Preparing for our 14th arnis tournament

 

Tomorrow’s the day of the Arnis Pasindo’s 14th tournament.

Oh wow, is it really the 14th now? I shake my head with amusement and disbelief because we’re a small group and except for Master Cris Pasindo who is a full time Arnis-Eskrima instructor, we are all amateurs with other day jobs.

Organizing a tournament is no easy task I tell you. You have to take care of a  million details. Over the years, we have learned a lot about how to do things.  It’s still difficult but compared to when we first started, it’s much better now.

Here are some behind the scenes stories.

 

Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City, Philippines

The Venue. Thankfully, we’re based in Quezon City and we have the Quezon Memorial Circle (a 22-hectare public park in the center of the city).

We wanted the basketball court because it’s bigger but we couldn’t afford it so we settled for the Volleyball Court and paid the reservation fee several months back.

Less than three weeks before the date we reserved, we were informed that the former mayor wanted to use all the courts on that day. Hmmp! Of course we didn’t want to move our date because all our invitations have been sent out.  Well… no choice. We realized that that’s the way things are. They needed the court so… we moved.

11/29/15. Master Cris (in brown) with some Arnis Pasindo members and friends on the last meeting and dry run for the 14th tournament.

The Officials. One of the difficulties we always have is estimating how many athletes will participate. That information will determine a lot of things, the most important of which is, how many referees and judges we would need.

In the  last tournament, there were more participants than we expected so the officials worked almost non-stop.  I think it was in the 6th tournament that we had more officials than athletes.

We always encourage people to register early, even giving them the incentive of a discount if they did. But only a few do so.

We usually hold our tournaments on Sundays but since we had to move to Saturday, we don’t know how many will be able to participate tomorrow. So, I think Master Cris made a lineup of twelve referees and judges (we’ll be having two courts).

The Finances: By far the biggest chunk of the expenses go to salaries. With all the hard work they do, you have to at least give the officials and staff fair wages.

Every tournament, we pay around 35 people (judges, referees, table committee members, scorers, timers, armorers) And that’s already lean. Our security marshals, housekeeping, medic, set up and clean up people, are all volunteers.

Aside from the salaries, you have to pay for the venue,  food and drinks for the officials and staff, padded sticks, medals, trophies, certificates, etc, etc.

So far, we have no financial support from any national sports group like Philippine Sports Commission or Arnis Philippines.  Maybe in the future this will change. I hope soon.

A few friends and some local government officials who understand our advocacy of advancing Filipino Martial Arts help us financially and they are very much appreciated.

But most of the expenses are shouldered by our group — small amounts put together and managed well accomplish a lot.

There are many more stories and one of these days, I’ll write about them. But for now, I have to go back to my own preparations for tomorrow. Just like the other Arnis Pasindo members, I will multitask.

1. Member, Food Committee: Make sure that special guests (Grandmasters), officials, and staff are fed and hydrated.
2. Member, Documentation Committee: Make a report of the whos and whats of the day.
3. Medic.

Ok, bye for now.

Pugay.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There is always something there to remind me

“This is not good,” I told myself. “I probably should go back to Filipino Martial Arts training soon.”

You see, I was in a church service tonight, and was only vaguely hearing what the pastor was saying because I was so distracted. First, it was the pen in his shirt pocket.  I thought of the long list of  lethal moves I could do with it. Then his microphone, another long list. And then the mic stand….

I’ve burned out and it’s been almost two months now that I’ve pulled back from FMA training and all other related activities. (Check out my earlier post I’m tired of Filipino Martial Arts.)

During this break, I realized that I can’t completely shut off FMA. Remember that catchy 1960’s song “There is always something there to remind me” by Burt Bacharach and Hal David? It’s true of FMA.

I go to a book store and spot a knife book.

It’s kitchen book alright but that hold can very well be ours. 

I go to a hardware store

and find walking sticks

and knives.And don’t let me get started on the mall’s kitchen section: weapons are just too many to mention!

I sit at a doctor’s waiting room and get mesmerized by the pens and scissors on the secretary’s table. I eat lunch and remember the farmers’ bolos cutting palay.   I see a flag and think of Lapu-lapu, Andres Bonifacio, and Diego Silang.

There’s really no escaping. FMA is and will always be a part of my life and unless I want to think of lethal moves in church again, I better start getting small doses of FMA soon.

We’ll see what happens.

I’m tired of Filipino Martial Arts

Sometimes, even I find it hard to believe  that less than two years ago, I didn’t care a bit about Filipino Martial Arts. I didn’t care because I knew next to nothing about it. Sure, I knew that Arnis (as Filipino Martial Arts is popularly called here) was the Philippines’ “new” national sport replacing sipa, and that it used sticks as weapons. But that was it.

