arts-Arnis.” Senior Guro Relos thought that it could be a stepping
stone, or maybe a starter for learning karate, so she enrolled in an Arnis class, never
thinking that it will be the start and it would be a continuous love for the Filipino martial
art.
The only style that Senior Guro Relos ever learned was Modern Arnis from her
senior instructors in the College Arnis club, which was thru Senior Master Bambit
Dulay's supervision, and until she was able to directly train with Senior Master Dulay and
has continued up to this date.
Senior Guro Ginalyn Relos favorite aspect about Modern Arnis is the way of
learning and teaching... the openness of the art.
Senior Guro Relos thoughts on women in the Filipino martial arts are that not all
men are capable of doing the martial arts. Women are capable of doing the martial arts
with grace, a flowing smoothness, and form that some men cannot accomplish.
For the future my only thought is to accomplish my training to the best of my
ability and looking to the future of the IMAFP as an outstanding Federation that supports
all groups doing their art even if it is not modern arnis for a strong Filipino Martial Arts
Brotherhood. Everybody must be happy.
Senior Guro Ginalyn Relos is the Secretary for the International
Modern Arnis Federation - Philippines, and continuously sends
information to up date the IMAFP website with the latest news. She
has supported, taught and has been overall in charge of various
programs for the IMAFP.
School of the Year 2007
Kuntaw ng Pilipinas
Aquinas University, Legaspi, Philippines
By Steven K. Dowd
The Aquinas University Kuntaw was established and founded on March 25, 1998
by Michael M. Tuscano, who was a green belt that time, was very much interested to
study martial arts since his childhood.
Michael has been interested in the martial arts since his childhood. He began to
study Kuntaw at the age of 7 years old. However because of the constant practice he
suffered a arm fracture, this caused him to stop for almost 10 years. But since his desire
was strong to know and learn Kuntaw martial arts he enrolled again until such time he
was promoted as a Head Instructor.
From the time he enrolled in the Kuntaw ng Pilipinas he has deeply understood
that martial arts, is for self-defense and a very good physical exercise. He likes most the
way of Kuntaw Martial Arts among other forms of martial arts, because of this he is
encourage and inspired by his mentors to try and start a martial arts association at the
Aquinas University of Legazpi where he is presently studying and working.
His main purpose is to propagate Kuntaw ng Pilipinas showing the youth that
learning a form of martial arts it will build self awareness, responsibility, inner peace and
have them realize using illegal drugs or being in a gang is not a wise decision. What
Michael likes most about the simplest but unique style of Kuntaw in fighting, is the
sweeping and grabbing techniques.
Guro Michael Tuscano is the adviser and head instructor of Aquinas University
Legaspi, Kuntaw up to the present. He also teaches Kuntaw during Sundays at Legaspi
Port Elementary School as their outreach program for the children. He likes to develop
the true essence of a Kuntawista as far as its values and philosophy is concerned. And he
also wants to teach the youth the discipline and respect that they owe themselves and to
others.
In a discussion with Mr. Jesus A. Barizo, who is the Moderator of Student Affairs
and is responsible in coordinating and supervising activities at the University. Mr. Barizo
was looking for a martial arts program that would meet the requirements of the
University, one which would abide by the University’s by-laws, and in coordination with
the laws of the Philippines. That the officers and members of the organization; could
produce a plan of action for each semester that that their program was to be offered.
Also that the program must show how it would be beneficial to the University and
the community, showing good moral character, discipline, while students would still be
responsible for their academic requirements.
Mr. Barizo had for many years observed martial arts organizations come and go
and was skeptic about Kuntaw, but accepted the proposal from Michael Tuscano.
With the help of Mr. Eduard Sarate; an alumni of Kuntaw ng Pilipinas, formulate
a possible plan of action. They gathered all the senior members of Kuntaw ng Pilipinas
and also recruit new members. And with the help of the following persons: Vicente Arias,
Heide Arias, Roberto Ala, Maricel Arquero, Jannette Raña, Jonathan Raña and Master
Leogildo Capistrano, a final decision was made.
His eagerness to propagate Kuntaw martial arts he
immediately wrote a letter to Rev. Fr. Virgilio A. Ojoy,
O.P. the Rector and President of the University, and
through the help of Mr. Jesus Barizo, Moderator for
Student Affairs, the beloved Rector and President approved
the request to established and put a martial arts association
in the University.
On March 25, 1998 Fr. Ojoy, O.P. signed and
approved the letter and Aquinas University Legaspi,
Kuntaw Association was recognized as the University
Based Organization up to this time.
Lakan Guro Michael M. Tuscano
2nd Degree Black Belt, IKF-KNP
Founding Chairman
Adviser and Head Instructor
Lakan Guro Vicente V. Arias
3rd Degree Black Belt
Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw
Head Instructor
Lakan Guro Vicente V. Arias, started to practice
martial arts since 1963 when he is 7 years old And under
Arceneo Arcega he enrolled to practice an Okinawan Style of
martial arts. In the the year 1966 he joined the Black
Mongoose under Luis Bulan. In 1968 he started training in a
style of Kung-Fu for four year. 1973 he joined Aikido under
Domingo Galvez and earned a Black Belt.
In 1991 he enrolled in Kuntaw ng Pilipinas and became an instructor. 2001 he join the
KASAA Arnis and also earned Black Belt. Since he has been with Kuntaw ng Pilipinas, he has
commenced teaching Kuntaw and has established one chapter which is the Ibalon Chapter. And
now he is the Officer in Charge of the Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw.
Lakan Bini Heide Arias
1st Degree Black Bel
Lakan Bini Heide commenced her training in Kuntaw in
1993 at the Bonot Chapter. She was grade 5 when her father,
encouraged her to join Kuntaw.
She likes most to study the forms of Kuntaw. In the
year 2000 she was promoted for the 1st Degree Black Belt. She
competes in different tournaments, martial arts exhibitions and
form competitions. She is now an instructor at Aquinas
University Legaspi, Kuntaw, teaching forms and advance
combative techniques. She is also a member of KASAA Arnis.
Master Dodong Capistrano
Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw
Legaspi Port, Kuntaw
Guro Michael Tuscano
Guro Julysses Belga
Guro Vincente Arias
Guro Julius Belga
Guro Bert Ala
Guro John Rangel
Dayang Siony Capistrano
Guro Romulo Barrameda
Dayang Heidi Arias
Guro Rogelio Desacula
Guro Michael Tuscano with fellow instructors and students, during the Regional Competition
in Iriga City. Winning the Over All Championship.
The Legaspi City Team
Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw Gym
The Legaspi Port Chapter
(Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw’s Mother Chapter)
at Legaspi Port Elementary School
Legaspi City
The Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw and Legaspi Port Chapter
Examination Day
Aquinas University of Legazpi Gym
Master Leogildo “Dodong” Capistrano
Legaspi Port Chapter
Master Dodong started his training in Kuntaw martial arts in 1979, under the late
Master Eduardo Langcauon at Kuntaw Central Gym, Legaspi City. In 1982 he was
promoted Black Belt. He has shown the art of Kuntaw in many exhibitions, and
demonstrations. Participated and has successfully won many tournaments.
He became an assistant instructor at Bagong Bayan Central School in the year
1987. Through hard work and dedication with many hours of training and participation in
tournaments he became the Chief Instructor of the Bonot Chapter in the Year 1990.
When Master Ed Langcauon passed away, the Bonot Chapter also closed.
Master Dodong opened the Legaspi Port
Kuntaw and he began to teach in 1998 until the
present time, and the Chief Instructor of the
Kuntaw Central Gym. In support of Kuntaw
martial arts, Master Dodong extended his
assistance and support to Kyud Michael Tuscano
in opening a chapter of Kuntaw martial arts at
Aquinas University.
In same year the Aquinas University
Legaspi - Kuntaw was born and Master Dodong
is also the Chief Instructor at the University and
Guro Michael Tuscano is the Head Instructor and
Adviser. Grandmaster Carlito A. Lañada, Sr.
promoted Leogildo Capistrano, to Master in
December 2004 in Olongapo City when Kuntaw
celebrated its Anniversary.
Master Dodong
demonstrating a combative techniques.
MESSAGE
On behalf of the Kuntaw ng Pilipinas - Headquarters, We would like to express
our warmest thanks for the support that the Aquinas University of Legazpi, Inc., Rawis,
Legaspi City has extended to us during Tournaments (Local and Regional), practices,
promotions and ranking ceremonies and other inter-chapter activities.
REV. FR. RAMONCLARO G. MENDEZ, O.P.
Rector & President
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
SIR JESUS BARIZO
Moderator for Student Affairs - SDS
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
REV. FR. SENEN R. ECLEO, O.P.
Vice Rector for Finance
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
SIR REYNALDO BOBADILLA
DPESF Director/OIC AQ Gymnasium
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
REV. FR. ALFREDO A. FERNANDEZ, O.P
Asst. Treasurer
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
SIR RAFFY ROQUE
Property Custodian
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
ENGR. VIRGILIO S. PERDIGON, JR.
OIC Vice-Rector for Administration
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
SIR ALVIN PEREZ
Head, MIS-ITC
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
DR. WALTER RANDOLPH JALGALADO
SDS Director
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
ENGR. MICHAEL NICERIO
MIS-ITC – Web Developer
Aquinas University of Legazpi
Rawis, Legaspi City
Organization of the Year 2007
International Modern Arnis Federation - Philippines
- IMAFP –
By Steven K. Dowd
The International Modern Arnis Federation of the
Philippines (IMAFP) is an organization that thrives on the spirit of
tradition. It is the spirit that guides the countless innovations and
techniques that have been developed in modern times, as well as the
many styles that have sprung forth from the genius of many
masters.
The Council of Masters of Modern Arnis is the safe-keeper
of this tradition as well as its guiding spirit. Many of the masters
have been training in Filipino martial arts from childhood. They
have been gifted with the knowledge passed on from generation to
generation. In the olden days, the masters were not adorned with belts or ranks; it was not
necessary. One proved oneself not through promotional exams but in the field of actual
battle or combat. It is this tradition that spurs the IMAFP masters to undertake the task of
strengthening the classical roots of Modern Arnis.
The Council of Masters have several members, but most prominent are the
following, for they are responsible for the fast spread of modern arnis both in the
Philippines and in many countries around the world. These masters have developed
programs, innovated, revealed their specialties in many continents, and returned home to
share their experiences. They are:
- Senior Master Cristino Vasquez
- Senior Master Rene Tongson
- Grandmaster Roberto Presas
- Senior Master Rodel Dagooc
- Senior Master Samuel Dulay
- Master Godofredo Fajardo
It was in 1996 that Attorney Salvador P. Demaisip (a student himself of Modern
Arnis) was approached by several factions of the art and came to realization that a
Federation should be formed to ensure the promulgation and promotion of the art so the
dreams of Grandmaster Presas would become a reality.
These groups wanted Attorney Demaisip to lead the Organization as Chairman.
He accepted the challenge. There was an election of Officers and Board of Directors.
With Attorney Demaisip experiences in management as a management consultant
and being a practicing lawyer the Organization would have a foundation in which, to
work and possibly succeed.
With a foundation the organization commenced to promote the art of Arnis de
Mano, not only in the Philippines, but with a dream of sharing the Filipino art worldwide.
This was also the desire of Grandmaster Presas.
So with the foundation formed, the IMAFP set into motion the fundamentals and
formulated a mission to make Arnis an accepted art first in the Philippines and then
gradually would turn to overseas in the International area.
Chairman - Atty. Salvador P. Demaisip
Officers:
President - Master Noel A. Peñaredondo
Internal Vice President - Guro Renato L. Centro
External Vice President - Master Samuel D. Dulay
Secretary/Treasurer - Guro Ginalyn J. Relos
Auditor - Guro Paulo O. Motita II
Public Relations Officer - Guro Rodolfo N. Poblacion, Jr.
Advisers:
Dr. Alejandro Dagdag DEM
Master Rene Tongson
Councilor Julio Logarta
Atty. Teresita N. Santos
Eng'r. Jose Dion Diaz
Members:
Professor Armando C. Soteco
Senior Master Samuel D. Dulay
Senior Master Cristino Vasquez
Master Noel A. Peñaredondo
Guro Rodolfo T. Poblacion, Jr.
