Sikaran Taliba Vol3 No5

Volume 3
September - October 2014
Canada
Number 5
Europe
Middle East
United States
of America
Asia
Philippines
Central and
South America
INTERNATIONAL UMBRELLA GOVERNING THE
WORLD SIKARAN BROTHERHOOD
Australia and
New Zealand
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Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo
Honorary Editor Emeritus
Emmanuel es Querubin
Editor in Chief
Elpidio Seletaria, Jr.
Managing Editor
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.
Editor-at-Large
ERP
Art Editor
Philippine Correspondent
Erlina Bartolata
SIKARAN PILIPINAS PUBLICATIONS
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A NEW DAY IN SIKARAN IS DAWNING
By: Mantas Marangal Emmanuel es Querubin
9th Degree Red and White Belt
Executive and Technical Assistant to the Grandmaster
On March 10, 2015, Sikaran will shine its new light. It will be a new dawn for this
centuries old original Filipino Art of Fighting. On this day, a new leadership will take over.
Pantas (Master) Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. will officially assume the total leadership of Sikaran.
He will be the final authority in Sikaran. He is the principal commanding authority of the
Geronimo Sikaran lineage.
Unlike his father, Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo whose birth was announced by ringing
of the bells in Baras, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.'s birth was heralded by a powerful and
devastating typhoon of the decade. Is this an omen of the drastic changes he needs to undertake
in order to set straight the damage done, due to the mismanagement by the acting in-charge.
Compared to the militaristic leadership of his father, and the autocratic leadership of the
acing in-charge, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo Junior's leadership is democratic, modern, and
task-oriented.
Democratic leadership is participative in nature. The leader and the subordinates
participate in the decision-making. Although the final decision rests on the leader, the
subordinates' morale is boosted because they play a part in the process of the decision-making.
They accept changes easily, having been a part in the process. The leader and the team set
predetermined goals and work together to achieve these goals and agree to follow the direction
set by the leader. Everyone is given a certain task to perform. Based on performance results,
rewards or punishments, are handed out.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo. Jr. is a
stickler for communication and he is aware
that motivation, productivity, and efficiency
are achievable through open communication.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., also
knows there is no best style of leadership. He
knows it is the situation that will decide what
kind of style would be the most effective in
achieving the organizational objectives. Being
a born leader, he is aware that there are highly
trained and experienced members who do not
President Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. with his
need supervision, and there are those who
need little or direct supervision. When the
wife Raquel, who is also his Personal
situation requires, he can tell his subordinates
Assistant.
what to do and how to do it the way he wants
it done and exercises firm authority over them. Sometimes he seeks the input of his subordinates
before making a decision. He puts himself as a member of the team and discusses possible
decisions with the rest of the team. When a decision is made, the whole team takes responsibility
and is part of the final decision.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., also employs diplomatic approach to leadership, and
negotiates when needed. However, his greatest asset in his style of leadership is his wisdom and
courage to delegate his authority.
He is able to anticipate situations before they become problems and visualize what thing
could be in the future. Being able to improve the current situation, he is able to attract followers
and inspire their needed commitment for whatever cause to succeed.
When he took over as President
of World Sikaran Brotherhood of the
Philippines, There was a proposition for
him to assume the title Supremo.
However, he said there is only one
Supremo and that is his father Meliton
C. Geronimo. The title, was bestowed
on him by the Sikaran elders, led by his
Grandfather Cipriano Geronimo, and
the other Sikaran elders like Melencio
Bigasin, Manuel Ocampo, Aurelio
Cabacob, Angeles Pilapil, and
Servillano Javier. He was given the title
Grandmaster by the Asian Karate
Association on the same occasion.
Last Sikaran Hari of Baras Cipriano Geronimo
Nobody has the right to use the title
and his wife Vina. Cipriano and the living
Supremo, as there can never be
Sikaran elders gave the title "Supremo" to
anybody who has the right to be called
Meliton C. Geronimo.
Grandmaster. There were also some
who suggested that since he is now the
President, Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., should be promoted to the 10th Degree Red Belt. To all
people who want to put Meliton, Jr., in the same status as his father, here is what he said:
"When the Grandmasters of the Asian Karate Association promoted my father in
1966, he was given the title Soke (founder) with the rank of 10th Degree Red Belt, the
highest rank in Sikaran, and the only authority who can promote. My father promoted
me to the 9th Degree Red and White Belt. There is several 9th Degree Red and White
Belts presently but none of us can promote anybody to a rank higher than our own or
even equivalent to our own at this time. Probably, in the future, there may be
provisions to make this possible. At this time, my only concern is to continue the
legacy Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo has built and take Sikaran further than can be
imagined. This is the task I have my sight on."