Now if you let me enumerate all the things I love, FMA would be easily included. It has helped me become fit and healthy and confident. It has introduced me to worlds that I never knew existed before.

FMA made me happy.

But somehow these past few weeks have been different. I seem to have lost the spark. The excitement and hunger diminished and the emotions were no longer raw. Whereas before, I looked forward to every training session, reveled in it, and then went home only to read and watch some more, now even my FMA Facebook remain mostly closed.   I’m bored, uninterested, and tired.

My rational mind labels this weariness as burnout.

burn.out

:the condition of someone who has become very physically and emotionally tired after doing a job for a long time (Merriam-Webster)

Well, although my case is probably mild, I know that that’s what I have. And because I know the diagnosis, I also know the cure.

I. need. a. break.

That’s why my sticks and blades quietly rest in their cases now.

In the meantime, I rest, run, and do strengthening exercises. Sometimes though,  when I do arm exercises I long for my weapons…

But the longing is not enough to make me take them out of their cases. Not now, not yet.

I’m on vacation.

I’m sure I’ll eventually come back.

But for now,  I rest.

Karambit

“What’s that, a can opener?”

“No… it’s a… neck opener, haha!”

That was an exchange between two of my arnis friends when I recently showed them my new karambit training knife.

“Well, it’s a neck opener alright… and an eye gouger, tendon cutter,  etc., etc., “ we said with a chuckle as only martial artists would considering the gory scenario.

Anyway, I got interested with karambits because my blogger friend, Fia posted hers. And then during the latest Arnis Pasindo tournament, KAMAO’s combat demonstration used karambits.

So, I ordered one from Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc. I think it’s a bit large for me but Master Cris said it’s fine for training purposes.

Full Length: 7 1/2″ Handle: 4″ Long, 3/4″ Thick Blade: 3″ Long 1/4″ Thick Materials: Aluminum ( Blade ) , Kamagong ( Handle )

Anyway, Master Cris said that karambits are similar to the curved and traditionally bigger blade, the sanggot.

He added that when he was still in Davao, they used the sanggot to harvest coconuts, cut palay, and chop banana tree trunks for pig feed.  The curved blade lessened their wrist fatigue. They usually used the foregrip and did not hook their fingers into the finger ring.  The ring was mainly for the cord they tied to the scabbard on their waist.

Anyway, how did my first day of karambit practice go? Totally enjoyable!

Here I am practicing six different grips.

It felt familiar yet new. Familiar because it’s a blade and I know blades but it’s new because the curve, the two edges, and the ring allowed different technique applications.

Master Cris added a brief warning:“Be careful with the finger ring. It can prevent you from dropping your karambit but if you don’t watch out, it can also fracture your finger.”

Okay.

On with my moves…

SLASH! HOOK! PUNCH! JAB! PUNCTURE! CUT! RIP!  The karambit felt like a claw and brought out my animal instincts! Cat woman, Arnis version!

Grrrrrrrr!

Totally cool, I must say. Oh yeah!! 🙂

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Thank you for taking time to read The Deadly Dance. Pugay!

Interesting reads from around the web:

• Getting tuba using a sanggot
• Sanggot vs. show machete

 

How can we improve the state of FMA in the Philippines? The Grandmasters suggest three ways

 

The Unity Photo. Seated, from left: Roberto Labaniego, Jerry dela Cruz, Rodel Dagooc, Sioux Glaraga, Henry Espera. Standing, from left: Rommel Tortal, Rico Acosta, Samuel Bambit Dulay, Jun Eufracio, Roger Vega, Martin Raganas Jr, Crisanto Pasindo, Dominic Guadiz, Mon Kiathson, Roger del Valle, Mio Cusi, Von Altas

 

THE BACKGROUND

In August 2013, seven FMA grandmasters got together for lunch in Manila, Philippines. It was light and informal and there was no agenda except to keep in touch. (To read my article about that, click here.)

Ten months later, they gathered again along with a few more. They met in that same chicken and rice restaurant because it’s in Luneta where most of the grandmasters held their Sunday trainings.

Master Cris Pasindo, the head of our group Arnis Pasindo, was the organizer and he requested his adviser, GM Rodel Dagooc to do the inviting.

THE EVENT

Not all who were invited were able to come.

Here’s the list of those who attended, surnames alphabetically arranged.

