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 continuously throughout the world. Additionally, he has promoted the art of arnis continuously throughout the world since the 1970s. Awarded a 7th degree 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.

Guro Roland Dantes with the late Grandmaster Ben Lema of Lightning Scientific Arnis." Photo from the private collection of Taga Turo David Foggie

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.

Continuing, Guro Dantes grabs the wrist and twists down and inward.

Guro Dantes executes a stomping kick to the opponents’ knee.

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 self-defense. 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

fe.

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nte helped Grandmaster Presas's wife, who carried the Modern Arnis banner in the

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ach ther t ma.

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nd open up and drawing you into a

of ter Sanchez’s knowledge and experience one must spend 3 to 6 months of dedicated

training.

li 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 hisknowledge 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 ViceSanchez whoPhilippines.

During the filming of "Sticks of Death" also starriDantes, Vicente met another great Filipino martial artist. Grandmaster Benjamin Luna Lema of Lightning Scientific Arnis wasknown and respected as a great fighter proving his art time and time again. These two men built up a friendship and great respect for eo hrough the years, until the passing of Grandmaster Le To study with Grandmaster Sanchez is exciting and demanding, and a decision that if made will never be regretted. Witthe gracefulness of a dancer, coupled with the flowing movements like a well-rehearsed stage play, Grandmaster Sanchez through his instruction will impart upon you 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 Grandmas

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 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.

Kali Academy Class

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

h local and national

urnaments from Washington, DC to parts of South Carolina.

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title literally translated into English

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ivision e was also qualified as

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play a vital role in the management and day-to-day operation of Kuntaw Palace.

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 NortCarolina State Games, and a champion many times over in bothto Lakan Guro Bill Koss

William is a 4th Degree Black Belt with over tweyears 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 of “Lakan Guro”, which

Regional Chief. William graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor o

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 Daboard the U.S.S. Phoenix). H

wn Reactor Operator of the ship’s nuclear reactor. William’s experience and skills as a supervisor and Head Martial Arts Ins

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 foot fighting {Kuntaw}.

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.

Alice with her father

Grandmaster Carlito Lanada and Bill

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-y-Banda, 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 WBrotherhood of Modern Arnis

orldwide (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, Mano-Mano 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 awoman 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 instyle of Kung-Fu for four year. 1973 he joined Aikido under

a

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. 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.

She

Master Dodong Capistrano Aquinas University Legaspi, Kuntaw

Guro Michael Tuscano Guro Vincente Arias Guro Bert Ala Dayang Siony Capistrano Dayang Heidi Arias Guro Rogelio Desacula

Legaspi Port, Kuntaw Guro Julysses Belga Guro Julius Belga Guro John Rangel Guro Romulo Barrameda

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.

Master Dodong

demonstrating a combative techniques.

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. 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 REV. FR. SENEN R. ECLEO, O.P. Vice Rector for Finance Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City REV. FR. ALFREDO A. FERNANDEZ, O.P Asst. Treasurer Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City ENGR. VIRGILIO S. PERDIGON, JR. OIC Vice-Rector for Administration Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City DR. WALTER RANDOLPH JALGALADO SDS Director Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City

SIR JESUS BARIZO Moderator for Student Affairs - SDS Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City SIR REYNALDO BOBADILLA DPESF Director/OIC AQ Gymnasium Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City SIR RAFFY ROQUE Property Custodian Aquinas University of Legazpi Rawis, Legaspi City SIR ALVIN PEREZ Head, MIS-ITC 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 tmany styles that have sprung forth from the genius of ma

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and the Philippines and then

radually would turn to overseas in the International area.

s. The Council of Masters of Modern Arnis is the safe-keepe

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 t

generation. In the olden days, the masters were not adorned with belts or ranks; it was notnecessary. 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 underta

hening 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 theishare their experiences. They are:

- Senior Master Cristino Vasque- Senior Master Rene Tongson - Grandmaster Roberto Presas - Senior Master Rodel Dagooc - Senior Master Samuel Dula

It was in 1996 that Attorney Salvador P. Demaisip (a student himself of MoArnis) was approached by several factions of the art and came to realization that a Federation should be formed to ensure the promulgation

of Grandmaster Presas would become a reality. These groups wanted Attorney Demaisip to lead the Organization as Chairmanepted the challenge. There was an election of Officers and Board of Directors. With Attorney Demaisip experiences in management as a management consult

and being a practicing lawyed possibly succeed. With a foundation the organization commenced to promote the art of Arnis de

Mano, not only in the Philippines, but with a dreaas also the desire of Grandmaster Presas. So with the foundation formed, the IMAFP set into motion the fundamentals

formulated a mission to make Arnis an accepted art first in g

Chairman - Atty. Salvador P. Demaisip

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ublic Relations Officer - Guro Rodolfo N. Poblacion, Jr.