Guro Jimson Dearos
Guro Renato L. Centro
Guro Paulo O. Motita II
Guro Ginalyn J. Relos
Besides the Organizations; Officers and Board of Directors, committees were initiated:
• Membership Committee
• Finance & Administrative Committee
• Special Projects Committee
• Physical Reform Committee (A home committee for the purpose of proposals that
are planned in the Philippines).
At the beginning of each year, objectives are made for the year, with a system of
management objectives.
The first year with this management the results were good. The second year found
even better results, since they were more aggressive in their goals. And even more joined
and franchises were organized such as in Baguio City, Meycauayan, Iloilo, Cebu City,
Bacolod City, Hinigaran, Zamboanga, Davao, and Koronadal.
This was all due to the professional attitude and management, with the invested
time and effort of the organization. The IMAFP through its promotion of the art has
shown that it is a traditional art of the Philippine culture, good physical exercise, and a
simple self defense art.
IMAFP Board Members
Chairman - Attorney Salvador P. Demaisip – to maintain the management of the IMAFP
and the programs of the organization Too strengthen the practice of Arnis de Mano in the
Philippines with an eye towards sharing whatever can be offered with the nation’s
communities.
His future goals are to continue to promulgate the art of Arnis de Mano and
strengthen the organizations membership throughout the Philippines and Internationally.
President - Master Noel A. Peñaredondo - is the president of the Federation since the
Year 2003, he was before a member of the board and when the IMAFP had an election
for the new officers in 2003, he was elected as the new President. Being the president of
the Federation for three years, he has been an active working president, lots of projects in
progress. He focuses on the promotion of the art starting from his hometown, in the Bicol
region by having a demonstration and conducting seminars for the Barangay Tanod.
Being the President, he leads the Working Executives in taking actions for the
continuous propagation of the art. His active participation in organizing the 3rd World
Filipino Martial Arts Festival in July 2006 was one of his goals.
Today, Master Noel Peñaredondo is taking on leave due to his continuous
treatment from being paralyzed. He is now striving and giving all his effort so to be back
in the industry once again.
Internal Vice President - Guro Renato L. Centro - is one of the senior instructors of
Master Bambit Dulay. Being an elected Internal Vice President, he performs
the important responsibility in keeping the federation administratively. He handles the
proper delegation of the responsibilities of the committees, and projects to be taken up for
approval.
External Vice President - Master Samuel D. Dulay - handles the promotion and
negotiations outside the Federation, he performs the technical aspect in promoting the art.
Secretary/Treasurer - Guro Ginalyn J. Relos - as a secretary, her duties are to record
/prepare everything for the proper process of the Federation, remind/suggest her brother
martial artists and the board of the Federation, what should be done and supports the day
to day activity of the Federation in terms of reporting, requests, communications, follow
ups, setting projects, meetings, trainings and others.
As a Treasurer as well, she makes sure that the financial status of the Federation
should maintain expenses so to be able to support all projects and activities.
Her hopes for the future, as secretary, are that everyone in the IMAFP will follow
procedures seriously leading the IMAFP to success... she hopes that when the time comes
that she is no longer the secretary and/or the treasurer. The IMAFP will remain stable and
continuously run smooth with people doing all the work honestly.
Auditor - Guro Paulo O. Motita II - as Auditor of the Federation, Sr. Guro Paulo's
responsibility is to keep an eye on the financial rotation of the Federation. He coordinates
with the treasurer in terms of the auditing of the financial report submitted by the
secretary.
Public Relations Officer - Guro Rodolfo N. Poblacion, Jr. - communicates with the
group and others to delegate the day to day activities of the Federation. He is the one in
charge of communicating the invitations, promotions of the projects/events to be
organized.
Through the collective ideas, skills of the officers within the group, the IMAFPhilippines six(6) years of existence is now taking a higher step in the Filipino Martial
Arts community with its outstanding performance in organizing various events such as:
Various Sports Arnis Tournament, Law Enforcers Training Programs, Kids Training
Programs, and the Cultural aspect of the art.
The National Filipino Martial Arts Festival, the 3rd World Filipino Martial Arts
Festival and now continuously making its bigger area of existence by promoting it into
the International area, through the effort of Dayang Edessa Ramos, Master Godo Fajardo
and some direct contact from the previous student of Senior Master Dulay.
The IMAFP Board also continuously propagates the group in accepting affiliation
and working on the establishment of different chapters nationwide, through this, their
mission will be fulfilled in the future and the dream of their dearest Grandmaster Remy
A. Presas, Sr. will come true even he is no longer exists. In the IMAFP hearts his legacy
will continue and someday other Modern Arnis practitioners will agree on what the
IMAFP is working for. The IMAFP hopes that all will join in making Grandmaster
Presas’s dream come true.
Together with other Modern Arnis organizations in the Philippines, this
organization has stepped up to oversee the development of Modern Arnis in the
Philippines, as well as in almost all parts of the world. To date, IMAFP has over 50
Modern Arnis chapters established in the Philippines. IMAFP has also appointed several
Commissioners to form IMAFP chapters in other parts of the world. Most of these
Commissioners were also direct students of Remy Presas, including Edessa Ramos
(Europe), Godofredo Fajardo (Middle East), and Jay de Leon (North America). An
affiliation relationship also exists with the German Modern Arnis group Deutsche Arnis
Verband (DAV) headed by Dieter Knuttel. While most of these instructors operate
independent schools, they look to the grandmasters in the Philippines and IMAFP for
leadership and guidance in matters relating to Modern Arnis.
Since its inception in 2001, it has grown to its current sizeable membership spread
throughout the islands. Here is but a partial list of IMAFP chapters and affiliate clubs in
the Philippines:
Metro Manila: 26 Chapters
Luzon: 3 chapters in Baguio City, 2 in Meycauayan, and 8 in Cavite
Visayas: 6 chapters in Iloilo, 1 in Cebu City, 3 in Bacolod City, 2 in Hinigaran
Mindanao: 3 chapters in Zamboanga, 2 in Davao, 2 in Koronadal
IMAFP Manila Chapter / Metro Manila Commission
President - Atty. Teresita Santos
Vice President - Panchito Victoria
Secretary - Mitzie Secopito
Treasurer - Jeffrey Plotria
IMAFP Cordillera Commission
Commissioner/Executive Director - Lakan/Guro Egon Nile C. Jordan
President - Jerry T. Gapongli
Vice President Internal Affairs - Gregorio Walcien Jr.
Vice President External Affairs - Herman Pelingen
Secretary - Risa K. Ben-at
Treasurer - Adolfo K. Pinas Jr.
Auditor - Marvin C. Makin
Public Relations Officer - Christian C. Sagon
Sports Coordinator - Rodini Buyogan
IMAFP Western Visayas Commission
Commissioner, Panay - Angel E. Briones
Commissioner, Iloilo - Rosauro De Leon
Coordinator, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo - Jun Tanalgo
Coordinator, Oton, Iloilo - Fortunato Hojilla, Jr.
President - Ludovico Losanes
Vice President-Internal - Girlie Tinagan
Vice President-External - Joebert Mayote
Secretary - Jun Tanalgo
Auditor - Lino Baldevarona
Business Manager - Roger Vergara
IMAFP Mindanao Commission
This data does not take into account the huge numbers of Philippine schools,
colleges and universities, which now teach arnis as part of their physical education
curriculum. In Metro Manila, 38 schools/colleges/universities already implement regular
training programs in Modern Arnis, with estimated total of 40,000 students. Several
IMAFP instructors have been sent out to these institutions in order to train local teachers
and develop them into becoming instructors.
In the international arena, IMAFP has chapters in the following countries:
Germany, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Italy, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Korea, Saudi
Arabia, USA, Mexico, and Brazil. IMAFP has 3 international commissions that
coordinate its regional international work, each one headed by a commissioner who is
appointed directly by the Council of Masters in Manila.
International Regional Commissions are:
(Click the abbreviation to learn more about the Chapters)
Europe: Guro Edessa Ramos
MAS - IMAPF Switzerland
FENIK - IMAFP Italy
Middle East: Master Godofredo Fajardo
IMAFP - Middle East
North America: Guro Jay de Leon
IMAFP - North America
NAFMA - IMAFP East Coast USA
IMAFP New Jersey
IMAFP Maryland
AIAAMM - IMAFP Mexico
International Affiliates and Supporters:
Datu Dieter Knüttel - Germany - Deutsche Arnis Verband (DAV)
Master Bram Frank - Florida - Common Sense Self-Defense / Street Combat
(CSSD/SC)
Master Dan Anderson - Oregon - Dan Anderson Karate
Alfredo Rico Acosta - Kuntaw Kali Kruzada / Kruzada Eskrima
Get More Knowledge About IMAFP…
Get to know more about the IMAFP. Click the subject to learn more.
International Modern Arnis Federation Philippines
Recognition of Brotherhood 2007
World Filipino Martial Arts Association
WFMAA
By Steven K. Dowd
The World Filipino Martial Arts Association (WFMAA) was founded in 2003
to promote and propagate the Philippine Martial Arts, the rich Culture and legendary
Traditions of the Philippines. The mission is to develop a unique Filipino martial arts
Brotherhood and Gathering rarely witnessed and experienced by instructors and students
throughout the world. Its annual gathering features Grandmasters, Punong Guros,
Masters and Guros representing a variety of systems and styles of the Filipino Combative
Arts, indigenous to the Philippines.
The annual gathering includes the Masters Seminar Series spanning
both days, followed by an awards banquet in the evening. The festivities
include Philippine cultural performances and martial arts demonstrations by local
schools. On the third day of the event, students from a variety of fighting systems and
styles compete in the WFMAA Laban Laro Tournament. It is a much-anticipated event
where students eagerly await the opportunity to test their skills, knowledge and fighting
prowess against each other.
The annual gathering is a truly historical, legendary and most memorable event.
Masters Seminar Series Friday and Saturday
The featured Expo instructors are either the founder or the top
exponent of their respective systems. In fact, some of the featured instructors are legends
in the Filipino martial arts world community.
Welcome Dinner on Friday
The welcome dinner is an event that gets the instructors and participants together
for a relaxing time. Each instructor is asked to say a few words. You have to be there.
Each says a few words on several different topics, but all agreed that the WFMAA was a
event that brings the Filipino martial arts community together and promotes its
continuous activity for the future.
Awards Banquet on Saturday
The Awards Banquet is truly a Gala Event. With
host Punong Guro Myrlino P. Hufana presiding over the
event.
It starts off with a simple greeting and then on with
the show. The Entertainment is provided by a most
professional group in the area, sometimes Filipino Sayaw,
sometimes by a local martial arts group.
Upon conclusion of the entertainment, instructors
and participants enjoyed a buffet that is always excellent in
all respects.
Then the awards ceremony, in which each instructor
that has participated in the seminars is recognized and
honored. Now with all concluded, it is time to shake a leg, yes let the music begin and
everybody dance into the wee hours of the night.
The Laban Laro Championship on Sunday
The Laban Laro is a tournament that is held each year by the WFMAA as part of
their annual event. It is the testing of skills in combat. With only head and hand gear it is
truly a challenge, even with the slightly padded sticks that are used.
Participants have practiced throughout the year and have attended Punong Guro
Hufana’s seminars, which are designed for the training of this event.
Overall it is truly a test, of speed, endurance, technique, and skill. However the
most important aspect of the tournament is the attitude of sportsmanship and friendship.
2006 WFMAA Exposition
Palace Station Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada
2005 WFMAA Exposition
Coast Anaheim Hotel, Anaheim, California
2004 WFMAA Exposition
The Palms Casino & Resort Hotel, Las Vegas, Nevada
2003 WFMAA Exposition
Embassy Suites Hotel, Bellevue, Washington
Man of the Year 2008
Senior Master Samuel “Bambit” Dulay
By Steven K. Dowd
Senior Master Samuel Bambit Dulay at the
young age started training in Filipino Martial Arts in
Dumog and Judo in 1969 under Roming Yanson and
the Romy Lisondra (both students of Grandmaster
Remy Presas), at the University of Negros
Occidental and West Negros College. He learned the
Baston (basic Arnis) in 1972 while studying karate
jujitsu under Romy Lisondra. For the first time in
1974, he witnessed a bladed weapon demonstration
between Master Roberto Presas and Master Cris
Vasquez, which inspired him to seek an Arnis
Master Romy Lisondra first student
Instructor. Fascinated with Mano-Mano, locks,
of Grandmaster Remy Presas
trapping, and the ground fighting aspects of the art
he continuously would seek new ways to improve his knowledge.