1. Maestro Rico Acosta (Kredo Kuntaw Kali)
2. GM Jeremias dela Cruz (Arnis Cruzada)
3. GM Rodel Dagooc (Dagooc Arnis System)
4. GM Samuel Dulay (Modern Arnis Tapi-tapi)
5. GM Henry Espera (Rapido Realismo Kali)
6. Maestro Sioux Glaraga (Kalaki Arnis)
7. GM Mon Kiathson (IACKFP-KMAAP)
8. GM Bert Labaniego (LSAI/Top Labaniego)
9. GM Martin Raganas, Jr. (Ilustrisimo)
10. Tuhon Rommel Tortal (Pekiti-Tirsia Kali)
11. GM Roger del Valle (del Valle System)
12. Senior Master Roger Vega (Modern Arnis)

From left, Grand Masters Rodel Dagooc, Bert Labaniego, and Jerry dela Cruz

Uncle and nephew: Maestro Sioux Glaraga and Tuhon Rommel Tortal

A few members of the Arnis Pasindo group, Mio, Von, Rowena,  Benjie, Jun, Dom, Mai, Iza, and me, were there to help out.

THE DISCUSSION

The plan was for GM Rodel to lead the discussion but maybe he was tired from training that he assigned Master Cris to do it.

So Master Cris stood up and posed a question,

How can we improve the state of FMA in the Philippines?

I thought that the question was broad and profound and I readied my pen to take down notes.

The grandmasters talked somewhat formally but were generous with their ideas. After a while, I realized that they were all saying essentially the same things:

1. Respect each other. Each style or group has its own strengths and weaknesses.

2. Agree on a standard so that not just anyone can give or receive a rank.

3. Think of a plan how to implement the Arnis law. Waiting for the government or the national sports commission to act may be futile.

They then said that someone would spearhead the formation of technical committees so that things can move along. That person or group should have the will and humility to seek what is best and not try to promote their own interests.

That is the billion-dollar question.

Who?

I’m scratching my head for the answer.

THE CONCLUSION…FOR NOW

The grandmasters have given their simple but painfully challenging ideas. I guess it’s up to the younger generation to work on it.

I don’t think I can spearhead anything yet but I’ll support any genuine step. Time to have serious talks…

What are your thoughts on this?

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Thank you for taking time to read The Deadly Dance.

Grandmaster, what’s going to happen to your group when you die?

I’m sorry to be so blunt about it, GM. But death is inevitable and I’m wondering if you’ve ever thought of how your group will be after you passed on.

Death is a taboo subject for many Filipinos but it’s constantly on my mind these days because over the past few months there have been too many deaths in our family: first, my cousin Mauro, 65, then my Uncle Rod, 82 and then my cousin Dante, 76.

And then the other day, an FMA master posted a very insightful Facebook commentary about a controversy in their group: Their grandmaster died and now several people claim that they are the rightful heir. He said, “I can’t begin to tell you how many of my martial brethren stress over heir related issues.”

Death is a reality. It’s going to happen whether we accept it or not.

Yes…

So… what now?

I dare say to all of us: prepare to die.

Those who are prepared to die are most prepared to live. -Anonymous-

Please allow me to share my two cents’ worth:

Prepare your spirit. Think about your beliefs about death and do what you have to do.

Prepare your finances. It’s sad when Grandmasters who have dedicated their lives to FMA die in poverty. I hope I heard wrong but is it true that during the last days of his life, GM Antonio Illustrisimo wandered like a pauper in Luneta and Quiapo? And then when he died, he was buried in an unmarked tomb?  Is that just a cruel rumor? I hope so. Because if it’s true, then it’s really depressing. Please, what can we do to prepare in this aspect?

Prepare your group: First, write down who you are and what you do. A hundred years from now, you and your work will still be accurately remembered if there’s a written record. (This is why, among others, I really appreciate FMA Informative and authors like GM Mark Wiley for the wealth of knowledge they are preserving for all of us.)

Second, I think it’s best for the grooming of  successor(s) to start while a GM is still active because it takes time to mentor. You need energy to make sure that your core values, style, and vision are caught. It’s not cloning but just making sure that what you have worked hard for will not die with you. I’m sure this can be difficult but I think it’s better to stress about it now while you are still around to control egos.

In the end, I join the Psalmist in saying,

Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Amen.

What are your thoughts on this? Please share them in the comment section below because now’s a good time as any to talk about death.

I sincerely wish you all well. Pugay!

-Joy-

P.S. Thank you for taking time to read The Deadly Dance 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

How many Filipino Martial Arts can you name?

Yesterday I can name only eight, with difficulty. Now, 20 easily.

Thanks to my new, big, and heavy coffee table book, The Way of the Warrior: Martial Arts and Fighting Styles from Around the World by Chris Crudelli, 2008.

Reading an overview of the hundreds of martial arts from all over the world and seeing the beautiful, well chosen photos made me feel like an eager student again — I took down notes!

Although I suspect that Crudelli’s list may not be 100% complete, he discussed 20 FMAs and that’s 100% good enough for me.  Afterall, where else can I find such a list?

For that, I’ve decided that this is now one of my favorite martial arts books.