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home committee for the purpose of proposals that are planned in the Philippines).

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nal art of the Philippine culture, good physical exercise, and a simple self defense art.

Officers: President - Master Noel A. Peñaredondo Internal Vice President - Guro Renato L. Centro External Vice President - Master Samuel D. DSecretary/Treasurer - Guro GinalyAuditor - Guro Paulo O. Motita II P Advisers: Dr. Alejandro Dagdag DMaster Rene Tongson Councilor Julio Logarta Atty. Teresita N. Santo

Members: Professor Armando C. Soteco Senior Master Samuel D. Dulay Senior Master Cristino VasqueMaster Noel A. Peñaredondo Guro Rodolfo T. PoblGuro Jimson Dearos Guro Renato L. Centro Guro Paulo O. Motita I

Besides the Organizations; Office

• Membership Committee • Finance & Administrative Co• Special Projects Committee • Physical Reform Committee (A

At the beginning oment 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 joineand franchises were organized such as in Baguio City, Meycaua

d City, Hinigaran, Zamboanga, Davao, and Koronadal. This was all due to the professional attitude and management, with the investe

time and effort of the organization. The IMAFP through its promotion of the art has shown that it is a traditio

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 IMAF-Philippines 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 Instructor. Fascinated with Mano-Mano, locks, trapping, and the ground fighting aspects of the art he continuously would seek new ways to improve his knowledge.

Master Romy Lisondra first student

of Grandmaster Remy Presas

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.

Eventually in 2000, he became the Chief 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

Master Bambit Dulay

Headmaster Mike Vasquez

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 year-round 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 the difference between the modern and the traditional aspects of the Filipino culture. To understand the values of 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.

Protagonist Jimmy Smith in “Fight Quest” with

Master Bambit student. L-R: Jimson Dearos, Cocoy Oyales, Jeff Plotria,

and Senior Master Cris Vasquez.

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, Mano-

Mano, 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.

Ramon Tulfo, Bakbakan’s Public Relations Officer and noted columnist, practices his

dodging techniques against Peachie’s kicks.

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.

Conducting the classes were Masters Christopher Ricketts and Tony Diego. I 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 and gave me a good mentor and a solid, supportive group.

Peachie undergoing focus mitt training

with Chief Instructor Christopher Ricketts

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 counter strikes. The purpose of this exercise, 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.

Peachie Baron-Saguin training with Master Tony Diego

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 Max M. Pallen

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.

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 iLabangon 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.

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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 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 Eskrimencourages 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.

Student and enthusiast of the art.

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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, Hawabut Max decided to go to C

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arts instructors’ camp. Professor Pallen and Grandmaster Remy Presas were also featured

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 tcombat style of self-defense. In addition, Professor Pallecontinued 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 seveKali, 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 M

hilippines. In 1973 Professor Pallen, as a certified Modern Arnis instructor and first Modern

Arnis California Commissioner established the first Modern Arnis (Philippine martiaSchool in downtown, Oakland, California, 1974 Professor Pallen was the ExecutiveProducer 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

arrived from the Philippines in 1975, with the assistant of the Filipino CommunityDuring 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

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 frgrandfather 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.

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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

FMA Convention 2008

L - R: Robert Klampfer, Dr. Remy Presas Jr, Grandmaster Bobby Taboada, Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje, Jeff Soriano, John Soriano

Grandmaster Bobby Taboada, Grandmaster Bob

Silver Tabimina, and Sam Buot

The Balintawak Arnis Cuentada Method

Balintawak Arnis Cuentada Focuses on the use of a single stick and empty hands, concentratingon close range fighting tactics, and can be classified as a "modern system’, a composite of several fighmethods, as opposed to the ancient and classical methods.

ting

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 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.

Mr. Serafin Aquino

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.

Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

(University of the City of Manila)

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 Education.