To reach his goal, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., has formed a Consultative Team,
made up of his trusted people whose experience and knowledge were gained through direct
observation, and participation. He keeps an open line of communication with his Consultative
Team, and confers with them whenever needed. Meliton, Jr.'s, Consultative Team has a 200
years combined teaching experience of several martial arts. They also have professional
academic background ranging from Management and Supervision, Law Enforcement, Military
Officers, Police Special Weapons and Tactics to Hostage Negotiations and Political Science.
Not only does he keep an open line of communication, he also keeps an open mind in
regards to opinion, and advices. When he seeks an opinion, he does not take rank or position in
life into consideration. His father told him once, to "always keep an open mind, because you may
learn something even from the dull and ignorant."
The first thing that Pantas Meliton, Jr., did was to step back and look at the big picture of
Sikaran. He realized that the political status of Sikaran is too "centralized." To keep up with the
needs and a more efficient Sikaran organization, he is "de-centralizing" the command hierarchy.
He reviewed the By-laws of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines and
scrutinized it, so it can be streamlined to produce the desired effect. During his careful study of
the By-laws, Pantas Meliton, Jr., sought the advice of his consultative team.
The first action taken was to form the World Sikaran Brotherhood (sans the Philippines)
to be the International umbrella organization of all the country chapters. Each country chapter
will have a Country Director, including the Philippines, who will automatically be a member of
the International Executive Council. Each Country Chapter will have the necessary autonomy to
operate efficiently. However, all promotions to the 5th Black Belt Degree to the 9th Degree Red
and White Belt will be through the World Sikaran Brotherhood General Headquarters.
Certificates of Promotion, to be valid, must be signed by Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. The
authority to promote anybody in Sikaran was delegated to him by his father and nobody else.
However, he can delegate limited authority to a Technical Committee to further "de-centralize"
administration of the World Sikaran Brotherhood. Being a Senior Instructor or high-ranking
Black Belt, does not automatically give the authority to promote anyone to the Black Belt
Degree. Authority to promote was delegated only to Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., and
no one else. Anybody promoting anyone to the Black Belt Degree is usurping authority,
and such promotion is not honored and considered bogus and fake.
To better understand the purpose of the World Sikaran Brotherhood, it is necessary to
reprint hereunder Article I, Section 1. Declaration of Purpose of the By-laws:
"The WORLD SIKARAN BROTHERHOOD (WSB) is a non-profit Sports Association
of Sikaran aficionados, practitioners, instructors and senior officers and members of the
World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines (WSBP) based primarily in and outside of the
Philippines, aimed at continuing the legacy of Sikaran Grandmaster Meliton C. Geronimo,
10th Degree Red Belt, in promoting and propagating Sikaran, the unique and original
Filipino Art of Foot-fighting, all over the world; to establish a solid and unified association of
all Sikaran enthusiasts who adhere to the methodology, teaching and foundation initiated by
Grandmaster Meliton C. Geronimo when he first introduced Sikaran to the martial arts world
in 1958 not only in the Philippines but all over Asia and eventually around the world; to
strengthen the research and development towards a more progressive art; to produce and
publish books, periodicals, instructional videos, and other related materials; to establish
various programs that shall strengthen the recognition of Sikaran and the welfare of all WSB
members."
Presently, members of the World Sikaran Brotherhood in other countries almost
outnumber members in the Philippines. The biggest concentration of foreign Sikaranistas is in
the United States and in Canada. In fact, the World Sikaran brotherhood of Canada has held three
World Sikaran Tournaments. Pantas Meliton, Jr., envisions a World Tournament held in the
different member countries, at least once every three (3) years. If plans push through, the next
World Tournament may be held in the Philippines or the West Coast of the United States of
America. The first Sikaran Hall of Fame is also on the horizon. On these occasions, Pantas
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., plans to have all the Country Chapters in the world present.
Like his father, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., is always willing to mix it out with
every Sikaranista who is available, and willing.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., and Mantas Elpidio Seletaria, Jr., demonstrating
Sikaran attacks and counter-attacks.
Attack or counter
attack with a side kick
or a Front kick……
Finish the opponent off with a vertical
punch to the throat.
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.'s, training
is well balanced in the organizational as
well as the physical aspects of Sikaran. He
holds office at the Headquarters of the
World Sikaran Brotherhood in Vallejo, and
trains at the World Sikaran Brotherhood
central gym, also situated in Vallejo. He
plans to hold gatherings, seminars, clinics,
and classes at his new gym.
Open hand deflections of
Sikaran.
One of the complaints of the members is the lack of activities of the organization. To
remedy this situation, the new leadership will require each Country Chapter to submit an Annual
Schedule of Activities. He will consolidate all these schedules with the WSB's Annual Schedule
of Activities. One of these activities is to hold a seminar in each regional chapter. These seminars
will be handled by the WSBP Technical Committee. The Country Chapter's responsibility is to
provide the venue and the participants. Once a year, the headquarters will also hold a seminar
and representatives from the Country Chapters will be invited. To achieve this goal, Pantas
Meliton S. Geronimo. Jr., is now in the process of soliciting sponsors to fund these programs.