Well, classmates, would you like to look at my notes?

Name and Explanation	Date of Origin and Founder	Notes
1.    Balintawak Named after a street in Cebu	1950s, Venancio Bacon	Motto: economy, elegance, strength, and speed” Influenced by the Doce Pares systems Also known as Balintawak Eskrima Developed from the founder’s experience of fighting death matches
2.   Buno “To throw” or “to kill” in Tagalog	Indigenous art, No known founder	A wrestling art similar to Dumog (see below) Has throwing techniques with controlled locks, joint manipulations, strikes, ground wrestling, and takedowns Also has weapons like knives, spears, bows and arrows
3.    Dumog “Brawling” in Tagalog	Indigenous art, No known founder	A wrestling art Often taught alongside Eskrima (see below) Techniques – unbalancing techniques, weight systems, and joint locks many of which can be performed from the clinch position  Somewhat similar to western wrestling and the weight shifting principles of Aikido Head- often used as a lever (“where the head goes, the body follows”)
4.    Escrido Filipino Mixed Martial Art	1980s, Ciriaco Canete	Has Eskrima stick, sword, and knife fighting techniques with locks and takedowns commonly found in jujutsu Covers all fighting distances from long- and medium-range, to close quarter and grappling Trains with one or multiple attackers
5.   Eskrima       From “Esgrima”, meaning “Fencing” in Spanish	Indigenous art, No known founder	Emphasis- weapons based-training followed by empty hand movements Battle-proven techniques Also known as Escrima, Kali, or Arnis Uses any method that might work in a fight like hand and foot strikes,  grappling, throwing, and shoving Common weapons – solo stick, double stick, sword and stick, stick and dagger Some systems specialize in other weapons  like whip, staff, and projectile weapons Footwork generally follows a triangular pattern
6.    Espada y Daga “Sword and dagger” in Spanish	16th Century, No known founder	Have roots in Spanish swordsmanship Stronger hand usually holds the longer weapon Weaker hands fends off and stabs with the shorter weapon Footwork is usually geometric
7.    Gokusa   A mix of Kuntao and Balintawak	1960s, Jose “Ju Go” Millan (A student of Anciong Bacon, a well known Filipino stickfighter)	Emphasis – shifting body weight and aligning the spine correctly Has 12 strikes and defenses
8.    Jendo “The economical new fist way” in Tagalog	1973, Jonathan Makiling	Empty hand techniques plus traditional Filipino weapons like stick and knives Recognized in 1996 as a Filipino Martial Art by the Philippine Sports Commission Central philosophy – “tres energies” or three forces: the forces of normal, the unexpected, and the exceptional
9.    Kadena de Mano“Chain of hand” in Tagalog	Indigenous art, No known founder	Combines empty hand and knife techniques Most important aspects- combination techniques and reaction flow Usually a series of short, fast movements delivered with both hands and elbow serve as simultaneous blocks and strikes
10. Kali Sikaran Filipino empty hand martial art	Indigenous art, No known founder	Blends indigenous stickfighting, empty hands techniques with fencing techniques introduced by the Spanish
11. Kombatan Filipino Mixed Martial Art	1970s, Ernesto Presas	Largely based on the teachings of the founder’s brother Remy Mixes Eskrima, eclectic elements of judo, karate, jujutsu and Japanese and Filipino weapons systems Also influenced by Espada y Daga, Dumog, Bangkaw, Sinawali and Palit-palit Well known for its double stick techniques Highly organized collection of diverse techniques – stickfighting, knife fighting, grappling, throwing, chokes, holds
12. Kuntaw “Sacred strike” in Tagalog“Kuntaw” is a generic name for hand and foot fighting techniques	Indigenous art, No known founder	One of the oldest fighting systems in the Philippines Contains a number of open-hand and foot-striking combinations and holds and locks Has a complex system of hitting vital points like nerve centers and sensitive bones
13. Kuntaw Lima-lima “Complete sacred strike” in Tagalog	1950s, Carlos Lanada	Also known as Kuntaw Arnis Heavily influenced by kuntaw Uses hands, feet, elbows, stick, and dagger “Lima” (or “five”) – number of weapon forms used by brown belt or higher lever practitioners “Lima lima” means “complete” 25 Basic moves: 5 strikes, 5 thrusts, 5 blocks, 5 disarms, 5 locks
14. Lameco Eskrima  Stick and dagger martial art	1980s, Edgar Sulite	Heavily influenced by Eskrima systems taught by Jose Caballero and Antonio Ilustrisimo. Main weapon – “baston“  which varies in length, weight, and thickness, according to the preference of the practitioner Other weapons – stick and dagger, daggers, sword, staff
15. Modern Arnis    Stickfighting art	1960s, Remy Presas	A self defense system that is holistic, friendly, and injury free yet still preserved many of the traditional Filipino fighting techniques Emphasis – correct body alignment  and shifting before  striking Has 12 striking techniques Also has the stick and knife training of espada y daga
16. Pangamut “Unarmed fighting” in Tagalog	Unknown, No known founder	Has grappling, hand strikes, kicks, leg sweeps, foot traps, biting, gouging Sticks, knives, daggers skills taught Teaches weapon techniques with an empty hand
17. Sagasa      “Running over” in Tagalog	20th Century,     Guillermo Lengson (of the Philippine Karate Federation)	A kickboxing art Techniques – boxing, arnis weapon fighting, throwing, striking, grappling “Bakbakan” – a subsystem that favors full-contact sparring as primary training method
18. Sikaran      “To kick” in Tagalog	Indigenous art, No known founder	A kickfighting martial art Resembles karate Predates the arrival of the Spanish Probably developed by farmers Signature move: “biakid” — player pivots his body in a somersault movement, flailing one leg in a vertical arc over his head Two kinds of attack: “panghilo”, a paralyzing blow usually aimed at the thighs, kidneys, chest, knees, or feet “pamatay”, a lethal blow to the neck, head, groin, heart, or spine
19. Suntukan         “Boxing” in Tagalog	Unknown, No known founder	Involves empty hand, flowing, and striking drills which include chopping maneuvers and close range “chaining” where punches flow naturally in short bursts
20. Yaw-yan  “Dance of death” in Tagalog	1972, Napoleon Fernandez (a well-known kickboxing champion from Quezon Province)	An external fighting style (driven by speed and muscle power) Follows many muay thai principles but differs in its downward cutting kicks and its hip-torquing motions Has 40 basic kicks Training usually full contact sparring using elbows, knees and shins Has grappling and throwing techniques Also trains in weapons mainly bolos, machete and balisong (butterfly knife)