As time went on he transferred to another
school, operated by Mike Vasquez and was
introduced to Shotokan karate. Master Dulay
became a professional full contact fighter and was
very effective in the ring. It was during this time
when a man by the name of Juan Laoan of Lapu
Lapu Arnis visited the Dojo at the Vasquez Martial
Arts School demonstrated the furious and
effectiveness of Arnis de Mano in combat. Guro
Dulay realized that though he was very proficient
in Shotokan, something was lacking inside.
He returned to train with the Lisondra
brothers and found that what he felt was the
heritage and values of his own culture, and that
with the training in Modern Arnis he was
becoming fulfilled inwardly and finding self
gratification and an inner peace.
Master Bambit Dulay
Eventually in 2000, he became the Chief
Headmaster Mike Vasquez
Instructor of the International Modern
Arnis Federation Philippines (IMAFP)
under Grandmaster Remy Presas.
Grandmaster Remy Presas appointed
him as the successor of the art “Tapi
Tapi” of Modern Arnis in the
Philippines. This is due to, when
Master Dulay commenced his training,
the concept of Tapi Tapi so amazed
him that his determination to master
the theory and techniques were overwhelming. Tapi-Tapi is the heart of Master Bambit
techniques, which is "the way of the flow" concept.
Master Samuel “Bambit” Dulay is the External Vice
President for IMAFP with the rank of “Lakan Antas Pito” (7th
Degree). In addition to training under Professor Presas in
Modern Arnis, he holds instructor rankings in Judo, Jujitsu,
Ernesto Presas Arnis, and “Modified Tapado”. Professor Remy
A. Presas asked Allan “Shishir” Inocalla to gather and lead to
unite Modern Arnis practitioner in the Philippines. Allan who
played the role of Michael Angelo in Ninja Turtle the movie
asked help to Master Dulay. It was Masters Dulay and
Godofredo Fajardo endorsed that Professor Remy Presas
entrusted the task of organizing the IMAFP. Master Dulay has
established Modern Arnis chapters in the Philippines and other
parts of the world.
The IMAFP is
considered to be one of the most active
organizations of Modern Arnis in the Philippines.
Also, as one of the authors on the revised IMAFP
Sports Arnis Rules in Competition, Senior Master
Dulay has great concerns on the development of
arnis, as a sport, in the Philippines.
His contribution to the development of arnis
is more on the foundation: the laying down of the
basic rules and regulations as well as on its proper
implementation. I see to it that seminar/workshop
on Sports Arnis Rules of Competition are conducted
professionally; that tournament events be properly
managed; that there are designation of non bias
officials; that proper evaluation of apprentice referees and judges be made; and that top
rank official referees and judges on the final bout be designated.
The IMAFP Council of Masters has the confidence in handling the IMAFP Senior
Guros Instructions. The management of IMAFP organization has already been
institutionalized based on what the Masters of Councils agreed upon. The IMAFP Board
Member must always approve the Program of Instructions before execution. Sensitive
issues, especially technical matters and ethics, are always forwarded to the council of
masters for review. The foundation has already been laid, thanks to all the members of
the organization. I am just doing what is required of me: to make sure that IMAFP’s
programs are well implemented.
Senior Master Dulay is a good follower of the basic rules of arnis: to be always
prepared and to be quick with response no matter what. IMAFP’s programs are yearround and will continue to be as long as we, as followers of the discipline, are willing to
go the extra mile and be prepared.
Thanks to the diligent work of
all the members of IMAFP with the
leadership of Atty. Salvador Demaisip
Chairman/Acting President who lead
us to what we are now, from which I
am a proud member. Modern Arnis
Module is now being taught in all
universities and colleges in the
Philippines and is now being
recognized internationally.
Master Dulay expresses the
importance of being a student of the
Filipino Martial Arts in order to see
Protagonist Jimmy Smith in “Fight Quest” with
the difference between the modern and
Master Bambit student.
the traditional aspects of the Filipino
L-R: Jimson Dearos, Cocoy Oyales, Jeff Plotria,
culture. To understand the values of
and Senior Master Cris Vasquez.
the historical background, along with
the heritage of the Filipino Martial Arts, one should constantly seek out knowledge to
better ones self both physically and mentally. Finding the difference of philosophies in
each art so as to gain an understanding of what is basic essence upon which the art is
built. With this understanding a self-awareness and stability and inner peace will be
established within ones self.
Master Samuel “Bambit” Dulay’s lineage of teachers and styles:
- 1975, Old Maestro Juan Lawaan (age of 72) who also served as his inspiration:
Decuerdas Lapu-Lapu style.
- Maestro Juan Lawaan: Lapu-Lapu Decuerdas style, no belt system.
- Mike Vasquez: Modified Tapado.
- Master Robeto Presas: Modern Arnis: Tabak
Tuyok w/ Arnis Stick and Free Style.
- Master Cristino Vasquez: Ipit Pilipit style.
- Master Rene Tongson: Tres Puntas style.
- Master Ernesto Presas: IPMAF Mano-Mano
and Classical Arnis.
- Grandmaster Remy Presas: Dumog, ManoMano, Classical Arnis (Abaniko, Palis-Palis,
Close Quarter of Balintawak and Ifugao,
Crusada), Dumog/Mano-Mano, and the
Tapi-tapi "the way of the flow" concept.
Senior Master Samuel “Bambit” Dulay is what one would call a Master of Tapi
Tapi, except in his humble way he continuously seeks more and more knowledge and
skill in the movements and techniques, focusing on the use of the cane(s) and related
weapons of the body.
Tapi-Tapi, which means, "counter for counter." The idea is simple: no matter
what your opponent does, be educated and prepared with a counter. When two
practitioners work together, the counters continue back and forth until one partner
"catches" the other.
The intense mental contest that occurs in this type of training (especially when it
is done competitively) creates a dynamic chess-like struggle, with Master Dulay working
hard to outwit his opponent. It requires a sharp mind and a good knowledge of technique,
as well as the precise physical skill and combination of attributes that make the
techniques effective. Additionally, it requires Senior Master Dulay’s ability to follow the
opponent, using whatever energy the opponent gives him to use for his own advantage,
and also to lead his opponent down a certain path, causing the opponent to choose
techniques that he has prepared to counter. These advanced tactics bring efficiency,
making victory closer and his opponents’ margin of error slimmer. All of these factors
also develop a will to survive and a will to succeed despite the situation.
Using the classical theories of Palis system, Abaniko system, and the Krusada system
Senior Master Dulay incorporates and manipulates the movements and theories to excel
in Tapi Tapi.
A dynamic performer, he has performed demos and exhibitions in prestigious events
such as the South East Asian Games in 2003, the 8th Asian Kyokushinkai Tournament,
and the 2nd Filipino Martial Arts Festival in Dortmund, Germany in 2003.
Senior Master Dulay with Senior Guro Ramos doing a demonstration at the 2nd FMA Festival
Master Dulay played a major part in two monumental gathering in the Philippines. He
was a consultant of the 1st National Filipino Martial Arts Festival, the 1st Remy Presas
Memorial Camp and the 3rd World Filipino Martial Arts Festival which took place in
2006. He still continues to teach and inspires young Filipino martial arts instructor to
propagate the arts in a foreign land. Master Dulay is spreading the Filipino arts and
continuing the legacy of Modern Arnis.
Woman of the Year 2008
Bella Marie “Peachie” Baron-Saguin
By Steven K. Dowd
Born in Manila, Philippines and christened Bella Marie Sotto
Baron, her first interest in sword play was at an early age of 10, after
seeing the film Sinbad. As a child she would play with a stick, swing
it and pretend she is a mighty warrior defeating enemies with her
magnificent sword, and with her incredible skills in fighting.
Later in life, she took up Business Administration majoring in
Marketing and Advertising at the University of the East, Manila. She
was a working student then, studying at night and working full time
at day time, as a sectary of the General Manager of a prestigious
Marketing outfit. At the end of each office hours, she would hurriedly leave the office at
the strike of 5pm to go to La Salle, where as an outstanding student of Marketing in UE,
she was sent to La Salle as an exchange student. As a working student, she has little time
to read books, thus her answers in her examinations were purely based on her day to day
experiences in her working environment, interacting with different personalities engaged
in the field of marketing and advertising. Soon she was sitting on top of advertising, and
most of the products she handled were awarded in the Advertising congress as “the
product with the best advertisement”. Her corporate life was marked with distinction as
she consistently became the excellent support of the top management of various firms.
In spite of her busy schedules, she still found the time to engage in different
activities. She is an accomplished swimmer and has passed the one mile open water
swimming final test given by Red Cross every summer for swimmers aspiring to be Life
Guards. She is also a licensed open water diver. But her heart yearns for more. She has
not outgrown her childhood fantasy as a mighty warrior. Soon she joined Hwa Rang Do,
an elite Korean Martial Arts, and then later enrolled in another discipline Jeet Kun Do,
when she felt her training was not enough. When she found the group BAKBAKAN, her
quench for a full combat activity was satisfied. She was accepted in Bakbakan and
became the first lady Black Belt. She owes a debt of gratitude to his mentor and friend,
the Grandmaster of Bakbakan, Christopher Ricketts.
Today, she has resigned from the business world and has devoted her time
promoting the Filipino martial arts. Her goal is for ARNIS to gain recognition not only in
other countries but in her own country as well. She has continuously rallied ARNIS,
wrote articles about it and has promoted the art whenever given the chance. She is the
secretary of the National Filipino Martial Arts association and has organized mall tour for
the different clubs. An arnisador herself and continuously training with the Grandmaster
of Kalis Ilustrisimo Antonio Diego, she not only love the Filipino culture and the art, but
have embraced it as well.
Peachie has had the urge to practice the martial arts since childhood in her own
words this is how she got engrossed in the Filipino martial arts.
Ever since I was a child I have always dreamed of becoming a good martial artist.
I have always imaged myself involved in a fight, fighting and clawing my way to victory,
reigning over my vanquished opponents. This deep ambition burned in me for a long,
long time.
At first, I was just contented with simply fantasizing and using my imagination.
Later on this desire turned into a consuming passion and martial arts became an
obsession. This prompted me to watch and observe martial arts and their champions. All
of the ones I’ve observed had their own unique qualities and superior techniques but none
had the type of “action” I was looking for. My search finally ended when I chanced upon
an old acquaintance who invited me to attend and observe a Korean discipline he was
training in. As I watched with keen eyes, I noticed that it was like a combination of
different martial arts disciplines all rolled into one. I was fascinated and captured by this
martial art and decided to join.
My first day of training was really exciting. For me it was the
realization of my dreams. I was oblivious of the time, of the hard training
and of the rigid discipline. I was in ecstasy. I was always looking forward
to each and every training session. My enthusiasm never waned,
instead it seemed to increase more and more as my stamina and
skills increased. However, a time came when I felt that the art
that I was pursuing was not enough. I needed more and craved
for more. I could not identify what was missing and yet
knew that I was not fulfilled.
I eventually enrolled in another martial art as well,
making sure that the sessions were not in conflict with each other. For a
while this arrangement seemed to fill the gap that nagged at me.
One day I arrived early for my scheduled training session. I could hear commands
being barked at where the Taekwondo classes where usually held. Curiosity got the best
of me since I knew that there were no Taekwondo classes scheduled for that particular
hour. I climbed the stairs and sneaked a peek at whatever was going on.
There before my eyes were two guys fully equipped with head gear, body
protectors, and boxing gloves sparring at full force. Not a single blow was held back.
Kicks and punches were being exchanged with precision and dodged and parried with
grace and speed. I looked and asked myself: What discipline is this? I looked around and
saw the other people in the training hall, men in black with this curious looking logo on
their shirts. I did not see any familiar face. None of them were of the Taekwondo group. I
focused my eyes back at the two combatants. I was mesmerized by the intensity and
seriousness of their training.