Another program that he has his sight on is the Teacher's Academy. The Provincial
Government of Rizal has set aside the funding for this academy in order to provide enough
instructors for all the public schools in Rizal. Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., has ambitions to
send Sikaran Teachers not only to the different provinces in the Philippines but also to different
countries.
Part of the Teacher's Academy is a program for
Tournament Officials.
In the last "World Sikaran Tournament," there
were questions regarding the tournament rules. There
were some last minute changes that were not
previously approved. In fact, there were participants
who complained that the rules used n this tournament
were different from the rules in the previous World
Sikaran Tournaments. People who have witnessed
tournaments in the Philippines were surprised to find
out that full contact kick to the head was not allowed,
even with the use of head protective gear.
To avoid these discrepancies in the future only
Tournament Officials certified and licensed by the
World Sikaran Brotherhood will be allowed to
officiate. Tournament Rules and Regulations will be
distributed to all members of the World Sikaran
Brotherhood, through the Country Directors.
In 2013, during the National Tournament in
Baras, Rizal, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., using
his personal funds, provided the officials with a Blue
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., like his
Barong Tagalog to identify them from the contestants
father Meliton C. Geronimo, Sr., not
and the audience.
only is a leader but also a fighter.
Pantas Meliton S.
Here he displays his first trophy.
Geronimo, Jr., wants to
professionalize Sikaran Tournaments, especially international
competitions.
The first requirement of a professional international
competition is the professional appearance and demeanor of the
officials. When the officials present a professional bearing, the
behavior rubs on the participants, and the audience resulting in a
professional competition.
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., is a firm believer of drills and forms. He is a stickler for
training.
The World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines' new President has a tough and rough road in
front of him, but Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., is ready and excited because he knows the
members of the WSBP all want change for the better. Change for the better is what he proposes
to bring. He envisions a World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines without "free loaders." He
will instill in every member the desire to improve the organization by doing their part no matter
how small it may be, because the total is the "sum of all the parts." Surely, with this dedication
Sikaran's new day is now dawning.
Milan, An Emerging Sikaran Capital City
By: Emmy d' Munting Anghel
Milan's area is listed as 71 square miles. Compared to Rome at 496 square miles, Milan is
a compact City. The City Center of Milan, where the tourist's sights are, is not even 2 miles from
end to end. Milan, is considered Italy's city of the future, and the fashion and culture city. Soon it
will also may be known as Italy's Sikaran Capital City, thanks to Armie Esparcia, 5th Degree
Black Belt World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines' Italy Country Director.
In Milan, Filipino martial arts of Sikaran, and Arnis de Mano are popular and seminars,
demonstrations, and exhibitions are always well attended.
On November 24, 2013, the Philippine- Indonesian Martial Arts Tournament was
highlighted by Sikaran and Arnis de Mano.
Armie Esparcia, Italy's Regional Country Director of the World Sikaran Brotherhood, stands on
the victory stand of the 4th Edition of the Kombat League World Championships in the spring of
2014. Picture below shows the Philippine Contingent.
Other pictures, showing the Sikaran Team of Armie Esparcia.
Italy's Regional Country Director Armie Esparcia, proudly displays the Philippine Flag and the
flag of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines.
Inside the gymnasium, the Sikaran Teacher Armie Esparcia trains her students.
enjoying their Certificate of Appreciation. Armie Esparcia, in Sikaran uniform is the only "Rose
Among the Thorns."
Italy's Country Director
Armie Esparcia, with
Grandmaster Dionisio
"Diony" Canete of Doce
Pares.
MANTAS ROMMEL GUIVESES PROPAGATES
SIKARAN IN THE EAST COAST
By: Mantas Marangal Andy Sanano, Jr.
9th Degree Red and White Belt
WSB United States of America Country Director
Whenever New York is mentioned, the first thing that comes to mind is September 11,
2001, or simply 911. On this infamous day terrorist attacked the United States by crashing
passenger planes on the World Trade Center Twin Towers, killing more than 3,000 innocent
people, about 400 law enforcement officers, injuring nearly ten thousand, and damaging the
nation's economy in the trillions as a direct effect and as an aftermath.
As the world watched the events unfolding in New York, another jet plane circled over
downtown Washington, D.C., and slammed into the west side of the Pentagon military
headquarters. This caused the structural collapse, of a portion of the giant concrete building.
Almost 200 military personnel and civilians were killed in the Pentagon, including the 64 people
aboard the airliner.