Pretty cool, right?

Well, what do you think of this list? Did you know all 20?

Pugay 🙂

Report: 8th Arnis Pasindo Tournament (Philippines)

Oh wow, have you seen the latest issue of FMA Informative? Not yet? Well, check it out my friends because it’s great— I have a photo there, haha.

Seriously, it’s about the tournament our club organized last December. Despite initial setbacks, the tournament turned out really well.

Here’s an excerpt:

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are. – Theodore Roosevelt

That’s exactly what the organizers, officials, coaches, and athletes did during the 8^th Arnis Pasindo Tournament in Quezon City, Philippines held in December 2013 despite disheartening setbacks (Typhoon Haiyan) and the alleged anomalies in the Philippine Sports Commission.

Master Cris said,

If we wait for things to be ideal before we move, then we may never have a tournament. So let’s just have faith and carry on.

When there’s a will, there’s a way. The tournament pushed through.

The numbers: 36 officials, 8 Grandmasters, 5 Combat Arnis demonstrations, 15 clubs, 135 athletes, 34 categories (8 for Anyo, 26 for Full Contact), 102 medals, 6 trophies.

Standing: Master Cris Pasindo
Seated from left: GM Vicente Sanchez (Kali Arnis International), Roberto Labaniego (Top Labaniego/LSAI), GM Rodel Dagooc (Dagooc Arnis System), GM Tony Vasquez (Dulac Martial Arts), GM Ricardo Saballe, Jr. (Baskapada), GM Mon Kiathson (Arnis Combat Kiathson System).
Not in photo: Grandmaster Frank Aycocho (Aycocho Martial Arts), Mataw Guro Virgo Villareal (Philippine College of Criminology)

LSAI Bigay Tama (Double vs. Single Baston) Demonstration by Senior Master Romeo Santos and son Guro Ronnel Santos

The Anyo competitions, an audience favorite, came first. Although the younger ones were expectedly a bit awkward, the rhythmic gracefulness of Arnis still shone through.

The older athletes were more agile and dramatic in their execution. Attacks and counterattacks in dance form was a sight to behold and reminded everyone that Arnis is a very beautiful martial art.

After lunch came the more intense Labanan (Full Contact Sparring Competitions). That’s when everybody really came alive. Spectators cheered, applauded, and shouted anxious encouragement.

The sound of padded sticks loudly whacking the body protectors, the referees’ precise hand signals, the Tagalog words they use like Handa, laban! (Ready, fight!), Hiwalay! (Separate!), Hinto! (Stop!), Hatol (Decision!), and the mesmerizing movements of the judges’ red and blue flags added to the intensity of the moment. Arnis is such a heart-pounding sport!

In the end, the 8^th Arnis Pasindo Tournament gave everyone a great day playing a great sport by just doing what they could, with what they had, where they were. All is good, very good.

Overall Champion: Taguig City University

Congratulations to all. Mabuhay!