I was thrilled and filled with
excitement. Deep within me, my spirit was
shouting “This is it, Peachie. This is what
you’ve been looking for!”
I was to learn later on that I had
eavesdropped in on a Bakbakan training
session. The group present then was Ramon
Tulfo, Miguel Zubiri, Edgar Aristorenas,
Benny Litonjua and trainers Dodong Sta.
Iglesia, Peter Sescon and Torry Seas.
Ramon Tulfo, Bakbakan’s Public Relations
Conducting the classes were Masters
Officer and noted columnist, practices his
Christopher Ricketts and Tony Diego. I
dodging techniques against Peachie’s kicks.
stayed and watched and waited until they
finished their training. From that time on, I always arrived early and took my position at
the stairs to watch, making sure that I was inconspicuous and out of their way. For
several sessions I was content to be at what I now considered my perch, watching and
admiring their training sessions.
One day their Master Christopher Ricketts approached me and gave me a chair to
sit on telling me it was more comfortable than the steps I was sitting on. I realized than
that I was talking to the Topher Ricketts whose name was held in high esteem by most
serious martial artists in the Philippines. Later during that session he would return and
ask me about my interest in the martial arts. I explained to him that I had been taking up
two disciplines of martial arts but have recently dropped one and now concentrated only
on one.
Summoning my courage, I asked him if he could teach me. His answer only made
me admire and respect him more. He said, “I could only help you, but your loyalty should
remain in the discipline you are in right now.” And true to his word, he did help me. He
assigned Dodong Sta. Iglesia to be my trainer. My training suddenly took an abrupt turn;
I was back to the basics. The training was very rigid; I was pushed to the limits. I would
finish each session exhausted but fulfilled. The training was very different. It opened up a
new dimension for me. I then realized that I no longer had any interest in my one other
remaining discipline. All the enthusiasm I had for it was not just waning but gone. The
magic was no longer there. I realized that I would only be disillusioning myself and my
instructors if I continued training with them.
I made my exit gracefully and with their blessing. They realized something
happened to me for my performance improved leaps and bounds since I started training
with Bakbakan. They were happy that I found what I was looking for.
From then on, Master Topher Ricketts and trainer Dodong Sta. Iglesia trained me
on a regular basis. My stances were corrected, my form checked, my punches and kicks
were made more defined. I was taught different styles of offense and defense. I was
trained in unarmed combat as well as in weaponry skills, including sticks and knives. I
was also taught different katas from several disciplines to develop and improve my
intrinsic energy. Because of this intense and rigid training, my skills have improved and
my self-confidence bolstered to the point where sparring sessions have become the norm
rather than the exception.
Looking back, I know and realize that
I have become a different person, a far, far cry
from what I was before. I owe it all to my
teacher, Master Christopher Ricketts, to whom
I have so much faith and reverence. Also to
my trainer Dodong Sta. Iglesia who has been
very patient and understanding. I also owe a
debt of gratitude to the members of Bakbakan
who have been very supportive of me, then the
only female member of Bakbakan, and most of
all to God who answered my fervent prayer
Peachie undergoing focus mitt training
and gave me a good mentor and a solid,
with Chief Instructor Christopher Ricketts
supportive group.
When Master Christopher Ricketts left for the States, I started training with
Master Diego on a regular basis with his Binondo group, the Kalis Ilustrisimo. My
training then took on a leap. I was showed the proper way to hold the blade, not to grip
the handle too tight, to prevent it from being disarmed when struck heavily with another
sword. I was then taught the different kinds and forms of striking and blocking, and the
footwork and stances that goes for each attack and counter attack. I was asked to
repeatedly execute a particular strike before moving on to the next. Master Diego has
always reiterated the importance of a repetitive exercise for one to gain mastery of the
form.
Soon enough Master Diego taught me
how to use the stick and knife at the same
time. This style is called Puntai y Daga. From
this style, my interest grew more and more
and I always look forward to a sword play
with Master Diego, where my speed and
accuracy to block and strike are put to test,
my distance and movements, checked and
corrected. There are moments when Master
Diego would attack me when my guard is
down to find out how I would react. If I
stopped, he would tell me not to think but just
to react, otherwise I get hit. The word “sorry”
is never use in the gym. If you get hit, it’s
your fault.
After considerable drills with a
wooden sword, Master Diego gave me as a
gift, a real sword to practice with. Again my
strikes and counter strikes were checked.
Using the real sword, Master Diego would
ask me to execute the different strikes and
Peachie Baron-Saguin training
counter strikes. The purpose of this exercise,
with Master Tony Diego
he said, is to gain better control of the blade
and to prevent improper techniques from developing, and thus trains the student to hit at
the right angle. My first swordplay using a real sword with Master Diego was really
scary, but then I passed with flying colors.
Suffice it to say, I was taught not only to defend and attack on a standing position,
but on a sitting and lying down position as well. The exercise of ascending and
descending the stairs during a duel is so difficult and tiring. Disarming is also part of the
drills.
Training with Master Diego is not easy. I often find myself catching my breath
during the swordplay, while Master Diego is laughing and comfortably attacking and
parrying my strikes. At the end of each session, I am totally exhausted. My shoulders
ache and I could hardly lift my arms. At home before going to bed, I would take a muscle
relaxant to relieve the pain so I could train again in the next session.
As I continue my training with
Master Diego, I am learning not only the art
of bladed weapons but also, the essence of a
good swordsman, the discipline and the
commitment that one must have to the art.
Christened as Antonio Ramoneda
Diego Maestro, Mang Tony as he prefers to
be called has truly lived up to his name, a
“Maestro” in bladed weapons… a Master by
name and by heart.
Peachie sparring with Master Diego
In promoting the Filipino martial arts Peachie has continuously given in
demonstrations, organized practitioners together so they could demonstrate their art as
you will see in the following.
School of the Year 2008
Senkotiros International
By Steven K. Dowd
Basdiot, Moal Boal
Cebu, Philippines
Unlike other Philippine martial art styles, Senkotiros originators were probably
not able to pass on the art to their descendants primarily because of the widespread
necessity to find work in other provinces and cities. The demand for work forced the
practitioners to spend most of their time away from home. As in most Filipino fighting art
systems, it is difficult to determine the exact origin of Senkotiros. Some say that it was
derived from the "Camarin" style.
The word "Camarin" means a place to store rice or "palay" or any other grains
harvested during the harvest season. The Camarin system was practiced in the "camarin"
(warehouse or factory) to avoid being seen by the public and thus maintain the secrecy of
their style. "Camarin" also became the name given by the locals to those who worked in
the camarin. When asked about their style of arnis, the practitioners would respond,
"Camarin Style". Others thought that the system was named after the Camarines Province
of the Philippines. It was not until after World War II that the art of Senkotiros started to
surface in the urban communities of the Bicol region of Southern Luzon. Luis Moratillo,
a Barangay chief and police officer, was one of the practitioners of this style of arnis in
Sipocot, Camarines Sur during those days. In 1947 he passed away, leaving the art of
Arnis to his young grandson's mind (emong) only to be revived 20 years later.
It was not until after World War II that the art of Senkotiros started to surface in
the urban communities of the Bicol region of Southern Luzon. Luis Moratillo, a
Barangay chief and police officer, was one of the practitioners of this style of arnis in
Sipocot, Camarines Sur during those days. Unfortunately, his life-style sent his poor
health from bad to worse because of sleepless nights spent on his gambling habits. In
1947 he passed away, leaving the art of Arnis to his young grandson's mind (emong) only
to be revived 20 years later.
Urban legend indicates that the Camarin workers were constantly ridiculed
because of their subordinate place in society. The Camarin workers practiced Arnis in
order to defend themselves against the many groups that constantly wanted to harm and
ridicule them. Not long after its development, the rich owners of the camarins
(warehouses) soon started to hear tales of the deadly art of Arnis practiced by the
workers. This discovery prompted them to investigate the workers and their fighting
capabilities. Those that were found to be experts in Arnis and had been working for the
owners for many years were considered loyal and were hired as their personal
bodyguards or "katuwang" (trusted right hand person). This practice continued
throughout the years. From Camarines style soon Senkotiros resurfaced and was adopted
because of the deadly five striking angles.
Others thought that Senkotiros was the same as the better-known art of Arnis,
Cinco Tiro. Cinco (or "sinko" or "senko") means "five", and "tiro" means, "strike".
"Senkotiros", although similar in meaning to "Arnis" Cinco Tiros, was developed in the
Bicol region independently from Cinco Tiros. The word "Senkotiros" could also mean
"senior student" in the art of Arnis, or the "Arnis Master". This style of Arnis, Senkotiros,
is known to be very deadly in the handling of the single stick or "solo baston". Ultimately
the goal of this system is to develop great expertise in the art of empty handed fighting.
The main concept of Senkotiros is to disable and not to kill unless necessary.
Grandmaster Pallen learned the basic techniques
of the style from his grandfather. His grandfather, Luis
Moratillo, a Barangay chief and police officer, was one
of the practitioners of this style of arnis. These
teachings, from many years ago, sparked Grandmaster
Pallen’s life long interest in the heritage that is the
Philippine martial arts.
Grandmaster Pallen continues to develop
Senkotiros, his system of Philippine martial arts; he has
worked tirelessly to perpetuate the martial heritage of the
Philippines; and he has established himself as a
consummate instructor, competitor, coach, promote, and
official. He is also a proud instructor, coach, and trainer
of several World Stickfighting Champions.
Grandmaster Max M. Pallen
Karangalan at Karunungan
Nobility and Knowledge Award
Sam L. Buot Sr.
Grandmaster Max M. Pallen
By Steven K. Dowd
The FMAdigest wanted to recognize a couple practitioners for their dedication
and support of the Filipino martial arts and the Filipino culture. This is what their award
states:
In recognition of the dedication, promotion and support of the Filipino Martial Arts. For
selfless devotion, integrity and greatness of spirit, you have exemplified the highest type
of leadership with uncompromising commitment to quality and excellence for the
preservation of Filipino Martial Arts Culture, Science and Heritage. It is an honor and
privilege for the FMAdigest to recognize:
And with this said it was decided that Sam L. Buot Sr. and Grandmaster Max M.
Pallen were recognized with this award for 2009. Just to learn a little about these to
practitioners here is a short word and then their Special Editions so you can know more
about them.
Sam L. Buot Sr.
Sam Buot, Sr., was born in Cebu City on March 24,
1936, eldest son of Alfredo and Susana Lagrito-Buot. He
grew up in the rough neighborhood of Katipunan Street in the
Labangon District of Cebu City. He learned the rudiments of
eskrima from Teddy Buot, who lived next door. Sam left
home at the tender age of twelve to study at Silliman
University in Dumaguete, Negros Oriental, from high school
through law school. Eskrima was limited to the summer
vacations. Except for some neighborhood boxing, with smelly
gloves and old-fashioned bare-knuckle brawls, serious studies
of the arts did not occur until after college. Besides education,
the university polished his dull edges with some culture.
However, the enduring Darwin’s theory of the
"survival of the fittest and elimination of the unfit," never totally left him. After college,
he found himself heir to his father’s struggling real estate business. He built up his
business to an extraordinary success. He developed subdivisions, acquired real estate and
had arguably, the most successful brokerage firm in Cebu City at that time period.
After college, he resumed his eskrima studies, although business and his law
practice competed for his time. During martial law in the Philippines in 1972, owning
firearms was a capital offense, punishable by death. The only legitimate way to defend
one-self was through martial arts. This intensified Sam’s interest in the martial arts, most
especially eskrima. Self-defense became an urgent matter. He was smitten by the
sophistication, finesse and elegance of the art, especially since it was indigenous to the
Philippines. In the age of colonial mentality, nothing home grown was deemed good,
only foreign made goods and imported ideas were believed worthy. It dawned on Buot
that the Philippines had something original and indigenous, which was comparable and
sometimes even better than many concepts of self-defense. As a staunch nationalist, he
wanted to promote the Filipino art. This time he
could afford to hire the best instructors. He
proceeded to hire all talents in Eskrima and other
martial arts - including Anciong Bacon. He worked
out during and after office hours until near curfew
hours at midnight and more intensively and
extensively on weekends. This went on until
Martial Law triggered his departure for the United
States. Eskrima obsessed him. It was a way to
escape his frustration with the oppressive and
dispiriting Martial Law regime of the conjugal
dictators Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos.