About 40 minutes after leaving Newark International Airport in New Jersey, a fourth
California-bound plane , was hijacked. Due to the delay in taking off, passengers on board
learned of events in New York and Washington via cell phone. A group of passengers and flight
attendants planned to fight back. They fought the four hijackers. Their action caused the plane to
flip over and sped toward the ground at upwards of 500 miles per hour, crashing in a rural field
in western Pennsylvania . Its intended target is not known, but theories include the White House,
the U.S. Capitol, the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland , or one of several nuclear
power plants along the eastern seaboard.
President George W. Bush, delivered a televised address from the Oval Office, At 9 p.m.,
declaring, “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot
touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of
American resolve.” In a reference to the eventual U.S. military response he declared, “We will
make no distinction between the terrorists who committed these acts and those who harbor them.
You can run but you cannot hide.”
Intelligence reports confirmed Osama Bin Laden and his Al Qaeda terrorists as the
persons responsible. On May 2, 2011, the Secret US Navy SEAL Team 6, killed Osama Bin
Laden, in a compound in Abbotabad, Pakistan after a 10-year hunt.
However, perhaps the worst result of this dastardly act was the fear it created in the
minds of every peace-loving person all over the world. This fear changed the whole world of
travel.
Now, 13 years later, things are getting back to normal as far as the economy is concerned.
However, security protocol is getting more sophisticated and stringent, and for good reasons. The
enemy is also getting more sophisticated and clever. Even as we go off the press there are rumors
that terrorists are developing a more advanced bomb, which cannot be detected with the present
security measures being implemented.
Having learned that fighting with the risk of dying is better than not fighting at all, the
Department of Homeland Security was established. One of the first results of the creation of the
DHS is the assigning of an armed Air Marshall, trained in the martial arts in every flight in the
United States of America. Sikaran is the martial art of choice of the Department of Homeland
Security as evidenced by this letter of appreciation.
To give New Yorkers and
anybody in the East Coast interested
to learn combative / defensive
measures system, both with the empty
hands or with the use of impact
weapons based on the Sikaran-Arnis
lineage of Grandmaster Meliton C.
Geronimo, Mantas Rommel Guiveses,
6th Degree Black Belt of the World
Sikaran Brotherhood of the United
States has started a class based on
what he learned from Supremo
Meliton C. Geronimo, and other senior
instructors of the World Sikaran
Brotherhood of the Philippines.
Mantas Guiveses' Sikaran
experience covers fighting, teaching,
and officiating tournaments.
He started training in the
martial arts in 1980 and became a
black belt in 1981.
His first experience in teaching
was in the City of Pasig where he
earned his Black Belt.
He taught Sikaran in Saudi
Rommel Guiveses, 6th Degree Black Belt, State
Director for New York (right) with Andy Sanano, 9th
Degree Red and White Belt, USA Country Director
and State Director for Florida.
Arabia for several years
before he came back to
the Philippines, where he
furthered his training in
Sikaran. He placed
Second in the LightHeavyweight Division
during the Second World
Sikaran Tournament held
in Manila in 1994.
While in the
Philippines, he was
certified as a Tournament
Referee. As a Referee, he
was very strict but fair and was sought after due to this trait.
In 2011, Rommel and his family migrated to the United States, settling in New York.
Rommel Guiveses, is a Referee who is
well-known for being strict but fair.
On Saturday, June 29, 2013,
Mantas Rommel Guiveses took time off
from work to attend the Second Annual
Sikaran Gathering, held in New Jersey.
The two-day affair, hosted by Mantas
Louelle Lledo, Jr., State Director of New
Jersey, and Mantas Andy Sanano, Jr.,
State Director of Florida marked the
membership of new Sikaran members
from various States.
SECOND ANNUAL SIKARAN GATHERING AND WORKSHOP
PROGRAM
SATURDAY 29 JUNE 2013
Prior to start: Light brunch of Pancit and Lumping Shanghai to be served by host regions
with beverage of soda, bottled water and coffee.
1:00 PM - Start of gathering - Master of Ceremonies Elpidio Seletaria
- Flag ceremonies - Stars and Stripes
Bayang Magiliw
Sikaran Hymn
-Invocation by: Matawguro Dr. Chris Viggiano
-Recitation of Sikaran Credo: English - Led by Elpidio Seletaria, Jr.