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. Any Bachelor’s degree holder or undergraduate and/or: 2. P.E. Teachers 3. With Basic knowledge in Arnis 4. 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 NCPE-PLM (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 Presas-Butler, Demetrio Jose P. Presas, and Rosemary Pascual (Adviser, Philippines).

as

(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 westablished 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 Mano-Mano 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 Solatorio, Ceasar Turingan and Family, Rogelio Vasquez and Family, and Jerome Lagahit.

Punong Lakan Garitony Nicolas

Websites

MAMFMA

Dedicated to the Filipino Martial Arts and the Culture of the PhilippinesSpecial Issue

2010

School of the Year 2010Magdaraog 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 Mag-daraog Zen Aikido Jutsu Ryu and Armas y Mano Magdaraog Sys-tem. 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 weap-ons. And it has been used in Mag-daraog 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 prin-ciples 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 disci-pline that has been here for many Due to the rain, the cement was slippery,

so instructors spread dirt on the cement to obtain traction in movement.

2008

years; a martial art that has sur-vived 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 avail-able 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 train-ing of dedication, determination, and so on… the Armas Y Mano Magdaraog System”. The essence of the Mag-daraog system training is from the teachings, training and practice in the art of Zenaikiojutsu, a student must have the basic of that sys-tem. 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 train-ing. 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

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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

Armas Y Mano Magdaraog Martial Arts System

Master Ariel Dacillo and Master Charlie Austria demon-strated 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.

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 dem-onstration, 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 train-

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ing. And they have to pass tests to prove their worth. In talking to the senior stu-dents they have different percep-tions. 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 ac-quired”. Yet they decline. Masters and Instructors are all living in nearby locality. They are all in the Bicol Region, Al-bay to be specific. At the moment there are 5 Masters, but one was expelled the other one is “Float-ing” 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 certi-fication with the Bible and Instruc-tors Manual of the system that they would be teaching.

Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2008

2009

Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2009

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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

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Organization of the Year 2010

Mission The United States Filipino Martial Arts Federation is a non-profit 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 mar-tial arts.

The USFMAF is a growing organization and as with all orga-nizations that are growing rapidly there have been and will be dif-ficulties and hurdles to overcome. They have learned from their suc-cesses and failures and continue to strive to present the best Filipino martial arts competition platform. They invite all like-minded indi-viduals to join them. By joining the Federation you are supporting an Organiza-tion that will provide excellent seminars and specialized training sessions throughout the United States by Masters and Grand-

Darren Tibon, President of USFMAF

masters representing a variety of Filipino styles. Those members in good standing at the time of regis-tration will be entitled to a major-ity of USFMAF sponsored events. The USFMAF tournaments could not be successful without trained judges/referees and vol-unteers. They have an elite crew who has volunteered their time in all their past and future tourna-ments 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 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 be-ing 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 recog-nized. As much as he was coaching his students on the various differences and techniques to counter offensively and defensively, he was also analyzing the judg-

ing 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.

By Steven K. Dowd

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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.

USFMAF was first introduced in October 2006 at the Disney Night Showcase.

In 2006, the USFMAF went to Disney’s Martial Arts Festival and did a demonstration in the Saturday Showcase to introduce the Fili-pino martial arts to this circuit. This was broad-casted 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 USF-MAF idea and their students felt the divisions they competed in were very well judged and refereed and they continue to support USF-

In 2009 a new division was introduced in the USFMAF “The Cultural Chal-lenge”. 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 re-spected 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.

MAF. Mr. Tibon stated, “We of this federation are about doing everything for the right reason most of all com-petitors 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.

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.

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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

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Master of the Pen 2010 Marc Lawrence By Steven K. Dowd

In his late twenties while working at a refinery he met an older Filipi-no 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 father-in-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 fac-tory where he worked, they would met and practice out in the mainte-nance yard behind the SEA con-tainers. 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 Law-rence’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 Fili-pino pride with his children, family and friends. Marc started writing stories and history he had collect-ed. 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 writ-ing 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, inter-view 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 No3Special Issues- Young Practitioners III - Keeping Tradition Alive in Torrance - Disneyland Martial Arts Festival Anaheim, CA. 2009Special 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 Weap-onry - FMA Daga II - Basic Knife Fighting

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- Philippine Weaponry - Entire IssueMini 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 Fili-pino martial arts competition.