Buot has adapted the more open,
progressive and tolerant attitude towards
innovation and the growth of Eskrima - although
he is vigorous in the defense of the integrity of
Student and enthusiast of the art.
Eskrima as a Philippine art. He does not however
believe in rigid and narrow-minded inbreeding. Inbreeding is discouraged in the
propagation of the species, thus the forbiddance of incest. It is discouraged at schools of
higher learning. Otherwise, there is no infusion of new knowledge and ideas. It is seldom
that the student can excel beyond his teacher if he is not innovative and original in his
thoughts, unless he is willing to learn beyond what he has learned or even to question
what he has learned. As much as unadulterated Eskrima is much desired, it cannot be
denied that a majority of our students have had their basic martial arts experience at and
from other arts. Many of them are martial arts instructors and school owners. It is thus
necessary to know the defenses against the strengths of
these other arts and to take advantage, power and
control over their weaknesses. Sam Buot believes that
although Eskrima does not have all the answers, it
does provide a lot of the answers and defenses to these
other arts. When Buot’s students learn Eskrima, he
encourages them to apply their knowledge in either
offense to or defense against eskrima. He also believes
that for every counter, there is a
corresponding counter. Only
practice and mastery of your art
is the key to reflexive counters
and confidence. Sam Buot has
researched and innovated
techniques but refuses to take
credit - always crediting his teachers for his knowledge.
Grandmaster Max M. Pallen
Professor Max Pallen was born and raised in the
province of Camarines Sur, in Bicol Region, located at the
Southern part of Luzon in the Philippines. He was first
exposed to the Filipino martial arts at the tender age of six
by his Grandfather Luis Moratillo. His father, Zacarias
“Kid Baron” Pallen also exposed him to the art of
“Panuntukan”. His experience in street fighting goes back
to his younger years in the Philippines.
Professor Max Pallen was a young engineering
student in the University of Nueva Caceres in Naga City,
Camarines Sur in the
Philippines. In 1959, his
father thought that it would
help him develop a more
prosperous future by sending him to Honolulu, Hawaii,
but Max decided to go to California one year later.
At the beginning it was all hard times for young
Professor Pallen. Working side by side in the field with
the “Manongs” (senior Filipino workers) on the farm.
Fortunately, a year after, in 1961, Max was able to find a
permanent job in Oakland, California. While hanging out
at the West Lake Bowl billiard room section, he met a
combat jujitsu instructor who began instructing him in the
combat style of self-defense. In addition, Professor Pallen
continued his interest with other styles of martial arts.
Looking for a stronger foundation and cultural identity,
he decided to return to the Philippines to study and research Philippine martial arts.
Professor Pallen also had the opportunity to study here in the United States under several
Kali, Arnis and Eskrima Masters. He was a certified Guro (Instructor) in Kali Villabrille
system until he thought it was time to move on after 5 years. Today, his quest for
Philippine martial arts skills continues through his travel to Luzon, Visaya and Mindanao
in the Philippines.
In 1973 Professor Pallen, as a certified Modern Arnis instructor and first Modern
Arnis California Commissioner established the first Modern Arnis (Philippine martial art)
School in downtown, Oakland, California, 1974 Professor Pallen was the Executive
Producer of the Asian Martial arts Exposition that was held in Kaiser Civic Center
(Masonic Convention Center) in Oakland and introduced the very first Modern Arnis
(Philippine martial art) demonstration to the American public. He was the first and sole
mover of Modern Arnis as a Philippine identity in United States until Grandmaster Remy
Presas arrived from the Philippines in 1975, with the assistant of the Filipino Community.
During 1975, Professor Pallen and the Bay Area Filipino Community organized
the first Modern Arnis seminar for 7 law enforcement agencies and the Unified School
District in the wide Bay Area (West Coast), as well as the very first Modern Arnis martial
arts instructors’ camp. Professor Pallen and Grandmaster Remy Presas were also featured
as special guests and demonstrated Modern Arnis at the Ed Parker International Karate
Championship in Long Beach, California in 1976.
In the 80’s Professor Pallen started conducting
Filipino martial arts seminars and tournaments in
Northern California. In year 2000 he officially
revived the Senkotiros style he had learned from his
grandfather Luis Moratillo. Combining Senkotiros
with the knowledge that he had gained from other
masters now makes Senkotiros a complete style of its
own. It was also the beginning of Professor Pallen
conducting Senkotiros seminars nationwide.
In 2004, he demonstrated Arnis in the
Forbidden City and Shaolin Temple in China, as well
as in Russia in 2005. His quest continues to the other
parts of the World, traveling throughout Europe, Asia,
and Africa. With the guidance from his spiritual
protector in 2004, he was training with the Penjak
Silat (Selik Tou) group in the mountain of
Bukittinggi, Sumatra and missed the disastrous Tsunami by 7 days, on the way to the
Philippines.
Man of the Year 2009
Grandmaster Bobby Taboada
By Steven K. Dowd
The FMAdigest has just put a small sample about Grandmaster Bobby Taboada
and his style of Balintawak below. To get to know him more at the bottom of the article
download his Special Edition ‘Taboada Balintawak Arnis Cuentada’ and the Special
Issue ‘Taboada World Camp 2008’. In both issues you will read about Grandmaster
Taboada as a person, instructor, and his representation of Balintawak and Filipino
martial arts.
Grandmaster Bobby Taboada was born in Cebu,
Philippines on November 6, 1948, the oldest of the five
children of Sergio and Gabriela Taboada. He grew up
fighting in the streets of Cebu, not because he was a
troublemaker but because it was the only means of
survival on the streets. He in fact is soft-spoken and
very slow to anger except when he rises up in defense
of himself which is almost nil and infrequent. Bobby
was first introduced to eskrima by his father.
Grandmaster Taboada left home when he was
twelve and lived with Grandmaster Teofilo Velez like
an adopted son as well as a student of eskrima. That
literally meant sitting at the foot of the master in full
obedience and loyalty in his search for knowledge and wisdom. That was also when he
had the opportunity to learn from Grandmaster Jose Villacin and Great Grandmaster
Venancio "Ansiong" Bacon the secrets of Balintawak Eskrima. Bobby discovered that the
art was deadly, effective and sophisticated. As a fearless and undaunted volunteer for
fights and tournaments, Grandmaster Taboada was trained by all the Balintawak Masters
in the practical aspects of combat fighting. In this light, it must be emphasized that in the
Philippines, Eskrima is not a sport in the traditional sense of the word governed by rules
of safety. It means combat fighting and sometimes a fight to the finish. Only lately have
there been efforts to make it safe as a sport. Bobby is a long way from the street battles in
Cebu, where he has experienced street battles and deadly fights, some with multiple
opponents. He has also witnessed "fights to the finish" until one either surrendered or
died. Now he is on a mission to promote Balintawak Eskrima worldwide with primary
emphasis on self-defense techniques, which he has continuously researched, tested,
retested and improved on his own.
2nd FMA Festival 2004 in Dortmund, Germany
Grandmaster Bobby Taboada, Grandmaster Bob
Silver Tabimina, and Sam Buot
FMA Convention 2008
L - R: Robert Klampfer, Dr. Remy Presas Jr, Grandmaster Bobby
Taboada, Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje, Jeff Soriano, John Soriano
The Balintawak Arnis Cuentada Method
Balintawak Arnis Cuentada Focuses on the
use of a single stick and empty hands, concentrating
on close range fighting tactics, and can be classified
as a "modern system’, a composite of several fighting
methods, as opposed to the ancient and classical
methods.
The "Cuentada" system (from the Spanish word,
"cuentar" or "to counter") follows a basic principle of
physics and mechanics: the equality of force and
counterforce. For every resultant force, there is an equal and opposite reacting force. As
applied to the practice of Balintawak Arnis Cuentada, this mastery of the offensive and
defensive movements requires a series of well planned movements, wherein the opponent
cannot but reply with a corresponding set of forced movements and reactions. In this
way, the opponent is always kept under complete control. A true master of the art can
therefore predict with precision, which part of the body of the opponent he will target and
hit.
In the Balintawak Eskrima style the stick is used as the primary training tool to
familiarize the students with weapons and blows. It is believed that familiarity in
confronting weapons reduces fear and panic in actual combat. It is a combat both with
weapons and bare hands. The theory is that the stick is only an extension of the arm and
that the human body can only move in so many normal ways.
This is the development of certain basic blows
to illustrate the source and direction of blows. Beneath
the wide swinging, flashy and visible blows are the
sophisticated secret moves, dynamics in balancing,
holds, parries, clips, ruses, feigns, tripping, sweeping,
kicking, trapping, reversals of motion and direction,
blows with simultaneous offense and defense and a
myriad of combination blows with the stick, fist,
elbow, knee, foot or head butt. It is easy to hit but
difficult to defend. Thus an emphasizes is on a strong
defense for all beginners, mastery of the defensive
stage of the art and then the incorporation of speed in
the hand-eye coordination through reflex and flexibility
in the body movement.
There is no limit on where and what to hit
except in friendly workouts where injury is avoided
and safety is imposed. As a matter of fact, what is
considered foul in many arts is what is taught and
mastered in Balintawak. It is combat, street fighting and self-defense.
School of the Year 2009
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
School of Arnis Professionals
By Steven K. Dowd
plm.php0h.com
The National College of Physical Education began as a
professional class in physical education for principals and
supervisors at the Teacher’s Camp in Baguio City in 1932.
In 1935 Mr. Serafin
Aquino, then Superintendent in
Physical Education of the
Bureau of Education, organized
classes for teachers in physical
education at the Philippine School of
Arts and Trades, now the Technological University of the
Philippines on an experimental basis. These classes,
being experimental, did not have the approval of the
Director of Education and were, therefore, not given
credit until 1937, when physical education was included
in the curriculum of Public Schools.
Mr. Serafin Aquino was finally authorized to
Mr. Serafin Aquino
conduct classes on condition that the government would
be free of any financing. So he and his supervisors gave free services and even spent for
their own transportation. Teachers from the various provinces came to the city for
summer training and were charged P5.00 each for the purchase of equipment to be used
in the classes.
In 1938, arrangement with Dr. Regino Ylanan, Executive Secretary Treasurer of
the Philippine Amateur Athletic Federation, for the use of the facilities in the Rizal
Memorial Stadium with minimum rental.
In joint efforts, the PAAF and the Bureau of Education took charge of the dual
responsibilities of holding formal training in Physical Education. Each one had its own
function. The PAAF was responsible in providing the needed equipment, facilities and
the services of its personnel, while the Bureau of Education took charge of the
supervision, instruction and encouragement of teachers to take up Physical Education.
These combined efforts gave birth to the National College of Physical Education. To give
more incentive to teachers, the Director of Education sought authority from the Secretary
of Public Instruction to award a Certificate to students who have completed the
requirement of 28 units.
By 1941 the enrollment soared to 963. The Japanese occupation disrupted the
classes, but in 1947, they were reopened and were held at the war torn buildings of the
Philippine School of Arts and Trades.
Enthusiasm over the Summer School made the Honorable Jorge Vargas invite and
secure the services of foreign leaders in physical education to teach during the summer
term. Elise N. Nelsen of Sargents College, Boston,
USA was the first foreign instructor to teach at the
NCPE. Other foreign instructors came after Elise
Nelsen.
In 1960, due to strong demands of teachers,
a Master of Arts in Physical Education was offered.
The NCPE became the Marcos Sports
Academy under the Ministry of Youth and Sports
Development in 1979. In 1986 it became the
Philippine Institute of Physical Education and
Sports. And in 1993, the said institution was
transferred to Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
(University of the City of Manila), a state
university, thru the efforts of Dr. Alejandro L.
Dagdag, Jr., the Executive-Director and restore the
original name, National College of Physical
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Education.