Filipino - Led by Jaime Geronimo
- Introduction of Guests: Swordstick Society:
Dr. Chris Viggiano - Shen Wu Dao Healing and Martial Arts
Dr. John Hsi Lee - White Crane Kung Fu Association
Sifu Andy Cappucio - Everspring Healing and Martial Arts
Sifu Keith Mazza - Traditional Wing Chun Kung Fu Academy
Special Guest - FMAPulse:
Publisher Michael Querubin
Publisher Jessie Santiago
Publisher Jennifer Querubin
Chairo-kan Bushi Shindo
Grandmaster Ed Brown
Mrs. Lilia Brown
World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines International Executive Council
Master Jaime Geronimo, Executive VP and Chief Instructor / Examiner
Mantas Louelle Lledo, New Jersey State Director
Mantas Andy Sanano, Florida State Director
Mantas Rommel Guiveses - New York State Interim Director
Mantas Elpidio Seletaria, International Coordinator
Mantas Emmanuel Querubin, Executive Technical Assistant to the GM
2:00 PM - Start of Workshop - turn over the floor to Mantas Emmanuel Querubin
4:00 PM - Discussion, Question, and Answer Session
6:00 PM Demonstration (maximum of 15 minutes)
Team Philippines
Team USA
8:00 PM Adjournment
SUNDAY - 30 June 2013
9:00 AM
Introduction of examinees:
Nebraska
South Dakota
Florida
Arkansas
North Dakota
Idaho
Alabama
Utah
New Jersey
Richard Lundy
Lee Fjelstad
Ben Geary
Greg Gonzales
Dennis Feller
Abel E. Colon
Roger Hudson
Carol Linn
Tom Collins
Niki Deas
Bruce Kulpaka
Andrew Muxen
Christian Herrera
Ronald Parente
David Mcmillan
John Magpantay
Marlon Hudak
Linda Roach
Introduction of Examiners;
Master Jaime Geronimo
Mantas Emmanuel Querubin
Mantas Louelle Lledo
Mantas Andy Sanano
Start of Black Belt Examination
12:00 NOON - Lunch break
1:00 PM - Resume Examination
4:00 PM - Evaluation of Examination and awarding of Certificates of Appreciation for
Participation and Congratulatory Certificates
5:00 PM - Meeting re 2016 Golden Jubilee of World Sikaran Brotherhood of the
Philippines
6:00 PM adjournment of the Second Annual World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines
Gathering presided by Mantas Louelle Lledo and Mantas Andy Sanano.
Rommel Guiveses demonstrating
Sikaran techniques.
On July 19, 2014, Marlon Hudak, Head Instructor of the Pinoy Dragon Sikaran School of
Jackson, New Jersey invited Mantas Louelle Lledo, Mantas Andy Sanano, and Mantas Rommel
Guiveses to hold a Sikaran and Arnis Seminar. Also invited was Richie Acosta of Kali, Kuntaw,
Kruzada of New York.
Mantas Rommel Guiveses showing the class
Sikaran and Arnis techniques.
Back row from left Tox Lledo, Marlon Hudak, Ron
Parente, Mantas Louelle Lledo, Richie Acosta,
Mantas Andy Sanano, Mantas Rommel Guiveses, and
David McMillan.
Longhaired Mantas Rommel Guiveses does the split. He trains in a New York City Park
to introduce and propagate Sikaran to the public.
ROMMEL GUIVESES PROMOTED TO THE TITLE OF MANTAS BATIKAN
7th DEGREE BLACK BELT
On Saturday, July 19, 2014 during a seminar held at the Pinoy Dragon Martial Arts
School of Marlon Hudak in Jackson, New Jersey, the first Sikaran real-time "electronic" Black
Belt Promotional Examination was held. The examinee (Rommel Guiveses) and two examiners
(Louelle Lledo, Jr., and Andy Sanano, Jr.) were in the East Coast, while three other examiners
(Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., Elpidio Seletaria, and Emmanuel Querubin) were in the West
Coast, about 3,000 miles away.
This real-time examination was made possible via "Skype."In the United States and
Canada, this type of real-time electronic communication is not a very big problem, since the
greatest time difference is only three hours. However, with the Philippines the time difference is
15 hours. In Saudi Arabia, the rime difference is 10 hours. There are also great time differences
with the other countries, in Asia, in the Middle East, and in Europe. While the examinees may be
wide-awake and active, the examiners may be sleeping and enjoying their dream, and vice-versa.
Rommel Guiveses showing Ron Parente how to
kick.
Rommel Guiveses sparring with Marlon
Hudak.
The use of modern technology was first used in a limited way during the examination for
first degree black belt of Kristine Lledo-Velasquez, and Kathlou Lledo. A movie was taken of
the two performing the requirements for black belt and they were graded through the movie.
The wider use of modern technology is anticipated, not only in promotional examinations
but also in teaching and during seminars. Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., is already planning to
hold a semi-annual seminar in the Philippines, while he is in the United States. This was tried
when a meeting with the senior members was held in Baras, Rizal, while Pantas Meliton S.
Geronimo was in the United States. Although the electronic reception was not very good, it was
successful.
Mantas Andy Sanano, Jr., Head Examiner for the United States reads
result of examination as Rommel Guiveses bows. Mantas Louelle Lledo,
Jr. watches approvingly.
Mantas Andy Sanano, Jr., Country
Director for the United States,
presents Certificate of Promotion to
the 7th Degree Black Belt to Mantas
Rommel Guiveses, New York State
Director.
CITY OF VALLEJO,
SIKARAN CAPITAL OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
By: Mantas Dalubhasa Elpidio Seletaria, Jr.