Watch out for the 9th Arnis Pasindo Tournament coming in March 2014.

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• This is an excerpt from FMA Informative Issue110.  To read the full report (tournament officials, participating clubs, winners, etc.) please click here. Thank you 🙂
• The 7th Arnis Pasindo Tournament was FMA Informative Issue 87. Check it out here.

Samples of this blog’s posts that got included in the FMA Informative newspaper:

• Six life lessons I learned from  the Filipino Martial Arts FMA Informative Newspaper Vol2 No8 -2013, page 5
• Nine reasons why your brand should sponsor Arnis tournaments in the Philippines. FMA Informative Newspaper vol.2 No.9-2013, page 32. 

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Photo Credits: Stix Arnis, Mr Joseph Nebrida, and Mr Jamin Lim

My hubby passed out and I’m a suspect

Hubby gave me a scare last week. I really thought he was having a stroke when in the middle of the night he suddenly fell unconscious while peeing. I rushed him to the hospital and after tests and half a day in the Intensive Care Unit, doctors declared that it was just a case of Micturation Syncope (fainting during urination caused by a stimulation of a certain nerve that caused the blood pressure and heart rate to drop). Thank God. Whew!

What’s funny was the next day,  one of his buddies asked him,

Are you sure you didn’t feel a rattan stick on your head before you passed out? Nothing personal, but we have to consider all possibilities, you know. “

LOL! How many husbands get to be asked that??

So funny. 🙂

New Arnis Pasindo Tournament Rules

Things are looking up for Arnis tournaments. At least that’s what we think about the Arnis Pasindo tournaments because…drumroll please… we have NEW tournament rules! Tadah!

We”ll have the first taste of it on our March 9, 2014 tournament. (The other two tournaments will be in August and November 2014.)

Spearheading the change is Master Cris Pasindo, “I learned a lot from organizing and closely observing our past tournaments. I saw what needed to be changed.”

Last Sunday, January 12, there was an orientation and training of officials and coaches about the new rules.

Master Cris explaining why new rules are necessary

Here’s what he said:

• To lessen the risk of injury. In our eight tournaments, we brought two players to the hospital, one with scrotal injury and the other, exhaustion. Thankfully, they turned out okay but we don’t want those to ever happen again 
  
• To safeguard against cheating
• To make tournaments more understandable even to those who don’t practice Arnis
• To lessen scoring confusion
• To showcase traditional Arnis. We want to encourage athletes to learn Filipino Martial Art without mixing it with other martial arts.

Master Ryan Gialogo, head coach of KAMAO clarifies some points with the Rules Commitee, Dayang Rowena Nacario, Master Cris Pasindo, and Master Francisco Pajo

No more higher points for head strikes to avoid confusion — what do you mean by head, just the top? What about ears or face? So the new rule: One hit, one point

Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc, the adviser and main encourager on these new rules,  demonstrates moves  athletes need to develop. With him is Guro Mon Mirano

Master Cris who’s fluent in Tagalog and Bisaya, probably doesn’t realize that his shirt can have double meaning 🙂

Coach Doyle Bautista of Arkado Antipolo shows Anyo moves that will no longer be allowed: throwing and twirling of batons like a majorette, fancy jumps and rolls, etc

Mini tournament to practice the rules

Senior players almost forgetting that in a dry run, strikes need not be VERY forceful 🙂

Masters Pajo and Teddy Rosales practicing referee hand signals

Graduation photo

Master Cris has decided that the March 2014 tournament’s participants will be limited to those whose coaches attended the seminar. “We don’t want confusion and disagreements on tournament day. We would respectfully invite the others to join the next tournaments, but for this very first testing of the new rules, we need to keep it small.”

Okay, I accept that.

It’s going to be a lean and mean tournament then.

With the vision of having safer, cleaner, and clearer tournaments, our Arnis world is really looking up.

Very good!

P.S.

You ask what my role in the seminar was?

I was in charge of registration, documentation, and my favorite, snacks! 

GM Rodel Dagooc signing the certificates

Pugay!

Seminar Venue: Seminar Hall, Quezon Memorial Circle, Quezon City, Philippines

Videos: Balisong flipping by my 13 year old nephew

My nephew RG likes music, gadgets, and soccer but if you want to see his face really light up, talk to him about blades. Short, long, new, old, utility, or weapon, whatever, as long as it’s a blade.

It’s not surprising really. Afterall, he has it in his blood: his grandfather was a military officer, and he has a warrior aunt… ehem.

Uhhh… okay 🙂

Anyway, watch these videos as he shows some of his balisong skills.

1. RG demonstrates how you can take a balisong out from your pocket and use just one hand to open and close it.

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

2. Since the balisong is now popular all over the world, different styles of flipping have been developed. Here RG, shows what he calls the “Filipino freestyle.”