(University of the City of Manila)
School of Arnis Professionals
National College of Physical Education
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
(University of the City of Manila)
National College of Physical Education
NCPE - Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Intramuros, Manila
School of Arnis Professionals
Course Descriptions of the Theoretical Subjects in the School of Arnis Professionals
1. Sports Science - A systematic approach to the understanding of the interrelationship of
physical and mechanical self-applied to training. It includes the study of the Law of
Inertia, Law of Acceleration and the Newton’s Law.
2. Physiology of Exercises and Physical Fitness - A thorough discussion of the latest
fitness concepts, gadgets and training techniques. A study of Physiological mechanisms
underlying physical activity, the comprehensive delivery of treatment services,
improvement, maintenance of health and fitness, sports training and human adaptability
to acute and chronic exercise.
3. Traumatology (First Aid) - discussion of the common injuries in contact sports and the
prevention, rehabilitation as well as management of said injuries.
4. Sport Psychology (Teaching Methodology) - This area of study deals on how
psychological factors affect behaviors on sports and athletics and how participation in
these activities affect the athletes. Coverage of this includes social perception,
motivation, group dynamics, development of motor skills, leadership, aggression
essential to working with teams and individual athletes.
5. Nutrition - Introduce the nutritional program of athletes during training, competition and
off season training with emphasis on Filipino and foreign diets.
6. Sports and Recreation Management - Focuses on the management, theories and
principles applied to sports competition.
Offered: Professional Sports Specialization Program.
Title: Certificate of Teaching / Coaching Arnis.
Description: The program is designed to prepare Professional Arnis Instructors and or
Physical Education Teachers by providing scientific knowledge and skills in teaching,
coaching and managing competitions.
Course Offered / Subject: (with units credited to each subject for P.E. major (CPE) and
MPES students of NCPE).
All academics subject are conducted at the NCPE-PLM classroom and the
practicum subject arnis are being held at the Department of Tourism quadrangle.
The program is designed to prepare professional Arnis Instructors and Physical Education
Teachers by providing scientific knowledge and skills in teaching, Coaching and
Managing competition.
Theoretical:
1. Sport Science (Bio-Mechanics)
2. Physiology of Exercise and Physical Fitness
3. Traumatology (First Aid)
4. Sports Psychology (Teaching Methodology)
5. Sports and Recreation Management
6. Nutrition and Drugs
Practicum:
Arnis1 - Basic: Foundation of Skills for Beginners and Physical Education Teachers
Arnis2 - Cultural: Anyo Standard, Creative and Classical or traditional
Arnis3 - Sport: Rules/Officiating, Mechanics and Strategies for competitions.
Arnis4 - Martial Art: Defense/Offense techniques (with and without sticks)
Admission Requirements:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Any Bachelor’s degree holder or undergraduate and/or:
P.E. Teachers
With Basic knowledge in Arnis
Arnis Trainers/Instructors
Class Venue: Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Intramuros, Manila and Department
of Tourism (Quadrangle) T. M. Kalaw Street, Manila, Philippines
Professor Armando C. Soteco
When Grandmaster Remy Presas migrated to the United States in 1975, he left to
Professor Soteco the responsibility of propagating all the more the art of Arnis while he
was doing his part of introducing the Filipino version of Martial Arts in the United States
and other European countries. When he appointed him as President of the Modern Arnis
from 1975 to 1977, he also passed to Professor Soteco his teaching load at the National
College of Physical Education, wherein Arnis is a required subject for teachers taking up
P.E. major, the teaching at the Armed Forces of the Philippines where Military Police
took Arnis lessons and Police Officers around the country.
He is also instrumental in the inclusion of Arnis in Physical Education curriculum
in High School students and supported the addition of Arnis in the College program when
he participated in the 1989 Consultative Seminar Workshop of then Department of
Education Culture and Sports (DECS), Bureau of Physical Education and School Sports
(BPESS), whose aim is to make definite and concrete P.E. activities for P.E. 1, 2, 3, and
4. The BPESS officials approved that Arnis be included in P.E. 3, with course description
as Individual/Dual Sport.
Because the seed of love for Arnis, that planted in his heart as insatiable, he thinks
of the growth and development of Arnis. Thus, in 2003, he organized and put a School of
Arnis Professionals at the National College of Physical Education, Pamantasan ng
Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila) in Intramuros, Manila,
Philippines.
He was designated as Director of this seminar type course by Dr. Alejandro L.
Dagdag, Jr., the Executive-Director of NCPE.
The program was designed to prepare professional Arnis Instructors and P.E.
teachers by providing scientific know-how in teaching/coaching and managing Arnis
competitions. Included in the Arnis Professional Course are some theoretical subjects
like:
• Sport Science (Biomechanics)
• Physiology of Exercise and Physical Fitness
• Traumatology ((First Aid)
• Sports Psychology (Teaching Methodology)
• Nutrition and Drugs
• Sports and Recreation Management
The Arnis specialization subjects included:
Arnis 1 - Basic: Foundation of skills for beginners and P.E. teachers
Arnis 2 - Cultural: Anyo Standard, Creative, and Classical or Traditional
Arnis 3 - Sport: Rules/Officiating, Mechanics and Strategies for Competition
Arnis 4 - Martial Art: Defense/Offense techniques (with and without sticks)
Admission requirements for this course are; any Bachelors Degree holder or
Undergraduate, P.E. teachers, with basic knowledge in Arnis, Arnis trainers/instructors
and Arnis practitioners. This is a one week course that runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
After taking the course, participants are given Certification as Professional Arnis
Instructor (Teaching/Coaching Arnis).
To know him well, Professor Armando C. Soteco is a retired Professor of San
Beda College (1967-2002) and Centro Escolar University, (1972-01) Manila, Philippines.
He is a degree holder of Master of Arts in Physical Education and Sports (MPES),
Bachelor of Science and Education (BSE) and Course in Physical Education (CPE). From
1972 up to present he is teaching Arnis for P.E. major and master subjects at the NCPEPLM (University of the City of Manila), Philippines, for P.E. teachers from both public
and private schools.
His unquenchable love for Arnis and his belief that traditional martial arts would
become a National Sport of the Philippines would not be in vain.
Organization of the Year 2009
Modern Arnis Remy P. Presas International Organization
MARPPIO
Remy P. Presas, Ph.D.
By Steven K. Dowd
MARPPIO consists of Mary Jane Presas-Seletaria,
Mary Ann P. Presas, Remy P. Presas, Ph.D., Maria PresasButler, Demetrio Jose P. Presas, and Rosemary Pascual
(Adviser, Philippines).
(MARPPIO) The Modern Arnis Remy P. Presas
International Organization, was Founded in 2001 and dedicated
to the loving memory of, Grandmaster Remy A. Presas
(Founder of Modern Arnis), and to carry on the legacy he left
us as the children and Family of Modern Arnis. MARPPIO was
established for three reasons:
1. Continuous promotion and propagation of the Filipino martial arts throughout the
world.
2. Cooperation and unification of all Modern Arnis enthusiasts and exponents
worldwide.
3. And foremost; the fulfillment of our father's final wish to me, to once again take
the cane and continue his legacy.
The Presas Family 1974
L-R: Demetrio Presas, Mary Ann Presas, Rosemary Presas, Jose Presas, Remy Presas Sr., Remy
Presas Jr., Mary Jane Presas, Maria Presas
MARPPIO, an Organization for the expansion and accurate depiction of Modern
Arnis, will provide students with working and effective knowledge of self-defense and
extensive mental, spiritual, and physical training in the Modern Arnis system in its
totality as taught by the Presas lineage. A student shall gain rank only when he or she has
grasped proficiency in a specific set of techniques and its applications. It shall commend
exceptional and outstanding individuals by granting well-deserved and well-tested
promotions, grades, degrees, and honorary titles. It will conduct seminars and sponsor
regular exhibitions and tournaments as a means of brotherhood and of gathering and
sharing knowledge and experiences among all Modern Arnis exponents from every
chapter.
The training curriculum of MARPPIO comprises of the following divisions:
Yantok (Art of the Single Cane): Derived from stubborn rattan vine, which is arguably
the best of all-purpose type of cane. In honor of the rattan cane, Yantok is the name given
to the single cane form. Includes: Disarming, Striking Techniques, Blocking, Parrying,
Sparring, Styles of Fighting: Abanico, Pilantik, Sungkiti, Banda y Banda, Figure 8,
Rompida, etc.
Pagsa Wali (Art of the Double Cane): Derived from the intricate weaving patterns of
sawali. Literally translates to "Way of Weaving", reflect the harmonious but devastating
path of the double cane form. Includes Advanced: Disarming, Blocking, Parrying,
Sparring, Striking Techniques and Styles of Fighting: Sinawali and Redonda.
Anyo (Art of Forms): The proving certificate of truly skilled Arnisador. Anyo is the way
of nothingness. Literally, Anyo translates to form, which could stand for just about
anything. In Modern Arnis, Anyo is the application of all styles learned throughout one's
training, and is performed with a specific weapon (i.e. cane, dagger, hands…) to show the
flow of that form. Anyo requires certain proficiency of beat, tempo, timing, agility, and
most of all, diwang panlaban (fighting spirit).
Talas-Talim (Sword and Dagger and Art of Blade Fighting)
Tapi-Tapi (Art of Parrying and Sparring)
Tindig (Art of Stances and Throws), derived from its literal translation, "To Hold One's
Position", Tindig is the art of cadence and weight manipulation. Even if one lacks in size,
one can overcome a much bigger opponent by utilizing the laws of physics through the
defender and the opponent. By being able to hold one's position, one can easily defeat an
opponent simply through mastery of inertia.
Sipa (Art of Kicks)
Palo-Palo (Art of Strikes)
KAMAO (Art of Fists)
Ultimately, MARPPIO will incorporate these arts and focus on the practical
application of all techniques for proper and dynamic results in a self-defense situation.
We encourage all martial arts enthusiasts to read the Modern Arnis Cardinal
Principle. Those who adhere to such principles are welcome to apply for membership.
Modern Arnis Cardinal Principle
By nature man is never violent. Unless otherwise affected by some physical or
psychological affliction, or forced by outside reasons or provocations, no man will harm
a fellow human being (or animal for that matter) let alone feast on their physical
sufferings. Man is an "institution" of love and kindness.
However, history is replete which stories of man's brutalities to his fellowman.
Wars were waged and lives were laid in battlefield after battlefields. This is a sad
commentary on man's true nature, or an irony of his being.
But it must be remembered that this violent quality of man is forced upon him by
the vicissitudes of time and circumstance. Outside forces edged him out of his human
resistance which inevitably led him to react in order to preserve himself, thus the truism
of the "survival of the fittest". The vagaries of a cruel life led man to violence.
This need forced man to devise arts and implements for fighting. From the first
caveman to the present spaceman, tools for fighting were made and improved until
sophisticated machines and implements of warfare have become dreadful realities.
Thus, the caveman had his stone clubs, the Europeans their epees and foils, the
Chinese their Kung-Fu and the Japanese, their Kendo and Karate, and many other with
their forms of martial arts. The Filipinos are not spared of this need. The Filipinos were
also forced to devise their own Arnis, the martial art of a cane which had its beginnings
even before the coming of the Spaniards.
Present trends, however, converted these martial arts into forms of sport.
Although they are taught as defensive and offensive weapons, their concentration is now
as a form of sport indulged in friendly competitions like all other wholesome sports.
These arts have "Cardinal Rules and Principles" to be observed and followed. Arnis has
its own principles that have to be inculcated in the student.
The cardinal principle in Arnis is respect for one's opponent as a person and as a
fighter, and as a sportsman. It should always be remembered that an opponent is a human
being with a dignity as you have and worthy of respect. Also do not under rate his
fighting ability overconfidence would be costly, if not fatal, therefore never
underestimate the ability of an opponent. Sportsmanship on the other hand is the measure
of a fighter or player. The laurels of victory should never be worn with superiority but
with humility. Victory is not a stamp of invulnerability but rather a reason for
magnanimity.
Besides these cardinal principles, there are other principles in Arnis that the
students, must remember these are: Character, sincerity, discipline, self-control, etiquette
and student's loyalty to his tutor.