8th Degree Black Belt
World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines
International Coordinator
The City of Vallejo, was at one time the Capital of the State of California. Presently it is
the Sikaran Capital of the United States. It is the headquarters of the World Sikaran Brotherhood
of the Philippines, and the residence of Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., President of the WSBP.
It is also the site of the new Sikaran Training Center opened recently by the President.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., President of the World
Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines and City of
Vallejo Mayor Osby Davis (in Barong Tagalog).
The new Sikaran Central Gymnasium.
Just as he was trained at an early age, and
his father before him, Meliton, Jr. is
training his son Zach Ramsey at an early
age. In his Sikaran uniform, Zach has also
his own arnis sticks.
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. with
one of the fiesta organizers.
Vallejo Tinikling Dancers.
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. with some of
the Balintawak Arnisadors.
ORIGINAL BALANGKAS OF SIKARAN
BATAYANG BALANGKAS
FUNDAMENTAL PATTERNS
There are five basic patterns all involving the practice of the kicks in their basic form. All
the patterns are oriented for both right-handed and left-hand fighters. The pattern is executed on
a straight line, 3 steps forward, turn around and another 3 steps forward going the other direction
then turn around to assume original position. Open-hand blocks, foot blocks and hand techniques
are involved in the basic patterns.
SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
OF BATAYANG BALANGKAS
Ika 1 - ika 5
SIMULA
START / END
A
B
A
B
Ika-1 BATAYANG BALANGKAS
SIPARAP
(1st FUNDAMENTAL PATTERN – FRONT KICK)
1
2
3
4
5
Starting Position
6
7
13
8
14
15
9
10
16
Front View
11
17
12
Front View
18
Front View
Front View
22
19
Front View
Front View
23
Front View
25
27
28
20
29
Front View
21
24
Front View
26
30
Ending Position
31
STEPPING / TURNING INSTRUCTIONS:
Ika-1 BATAYANG BALANGKAS
Turn Steps 25-26
A
A
START / END
1st SET
From starting position steps 67-8-9-10-11-12-13-14 going
towards B then turn 180
degrees counter clockwise
going towards A Step 15
2nd SET
Turn Step 15
B
B
Steps 16-17-18-19-20-21-2223-24 going towards A then
turn 180 degrees counter
clockwise going towards
ending position Steps 25-26
Ika-1 BATAYANG BALANGKAS
1. Take your position in the middle of the arena and assume parallel toes stance.
2. Slide left foot next to right foot to assume open toes stance and bring right fist
on left palm.
3. Tip head about 10 degrees forward.
4. With right fist still on left palm bring head up and in a loud and clear voice
state the name of the balangkas.
5. Slide left foot to the left and assume parallel toes stance.
6. Inhale thru the nose and slowly exhale thru the mouth as you move left foot
forward towards B while executing a left open-hand middle outward
block.
7. Right front kick towards B.
8. Bring right foot forward and execute a right finger thrust towards B.
9. Execute a left finger thrust supporting left arm with right arm
10. Left front kick towards B.
11. Bring left foot forward and execute a left finger thrust towards B.
12. Execute a right finger thrust supporting right arm with left arm.
13. Right front kick towards B and bunyaw.
14. Bring right foot forward and look over your left shoulder.
15. Slide right foot to the left and pivoting on both feet turn 180 degrees counter
clockwise to the left towards A to assume left fighting stance at the same time
executing a left open hand middle outward block as you exhale through the
mouth.
16. Right front kick towards A.
17. Bring right foot forward and execute a right finger thrust towards A.
20. Execute a left finger thrust supporting left arm with right arm towards A.
21. Left front kick towards A.
22. Bring left foot forward and execute a left finger thrust towards A.
23. Execute a right finger thrust supporting right arm with left arm.
24. Right front kick towards A and bunyaw.
25. Bring right foot forward and look over your left shoulder.
26. Slide right foot to the left and pivoting on both feet turn 180 degrees counter
clockwise to the left towards B to assume left fighting stance at the same time
executing a left open hand middle outward block as you exhale through the
mouth.
27. Pull left foot backwards to assume parallel toes stance bringing open hands to
the sides.
28. Slide left foot next to the right foot to assume open toes stance and bring right
fist on left palm.
29. Tip head about 10 degrees forward.
30. Still with the right fist on left palm bring head up.
31. Slide left foot to the left and bring open hands to the sides.
MANTAS LOUELLE LLEDO IS BACK IN ACTION
By: Mantas Batikan Rommel Guiveses
7th Degree Black Belt
State Director of New York
On June 26, 2014, Louelle Lledo, Jr. went in the hospital for an ordinary colonoscopy.