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

3. Now, flipping two balisongs.

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

Pretty cool, right?

Well, someday I’m going to post one of my balisong videos too. Just give me time… 🙂

***Photo credit: wikipedia

Date a Filipino Martial Arts girl

Date a Filipino Martial Arts girl. Date a girl who passionately pursues something not because it is popular but because she knows that it is the one for her.

Watch how she trains and admire her determined focus.  See her concentrate during the attacks, blocks, and disarms. Observe her confident posture,  graceful movements, and bask in the fact that this girl is not afraid of pain. She understands that pain is a part of life and knows that most are, thankfully, temporary.

During breaks, let her sip from your water bottle and marvel that in that sweaty, no-make-up moment, she is most beautiful. She is in her element and she glows.

Be her best friend. Smile with her as she appreciates the little things: the rhythmic tapping of her sticks, the meaning of each sinawali strike, and even how the blisters on her hands symbolize discipline. Listen to the 1,001 reasons why she loves Filipino Martial Arts.

Take her to a tournament an hour before it starts. You will see her quiet excitement as she frets over her weapons, her gear, and her planned strategy. You will laugh because she gives so much importance to Filipino Martial Arts as if it were her entire life. But you will know later that it only shows how passionate she can be about something that is important to her.

Hold her jittery hands before her event. She will hope to do a seamless Anyo routine or make all the winning moves in the Full Contact Event. Press her hand against yours and assure her that she’ll be fine. Look deep into her eyes and say that you are already proud of her.

Always remember that although she can very well take care of herself, she is still a girl who will always appreciate your thoughtfulness and care. Be a gentleman. A Filipino Martial Arts girl enjoys being a lady with her man.

When the right time comes, join her in a belt promotion test and then during the celebration dinner, propose. Or invite her to a sparring practice in the afternoon and then at sunset, get down on your knees.

Marry a Filipino Martial Arts girl because you deserve it. You deserve someone who pursues life with passion and enjoys even the mundane, a girl who passionately grips life with the ultimate paradox of Filipino Martial Arts:  strength and beauty.

So when you do find your Filipino Martial Arts girl, love her, hold her close, and never ever let her go.

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This post was inspired by:

• Date a girl who reads by Rosemarie Urquico
• Date a girl who writes by Tanza Loudenback / Thought Catalog
• Date a girl who runs by Jamie Pizarro / The Bull Runner

Many thanks also to my darling hubby for supplying many of the ideas above, my favorite of which is his insightful quote:

Although a Filipino Martial Arts girl can very well take care of herself,  she is still a girl who will always appreciate a man’s thoughtfulness and care.

Related posts:

• Lady, you want to get into arnis? – stuff to get you started
• James Bond’s girl is a stickfighter…

Carabao horn dulo-dulo

Unpolished pure carabao horn dulo dulo

Just a review: 

A dulo dulo is one of the weapons in Filipino Martial Arts and it is used to slash or stab an enemy.  It is light, handy, and legal to carry anywhere. 

In Filipino, dulo, means “end” or “tip”. Dulo-dulo translates as “end to end” or “tip to tip” (or sometimes, it can also be loosely translated as “two ends” or “two tips”).

 So here I have a weapon grabbed in the middle and has a point on each side of the fist.  

At 5.5 inches, this one fits me but actually, it’s smaller than usual
(I think the usual is about 7 inches)

This was a gift from Rene, one of my classmates in Arnis. His brother who lives in Masbate, Philippines works in a carabao slaughterhouse.  Ohh, sorry about that. But at least, I have a remembrance…

Photo credit: http://www.rappler.com

Do you know what a dulo dulo is? Do you have one?

Following Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc

A friend relates this story: A few years  ago, Grandmaster Rodel “Smoking Sticks” Dagooc had some visitors in his Luneta class and they were requesting him to do a demonstration. GM Rodel instead asked my Arnis Master Cris Pasindo to demonstrate and said, 

Watching him is just like watching me. Pangalawang xerox na, malinaw pa rin! (He’s already a second photocopy but still clear!)

Why second copy? Master Cris was a student of Grandmaster Mon Kiathson who was a student of GM Rodel.

When you think about it, he has a point. Aside from the facial features (many people mistake them to be father and son), their moves are almost the similar. Master Cris is getting there.

Watch Master Rodel do a demonstration  (His part starts at 1:20.  Before him is Senator Miguel Zubiri, a hybrid Ilustrisimo-Lameco stylist and also a student of the late Maestro Edgar Sulite.) 

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here. 

And this is a video I took of Master Cris doing a demo in one of his tournaments.