Character - a ruffian has no place in Arnis let alone in sports. Refinement in character is
important. A student must be taught the moral (and religious) values of everything. It is
an obligation of the teacher of Arnis to mold the character of the student in such a way
that his behavioral structure would be motivated by righteous desire. It is what a man is
that counts not the number of trophies he won. In spite of the abetted fallacies of values
of the present world, it is who you are that will matter in the end.
Sincerity - sincerity for victory's sake is not the all--consuming end of an Arnis player. It
is the sincerity in him to his fellowman and to his art that makes him shine in the array of
men. The will to win maybe inculcated, but such tutelage should never end after the tick
of the ultimate second in the game but beyond the canvass and the arena of competition.
The martial art of Arnis, it should be remembered, is a good medium of development
man's sense of dedication in all his everyday endeavor and involvement. Sincerity is the
mother of trust and trust makes an institution of what has been shattered by doubts. A
man who is not sincere will never have a true friend.
Discipline - Arnis is a molder of discipline. Proper behavior in the sport and in life itself
will be the gauge of success. Personal discipline is important. The kaleidoscopic
invitations and temptations of life should never undermine man in his obligation to his
art, to himself and his fellowman. A student should learn to control himself in the
pursuance of his goal, not only to his art but also to life in general.
Self-control - losing one's head means defeat. One should learn to control his temper if
he hopes to achieve success in every endeavor. In Arnis, self-control is important for
without it, life and the good health of another may be lost. The possession of an ability to
kill or main a person should be handled with extreme caution and prudence. Man's clear
perception of things is anchored on his ability to control the outbursts of his inner self.
Provocation is dishonorable but hasty reaction to it is just as dishonorable if not
despicable.
Etiquette - etiquette is allied to the main cardinal rules in arnis. One's norm and standard
should never be imposed upon others. One should learn how to respect others. Giving
credence to the standard and ability of another person should or will best prepare
anybody in any endeavor. The pacific waters of human understanding will stay unruffled
if exercise of proper etiquette and respect whether it be in sporty competition or in life
itself is observed.
Student's loyalty - loyalty should be emphasized to the student, loyalty to the art, to a
fellow player, and to his teacher. Ingratitude to one is ingratitude to the other. A student
should be loyal to a fellow player because any disloyalty to him is disloyalty to the art
itself. More important, a student should be loyal to his teacher. Everything one has
learned is owned by him to his teacher. Personal whims should never cause one to be
ungrateful to where he owes everything he knows. Even if the ultimate aim of the art is
already achieved by a student that he can now manage on his own, he should never forget
the teacher who labored for him. In the skirmishes of things, the student should be always
loyal to him.
Life has shown us many treacheries committed in the name of greed and personal
gratification. This has no place in the art of Arnis or in sports for that matter. A true
sportsman is always loyal to his art and to the prime movers of the art. He sees with
gratitude in everything and everybody from whom he had owed everything he knows. In
this world of muck and mire only those who look back with gratitude shall succeed.
Loyalty to the fundamental basis of his achievements weighs for a greater measure in the
merits of man. Ingratitude is treachery and a traitor has no place in the forum of
honorable men.
Taken from the book authored by our beloved father, Remy A. Presas
"Modern Arnis, First Edition, 1974"
As a final note, Mary Jane Presas-Seletaria, Mary Ann P. Presas, Remy P. Presas,
Ph.D., Maria Presas-Butler, Demetrio Jose P. Presas, and several of Grandmaster Remy
A. Presas loyal followers, will accompany the family as they journey through the global
arena of martial arts. Don't miss out: MARPPO’s, objective are definite, and they will
fulfill their father's final wish and continue the Presas tradition of Arnis.
Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, with his five children.
(L-R) Remy Jr., Mary Ann, Maria, Mary Jane and Demetrio
During his last days in Victoria, Canada.
Organization of the Year 2009
MAMFMA
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts
By Steven K. Dowd
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts
School is duly recognized and registered by the Philippine
Government under by the Security Exchange Commission and
the Department of Trade and Industry with Registry Number
00156129. The MAMFMA was first registered July 21, 1995,
second registration year 2000 and third registration was 2005.
The logo name of Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial
Arts was copyrighted at the National Library, Manila on
October 6, 1995 with Copyright registry no. O 95-1006 by
Punong Lakan Garitony C. Nicolas which he called Arnis
Nicolas System (ARNIS). The Arnis Nicolas System promotes the classical, traditional
and modern approach of teaching the principles and philosophy of the art of stick fighting
- Arnis.
MAMFMA Vision
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts (MAMFMA) International,
inspired by the Christ virtues, envisions a totally integrated person of faith, peace and
service characterized by the Christian values for the formation of a just and humane
society, to regain the lost glory of the cultural Arnis and restore its place in the
International sporting events.
MAMFMA Mission
As a Filipino Martial Arts, it's committed to fostering Nationalism, to instill social
concerns and political awareness and to participate actively in community developments.
The mission of MAMFMA is two-fold: first and foremost is to regain the lost glory of
the art as an international sport and martial arts and restore in every Filipinos heart its
cultural heritage and indigenous value, second to advance the camaraderie of Arnis
practitioners under one roof and a common goal and leadership without losing their
individuality as a style, system or affiliation.
Present Day
Punong Lakan Garitony C. Nicolas continues to be the
Master of choice for many local and international celebrities
including other martial arts experts who came to learn Arnis in the
Philippines.
He is also the adviser of R and O Academy, Combination
of Arnis Kickboxing and Combative Arts Gym (CAKCA),
MAMFMA Intramuros Chapter, MAMFMA Malasiqui,
Pangasinan Chapter, MAMFMA Victoria Australia Chapter,
MAMFMA Chicago, Illinois Chapter, Philippine Arnis ManoMano Gym Dubai Chapter (PHILAMM) and MAMFMA
Wiesbaden Germany Chapter.
In government, he acts as the Arnis Instructor at the Philippine Indigenous Games
and Sports Savers Association Incorporated hosted by the Philippine Tourism Authority.
The MAMFMA today boasts of 1000 members; it continues to grow in influence
within both Filipino and World martial arts circles as a truly progressive example of a
proud traditional art, delivered and enhanced through moral philosophical thought and
modern teaching techniques.
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts (M.A.M.F.M.A) celebrated its
13th Years Anniversary on July 12, 2008 at R and O Academy headed by School
Directress Susan B. Contillo. The guests of honor were; Punong Guro Julius Quintans of
Combination of Arnis Kick Boxing Combative Arts (CAKCA) of Malasiqui, Pangasinan,
Master Jaime Paclibar of Bicol Arnis and Master Celso Sandigan of Mink Mongoose
Isabela Province Arnis Club. The parents of R and O Academy supported the event and
to watch their sons and daughters competing in the Anyo Competition. The two
participating teams were R and O Academy Kids and Mink Mongoose Kids who came
along from the north part of the Philippines, a 10 to 12 hours drive, just to compete and
join the celebration of MAMFMA Anniversary. Before the competition began, the two
schools presented an Arnis Demo, Mink Mongoose presented a Synchronized Anyo,
while the little R and O Kids presented a Sinawali exhibition were the guests are amazed
because of their cute and nice executions.
The three Masters of Arnis, Punong Lakan Garitony “Sir Pet” Nicolas of Modern
Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts, Master Jaime Paclibar of Bicol Arnis and
Master Celso Sandigan of Mink Mongoose Isabela Province Arnis Club Paclibar
demonstrated Filipino martial arts techniques.
Punong Lakan Garitony Nicolas with
Dayang Rhiverli Quine demonstrating
Arnis free style techniques
Master Celso Sandigan, 2 sticks twirling
Master Jaime Paclibar,
demonstrating locking techniques
The guests of honor Punong Guro Julius Quintans of Combination of Arnis Kick
Boxing Combative Arts (CAKCA) of Malasiqui, Pangasinan, Master Jaime Paclibar of
Bicol Arnis and Master Celso Sandigan of Mink Mongoose Isabela Province Arnis Club
were given Certificate of Appreciation by Punong Lakan of Modern Arnis Mano-Mano
Filipino Martial Arts in joining and celebrating its 13th Year Anniversary.
Punong Lakan Nicolas, Master Jaime Paclibar,
Secretary General Guro Anthony Gatchalian
Punong Lakan Nicolas, Master Celso
Sandigan, Secretary General Guro
Punong Lakan Nicolas, Punong Guro Julius
Quintans, Secretary General Guro Anthony
Gatchalian
Modern Arnis Mano-Mano Filipino Martial Arts 13th Anniversary was also the official
releasing and signing of Punong Lakan’s new Books for the year 2008 namely Arnis for Kids,
The Philosophy of Arnis Nicolas System, Eagle and the Freestyle. Witnesses are former Club
President of MAMFMA, Lakan Jerrick Cyrus Tan, Punong Guro Julius Quintans, Lakan Jaime
Francisco, Lakan Rogelio Vasquez, Lakan Brian Plaza and Master Jaime Paclibar of Bicol Arnis
Club.
On the Anniversary day, Punong Lakan was also interviewed by Doctor Rimando C.
Saguin M.D., host of UN TV Channel 37 for his “Kaagapay” TV Show with Dayang Peachie
Saquin.
MAMFMA Outreach Program
H. Domingo St. Pasay City, Philippines
December 15, 2007
Almost 200 families received the goods;
there are games, dance, etc...
The MAMFMA would like to thanks the
following: Jacky Nguene from British
School of Manila, Dinah Dominguez and
Family, Anthony Gatchalian, Damaso
Villanueva, Richard Makalintal and
Family, Capt. Dante Tamayo, Annie
Ablong, Jeffrey Tarrangco, Ryan and
Niki Rojas, Pastor Jun Sunga, Pastor
Rodolfo R. Baustista Jr., Romeo
Punong Lakan Garitony Nicolas
Solatorio, Ceasar Turingan and Family,
Rogelio Vasquez and Family, and Jerome Lagahit.
Websites
MAMFMA
Dedicated to the Filipino Martial Arts and the Culture of the Philippines
Special Issue
2010
School of the Year 2010
Magdaraog Martial Arts
Legaspi ,Philippines
By Steven K. Dowd
The Magdaraog Martial
Arts School is located in Legaspi,
Philippines and to say the least it
is a very unique school. Actually
Grandmaster Roy B. Magdaraog
refers to his school as an “All
weather training area”.
The art consists of Magdaraog Zen Aikido Jutsu Ryu and
Armas y Mano Magdaraog System. As stated by Grandmaster
Magdaraog, “The difference of
our Filipino martial arts is that
we in the Magdaraog Martial Arts
System have a unique system that
has been kept very secretly by my
father (Reynaldo Ayo Magdaraog)
the use of the Aikido/Aikijutsu
principles and incorporated the
Filipino arts of Arnis, Eskrima and
Kali; or the Stick and Knife weapons. And it has been used in Magdaraog Martial Arts System.The
Magdaraog Martial Arts System
is a principle of martial discipline
that only a few can survive the
brutal training and only some can
have the privileged to be trained
one-on-one in the Zeta theory and
principles that the late Reynaldo
A. Magdaraog had developed. And
me as the son “Grandmaster Roy B
Magdraog” has improved the zeta
that my father trained me in with
the true meaning and theory principles of it. The Alpha-Omega and
Alpha techniques have been added
and improved with more powerful
techniques.
The Magdaraog Martial
Arts System is a martial discipline that has been here for many
14
years; a martial art that has survived many trials, and this is not
only concerned with the physical,
mental and spiritual unity of each
practitioners.
The training is different,
we train in a place that is available and the environmental matter
whether rain or shrine. Each of
our practitioners will be trained
for years; if they can survive the
training which it must be a training of dedication, determination,
and so on… the Armas Y Mano
Magdaraog System”.
The essence of the Magdaraog system training is from the
teachings, training and practice in
the art of Zenaikiojutsu, a student
must have the basic of that system. The Armas Y Mano is for the
Masters of the Magdaraog System.
Armas Y Mano is the training,
teaching and practice of the more
detailed and more advance training. The training is to have the
knowledge of the human anatomy
and engineering, paranormal and
the level of understanding; this is
more of the detailed process of the
system, that’s why the only one
that can be a member and train in
this system must pass in the Zen
Aikido Jutsu training. This basic
requirement is different from the
other martial arts.