Everything went well and they did not find any polyps. As he was dressing up, he collapsed and
had difficult time breathing and his stomach started ballooning up. X-ray showed that during his
colonoscopy his colon was ruptured. He was rushed back to the operating room for an
emergency procedure to fix the problem. His problem was fixed but he has to stay in the hospital
until July 5, 2014. A one-day visit to the hospital was extended to a ten day stay.
He was not able to train or teach for almost two months. He was also restricted to lifting
anything over 20 pounds. But now he is back in training uniform and in action.
Mantas Louelle Lledo, Jr. (middle) with his Amara Arkanis assistants. From left: David
McMillan, Marlon Hudak, Kahtlou Lledo, and Ron Parente.
FROM THE DESK OF THE EDITOR-AT-LARGE
Mantas Marangal Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.
9th Degree Red and White Belt
He is the son of Grandmaster Meliton C. Geronimo and the third
generation heir to the Geronimo Sikaran lineage. He came from the
line of Sikaran haris. His Grandfather, Cipriano Geronimo was the
last Hari of Baras, Rizal. His Great-grandfather Bonifacio
Geronimo, was the last Hari ng mga Hari. Grandmaster Meliton
Geronimo has issued a Legal Declaration, naming his son
Administrative Head and final authority of the World Sikaran
Brotherhood of the Philippines.
=================================================================
WSB - JUBAIL CHAPTERS, SAUDI ARABIA has now upgraded its training facility
with fully-air conditioned GYM for the convenience and comfort of the students and
guests. Also, KUDOS to the creator of the Sikaran worldwide website, which carry the
list of Senior Black Belts and worldwide Regional Chief Instructors. It resulted in new
enrollees for our club chapters, making Sikaran Jubail Chapters the only active and
surviving club in the area...George G. Salomon - Club Chief Instructor, Reg. #4012,
5DBB. Pugay!
Sikaran Arnis of Canada
Join us at the Fire Martial Arts and Fitness gym and learn Filipino Martial Arts with Punong
Guro Dastin Alambra. For more information contact Dastin at: dastin@sikaranarnis.net or
checkout our website: http://dastinalambra.wix.com/martialarts
Coming Important Events !
OFFICIAL PASSING OF THE TORCH 2015
On March 10, 2015, the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the
Philippines will celebrate the official passing of the torch and transfer of
authority as President, leader and master of the World Sikaran
Brotherhood.
Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo, will officially step down as
President and pass on the authority to his son Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., thereafter will be addressed as Sikaran Pantas
(Master) Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. He is promoted to a higher level 9th
Degree Red and White Belt. As President, he will have the final authority
in all and every affair of Sikaran, especially in the grade and rank
promotion.
Invited to this grand affair are all the Regional Country Directors,
State Directors, and Regional Directors. Rizal Provincial Officials, Baras
Municipal Officials, and Rizal Department of Education Officials are
also invited to witness this very important event in the history of Sikaran.
BONIFACIO GERONIMO
1847-1925*
Estimation based on reliable
information
No Picture Available at this time
CIPRIANO GERONIMO
1893-1993
MELITON C. GERONIMO
1927
O
MELITON S. GERONIMO, JR.
1959
WORLD SIKARAN BROTHERHOOD OF THE PHILIPPINES
GOLDEN JUBILEE AND HALL OF FAME 2016
By: Mantas Marangal Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.
9th Degree Red and White Belt # 697
President
On November 6, 2016, The World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines will celebrate
its golden anniversary. It was on November 6, 1966 when the Asian Karate Association,
composed of Japan, Korea, China and the Philippines recognized Sikaran as a distinct unarmed
fighting art of Filipino origin and named Meliton Geronimo Grandmaster with the rank of 10th
Degree Red Belt.
It is no coincidence that November 6, 1966 has a close harmonic connection to the
element of fire. November 6, 1966 is a Sunday, a holyday. In the Gregorian calendar, it is the
310th day of the year. There are 55 days remaining until the end of the year.
November 6, 1966 falls under the zodiac sign of Scorpio. The modern birthstone for this month
is Topaz.
The mythical animal representative of this date is the Horse. Interestingly, the first two
kicks of Sikaran were influenced by the horse. The front leg kick is called padamba in Sikaran
and the rear leg kick is called sipang kabayo.
In the very old art of astrology, fire is the element on this date. It is no surprise that when
Meliton C. Geronimo was born on March 10, 1927, the sphere of influence of his birth is the
element of fire.
Sikaran is like the element of fire. It is associated with energy, assertiveness, and passion.
Sikaran, like fire does not know fear or doubt. There are no mean tricks in Sikaran, and like fire,
it consumes everything on its path. Sikaran is an important part of Filipino culture and vital to
the development of Philippine civilization.
Fire stands for emotions free from restraint, such as love and happiness, but also hatred
and anger. Fire stands for fair fight. Fire does not need mean tricks or dirty techniques. Fire is the
element burning in your consciousness, moving you to fight for the things you believe in, in a
manner that is honest. Fire represents a vision, a quality, a conviction, as not only a commitment
but also a realization. If the Fire has caught something, it fights for it until it has consumed it or
has burned it down, destroyed it. It can be extinguished or it can extinguish by itself. Fire does
not know fear or doubt. It does not know mercy or shame. If it wants something, it will get over
everything on its path to get it. Fire also stands for inspiration, compassion, love, longing and
lust.
This jubilee will be marked by festivities worthy of this grand event. A Sikaran Hall of
Fame will be held in conjunction with the Golden Anniversary.
In 1966, the original plan was to invite the Grandmasters who were involved in the
recognition of Sikaran as a distinct fighting art from the Philippines on its 50th Anniversary. But
this will not be so. Grandmasters from Japan, Kyojiro Furusawa and Koichi Kondo have passed
away. Grandmasters Dr. Kwai Byeung Yun of Ji Do Kwan Kong Soo Doo, and Hwang Kee of
Moo Doo Kwan Tang Soo Doo of Korea have likewise passed away. With the dissolution of the
Asian Karate Association in 1970, we have lost contact with Chinese Grandmaster Chua Tiong
Ki, but there were unconfirmed reports that he too passed away. Only Grandmaster Meliton
Geronimo is still alive, albeit at 87th years old, he is suffering from the ill effects of several bouts
with stroke.
The only other master who is still alive and was part of the early age of Sikaran is Kim
Soo Jin, now 10th Degree Red Belt of Ji Do Kwan (now a part of Korean Tae Kwon Do).
From the early beginnings of Sikaran in the Philippines, it has now spread its wings in the four
corners of the world.
THE OTHER MASTER STILL AROUND DURING THE PROMOTION OF
MELITON C. GERONIMO TO GRANDMASTER 10th DEGREE RED BELT
Master Kim Soo Jin
Korean Ji Do Kwan SooBak Do (now Tae Kwon Do)
1966 -7th Degree Black Belt
2010 - 10th Degree Red Belt
The golden jubilee is still 2 years away but preparations are now being taken to insure
that it will be the greatest event in Sikaran until November 6, 2066, when Sikaran celebrates its
centennial or diamond anniversary.
Significant events took place on November 6, 1966. Of course everybody in the Sikaran
world are aware that it was on this important date that the Asian Karate Association recognized
Sikaran as a distinct Filipino art of fighting and declared Meliton C. Geronimo, Grandmaster of
Sikaran with the rank of 10th Degree Red Belt.
However, the recognition of Sikaran is not the only noteworthy occurrence of that day.
There are several events that took place in November 1966. Some were good, some were not so
good. Some changed the course of history, some changed people's life.
In China Chairman Mao Tse Tung launched China's Cultural Revolution and begun the
purging of the intellectuals who were against Mao's administration.
An earthquake in Turkey left 2,394 dead and thousands injured.
In India, Indira Gandhi was elected Prime Minister.
In the field of science, Soviet Union lands Luna 9 on the moon early in the year. A few
months later the United States followed by a soft moon landing of Surveyor I.
In the field of fashion, Miniskirts are in.
In the field of health, cigarette packets in the United States must carry the health
warning "Caution! Cigarette smoking may be hazardous to your health."
In the early part of 1966, Ronald Reagan enters politics becoming governor of California.
Bill Russell, became the 1st black coach in NBA history (Boston Celtics).
BOOK TWO
COMING SOON
RELEASED IN 2011….
SIKARAN INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO VOLUME 1
WRITTEN, PRODUCED, AND DIRECTED BY:
ELPIDIO SELETARIA JR.
8th DEGREE BLACK BELT (#1487)
Hercules, California, USA
www.sikaranarnis.com
COMING SOON…!!!
SIKARAN INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO VOLUME 2
(ADVANCED SIKARAN WITH DEFENSIVE TACTICS, ETC…)
To Order Contact:
ELPIDIO SELETARIA - jseletaria1542@yahoo.com
ARNIS BOOKS BY LOUELLE LLEDO, JR., 9th Degree Red and White Belt #326
To Order Contact: matawgurolou@yahoo.com
ARNIS DE MANO FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTS EDUCATION
TEACHER'S TRAINING HANDBOOK
By: TWO SIKARAN MANTAS
LOUELLE LLEDO, Jr. (# 326) and ANDY SANANO, Jr. (# 844)
TO ORDER CONTACT:
Louelle Lledo, Jr. - matawgurolou@yahoo.com
Andy Sanano, Jr. - matawgurosanano@gmail.com
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SIKARAN builds fitness
fitness builds confidence
confidence builds productivity
productivity builds a better citizen
a better citizen builds a better country
a better country builds a better and peaceful world
SIKARAN builds a fit, confident, productive, and better citizen
who builds a better country and more peaceful world
SIKARAN WORDS OF WISDOM
"to be a good leader, you have to be a good follower"