Armas Y Mano Magdaraog
Martial Arts System is an art that
Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog
developed before the passing of
his father, whom his father, had
told him how he could transform
2008
Due to the rain, the cement was slippery,
so instructors spread dirt on the cement to obtain traction in movement.
Master Ariel Dacillo and Master Charlie Austria demonstrated the free style of Armas y Mano movements which
feels like the actions on how to move in a complicated
movement and to feel what it can do in real situations.
This is a double Arnis free style movement which is
required for every member of the system.
Armas Y Mano Magdaraog Martial Arts System
the arts of the Aikido into the arts that is original and a
Filipino martial art. Then Armas Y Mano was born, all
the movements and basics are from what his father had
developed in the arts of the Zenaikidojutsu which his
father had founded and developed with the Zeta theory.
The art was designed to develop a single strike in just a
Arnis training against multiple attackers
click.
The Publisher of the FMAdigest was fortunate
to be able to witness the art of Magdaraog martial arts
at their training area. There were no tricks in the demonstration, no fancy movements to amuse or impress as
in a movie. Grandmaster Magdaraog always reminds
his students when they train or do a demonstration to
do it for real; it must be real.
Grandmaster Magdaraog and his instructors
and students demonstrated the true essence and nature
of the Magdaraog Martial Arts System.
The training is hard. Only the dedicated and
loyal will remain. That’s why there are only few
students who prevail. Students don’t use mats. There
is little difference in teaching the girls from the boys.
All are challenged especially those that have second
thoughts about their capabilities. Magdaraog martial
arts, is after quality not quantity. No black belts have
been promoted with less than 8 years of rigid train15
ing. And they have to pass tests to
prove their worth.
In talking to the senior students they have different perceptions. Though they are eligible for
promotion to brown or black belt,
they decline, saying that their skill
still needs refinement. Jokingly
Grandmaster Magdaraog says to
them, “It was I who recommended
you for promotion gauging upon
your performance and skills acquired”. Yet they decline.
Masters and Instructors are
all living in nearby locality. They
are all in the Bicol Region, Albay to be specific. At the moment
there are 5 Masters, but one was
expelled the other one is “Floating” pending final decision on his
status.
In the Magdaraog martial
arts system, to be authorized to
teach the arts you must pass the
required tests and then you will be
given a verbal and a certified certification with the Bible and Instructors Manual of the system that they
would be teaching.
Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2008
Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2009
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2009
Using natures resources Grandmaster Magdaraog demonstrates, ground giving techniques on how to move against single
and multiple opponents in the training of the Plum Flower technique.
L-R: Leonardo Patilleros Jr., Jason Gacosta, Ariel Dacillo,
Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog, Charlie Austria, Alfredo Gayanilo
17
18
Organization of the Year 2010
By Steven K. Dowd
Mission
The United States Filipino
Martial Arts Federation is a nonprofit Organization run by a group
of volunteers with no paid staff
employees.
Their mission is to create
an Organization that represents
“ALL” martial art forms that trace
their roots back to the Philippines.
To provide an environment that
allows safe honest competition for
all ages, officiating and rules that
is fair and impartial and promotes
the exciting world of Filipino martial arts.
The USFMAF is a growing
organization and as with all organizations that are growing rapidly
there have been and will be difficulties and hurdles to overcome.
They have learned from their successes and failures and continue to
strive to present the best Filipino
martial arts competition platform.
They invite all like-minded individuals to join them.
By joining the Federation
you are supporting an Organization that will provide excellent
seminars and specialized training
sessions throughout the United
States by Masters and Grand-
masters representing a variety of
Filipino styles. Those members in
good standing at the time of registration will be entitled to a majority of USFMAF sponsored events.
The USFMAF tournaments
could not be successful without
trained judges/referees and volunteers. They have an elite crew
who has volunteered their time in
all their past and future tournaments in support of USFMAF. The
USFMAF has instructors, Masters
and Grandmasters with many years
experience in Filipino martial arts
who contribute their knowledge.
Darren Tibon, President of USFMAF
Darren Tibon has supported Filipino martial arts tournaments for almost
two decades from Stockton, Sacramento, the Bay Area, Southern California to San
Diego and Hawaii. It has been his honor to coach his students in the tournament
circuit and see up close the different systems and styles of Filipino martial arts who
participate in athletic competition. One thing he has noted in all the traveling and
tournament circuits his students participated in, was that no matter what tournament
you compete in or what division is offered, continuous, point systems or live stick
divisions, generally the Filipino martial arts background or system which the judges
support in that area, will often dictate the points which are recognized. With that being said, Darren Tibon had to change the fight plan from tournament to tournament
according to the general style which would be judging or hosting the tournament.
Mr. Tibon found that he had to do this in order to get his teams techniques recognized.
As much as he was coaching his students on the various differences and
techniques to counter offensively and defensively, he was also analyzing the judging systems, what they reacted to and, what is just as important, what they did not react to. More focus was put
on just how important it is to have experienced judges, those who could recognize many facets of the systems
within Filipino martial arts. The only way this could be done was to come together with all the supportive
Filipino martial arts Grandmasters, Maestros, Masters and Guros who promote tournament competition or who
were interested in promoting tournament competition to their students and train judges to become “elite”. The
United States Filipino Martial Arts Federation foundation is based on honesty and integrity, and the right man
will win, and was started in June 2006.
19
The Board of Directors where named and the ground work began. Conference meetings were started and
one of the first items on the agenda was the creation of the rules and regulations and divisions which would be
offered. Referee Clinics were held in Stockton, CA., Pleasanton, CA ., and Los Angeles CA, and Oregon, guests
from Oklahoma attended. The word spread and Regional Sports Organizers jumped on board from Oregon,
Oklahoma, Arkansas, Long Beach, CA., Los Angeles, CA., and San Diego, CA.
In 2006, the USFMAF went to Disney’s
Martial Arts Festival and did a demonstration
in the Saturday Showcase to introduce the Filipino martial arts to this circuit. This was broadcasted live via webcast. There were people
watching them live from California during
this demonstration in Florida which was very
exciting to say the least. The USFMAF wanted
to see what would be expected of them for the
year to come and, once again, more planning
and work needed to be done.
Darren Tibon felt the hard work had
paid off, many new RSO’s embraced the USFMAF idea and their students felt the divisions
USFMAF was first introduced in October 2006
they competed in were very well judged and
at the Disney Night Showcase.
refereed and they continue to support USFMAF. Mr. Tibon stated, “We of this federation are about doing everything for the right reason most of all competitors will feel they have a fair chance”. With that said, Mr. Tibon stands by his word and with the faith he has
in USFMAF certified judges and referees and a world class venue as the competition ground it sounds almost
too good to be true. Fellow Escrimadors it is true, and it is very real.
In 2009 a new division was introduced in the USFMAF “The Cultural Challenge”. Darren Tibon having had the honor of speaking with Sensei Dana Abbot,
Director of Chanbara a very respectful tournament circuit which is based nationally and
internationally utilizing five major weapons of the Japanese martial arts.
It would be a division for which Filipino martial arts would utilize all their respected simulated weapons of the Philippines against those of Japan. All weapon arts of
the world are welcome to join in on this very honorable and respected challenge which
took place in 2009 beginning at DISNEYLAND® Martial Arts Festival, March 27-28
in Anaheim, California.
The USFMAF is looking at this division as one of the greatest opportunities for
all the Philippine weapon arts to represent Filipino martial arts against the world.
The USFMAF is always looking for professionals with experience in the following areas: Medical Field,
Accounting Field, Legal Field, Judges, Referees, Time Keepers, Score Keepers.
As their membership grows their goal is to provide honest fair and fun events for their members in their
local areas. This being said, the USFMAF is always searching for Regional Sports Organizers throughout the
entire country.
If you or someone you know has a passion for Filipino martial arts and want to be on the forefront; please send
the USFMAF an email usfmaf@gmail.com and tell them a little about yourself and they will get back to you
soon.
Interested in becoming a Regional Sports Organizer or want more information on what it takes to become an
RSO, send email to usfmaf@gmail.com to get details.
20
President: Darren Tibon
Vice President: Alex France
Secretary: Darlene Tibon
Treasurer: Anthony Wade
Executive Marketing Director: Mark Larence
Executive Consultant: Eugene Tibon
Volunteer Coordinator: Jackie Wade
North West RSO Chairman: Mike Bowers
RSO Chairman: Master Mike Schwarz III
Membership Committee: Victor Chavez
USFMAF Elite Judges/Referees
Ascuncion, Gabriel
Bais, Jon
Brown, Gordon
Cabales, Gelmar
Finder, Jeff
Huang, Wenson
Massellones, Mateo
Preciado, Jerry
Preciado, Robert
Tibon, Chez
21
Master of the Pen 2010
Marc Lawrence
By Steven K. Dowd
In his late twenties while working
at a refinery he met an older Filipino who taught the Filipino martial
arts. He had shown him some
basics moves and found that it
blended well with what he already
knew. When he was 29 he met his
wife, a Filipina, from Carson, CA.
After they were married his fatherin-law a WW-2 veteran was talking
and he told Marc about how he was
trained as a little on the Big Island
Hawaii, it was a version of Cinco
Terros. His father-in-law said it
was the man’s responsibility to
protect his family. Marc met other
family members that showed him
some more. Marc said it was his
mother in law’s relative (Manong
Espi) who was good. He was an
old school Arnisador. He showed
Marc and his older son some more
basics.
Marc and his son met a
fellow named Louis who practiced
Arnis in the park, he taught the
Cacoy Doce Pares Method. But
what he knew was limited. It was
just stick fighting only. Marc had
formed a small group at the factory where he worked, they would
met and practice out in the maintenance yard behind the SEA containers.
Marc said that it was his
mother-in-law who told him of
a teacher who was new to the
United States and needed students.
So Marc and his son went up to
Los Angeles and started training
with Master Erwin Mosqueda of
Doce Pares in his yard and then at
a local park. This was Marc Lawrence’s first formal training in the
Filipino martial arts.
As Marc trained in the
Filipino martial arts he would sit
and listened to the stories of his
wife’s family; he realized that
there were many great stories and
much knowledge that had not
been shared. Marc felt that it was
important for his sons to have pride
in their Filipino Heritage. Marc
started collecting the family stories
and knowledge, to share the Filipino pride with his children, family
and friends. Marc started writing
stories and history he had collected.
Marc as part of his work in
Fire prevention he wrote monthly
columns about work place fire
safety; this gave him the skills to
write articles. Marc started writing stories for FMAdigest and the
Filipino Martial Arts Museum Web
Page.
Marc Lawrence has become a constant contributor to the FMAdigest always looking for a story, interview etc. The following are some of the articles that he has written for the FMAdigest:
Regular Issues
- JEDOKAN - Vol6 No2
- Filipino Martial Arts in the United States - Vol6 No3
- Carin’s Doce Pares - Vol7 No2
- LAHUKA Eskrima - Guro Jovelyn Minoza - Vol7 No3
Special Issues
- Young Practitioners III - Keeping Tradition Alive in Torrance
- Disneyland Martial Arts Festival Anaheim, CA. 2009
Special Editions
- Pakamut - The Beginnings of PAKAMUT, The Early Training Years of Master Felix Roiles, Best of the Best
2006, and 2007 Stick Fighting Tournament,
- FMA Law Enforcement and Military Training II - FMA training for Law Enforcement Officers
- Homemade Training Equipment Building Your Own FMA Back Yard/Garage Studio and Homemade Weaponry
- FMA Daga II - Basic Knife Fighting
24
- Philippine Weaponry - Entire Issue
Mini Issues
- FMA Long Beach Internationals - USFMAF & South Bay FMA Club Judging & Referee Workshop and South
Bay Filipino Martial Arts Club Adventures at Long Beach International
- Stick Grappling Workshop - Main Article
- SBFMA Workshop - Main Article
Commencing with Volume 7 No1 Marc
Lawrence commenced the column / editorial Building Blocks of FMA.
Master Marc Lawrence in 2009 received
the FMAdigest recognition for his continued efforts
and demonstrated abilities as a competitor in Filipino martial arts competition.
25