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

Some more videos to watch:

Master Rodel Dagooc

1.  Bay Area FMA /2002

2. Training/ 2011

3. FMA Picnic/ University of the Philippines /2006

Master Cris Pasindo

1. Blocks and disarms / Quezon City, Philippines /2009

2. Exhibition/ 2010

3. Solo demo / 2013. Please excuse the distracting music. Anyway, a friend who watched this video said that Master Cris is “scaringly fast”. I agree.

************

Thank you to Mr Mio Cusi for most of the information above. Mr Cusi is a former head of The Manila Times Research department. He also studied Arnis under Master Cris but he is now based in Vancouver, Canada.

How about you, who is the biggest influence in your style and technique?

What would you do if Typhoon Haiyan happened to you?

Many would probably be paralyzed by misery, grief, and fear. It’s just too much. Unbelievable.

Typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda approaching Eastern Visayas
Photo credit: earthobservatory.nasa.gov

What’s heartwarming is millions, including the Filipino Martial Artists, from all over the world acted fast and showed solidarity with us in this dark times.

Eastern Visayas is more than 800 kilometers away from where I am, Manila. On 8 November 2013, Friday, 7 AM, I and two other ladies were enjoying our Arnis class and oblivious of the devastation happening at that very time in another part of our country.

Sure, we knew that there was going to be a “super” typhoon but I guess, as many other Filipinos, we didn’t really feel scared of it because we are used to typhoons. Yolanda was already the 25th to enter the country this year.

That night, the news was sketchy. They said that communication with Tacloban, Samar and several other provinces have been completely cut-off.   Hmmm, we began to worry.

Sustained winds reached 305 kph (190 mph)
Photo credit: abc.net.au

The next morning, you can imagine the shock everyone had when the first TV and radio reports came. Eastern Visayas was wiped out! It was surreal. I didn’t expect it to be THAT BAD.

One of the victims washed along the shoreline
Photo credit: abs-cbnnews.com

Thousands dead. Thousands and thousands hurt. Homes, airports, bus stations, ports, roads, bridges, gasoline stations, power, water, and communication lines destroyed.  The local governments, almost helpless.

Majority of the local policemen and government workers were not able to report for work, probably victims themselves.

Steps of a provincial capitol strewn with debris
Photo credit: abs-cbnnews.com

This is so difficult even for us who are so far away from ground zero. After our initial shock, millions of people from the Philippines and around the world offered to help. Despite the inevitable bad elements here and there, I am awed by the empathy and help. That’s a ray of positivity in this nightmare.

Even the Filipino Martial Arts community from the Philippines and all over the world offered help.  Arnis masters rounded up their clubs to send food, clothing, and money. Many volunteered to repack relief goods. FMA filmmakers sold DVDs and Masters gave seminars, the proceeds of which will all go to Yolanda victims.

Yes, that’s what Filipino Martial Artists do. I’m proud to be part of this generous and caring community.  

Please continue to pray for our country. The road to recovery will be long and difficult. Thank you very much for your show of solidarity with us. Thank you for your love and help.

Photo credit: Richard Macaraeg

From around the web:

What if Typhoon Haiyan had hit the US? /CNN

Look: My first FMA books

After that tantrum in my last post where I lamented the scarcity of Arnis books in its land of origin, let me share with you my meager but very valuable collection.

1. Modern Arnis: Philippine Martial Art “Stick Fighting” 

by Remy Amador Presas  (Philippine Copyright 1974)

162 pages

This book is a good foundational read. Even though the paper is dark and rough making reading somewhat hard, I appreciate it that the basics were explained in simple language and accompanied by full illustrations.  Considering the fact that cameras were not digital yet, I salute the enormous effort invested in making this book. Every single movement was described. I also like it that Grandmaster Presas took the time to explain the necessity of moral values.

2. The Practical Art of Eskrima 

by Remy Amador Presas (Philippine Copyright 1994)

248 pages

In many ways, this book is like the first one above–  both deal with the basics and provide full illustrations. But there are more advance techniques like knife defense, women’s self defense, and police techniques reminding everyone that FMA is one of the world’s most practical martial arts.

3. Sikaran. The Fighting Art of the Filipino Farmer

by Emmanuel del Espiritu Santo Querubin (Philippine Copyright 2009)

268 pages

This is a well written, intelligent, and articulate book and I finished it in one sitting! Printed on high-quality paper the book is easy on the eyes. My favorite part is The History of the Filipino Fighting Arts  spanning six delicious pages! But really, each page is full of interesting information. I also like it that there are many photos and that they included a very useful glossary of Filipino terms and weapons.  I highly recommend this book.

To read about the fascinating things I learned from this book click here.

4. 100 Filipino Martial Artists

by Garitony C. Nicolas (Philippine Copyright 2013)

This has proven to be a useful book for me although, with due respect, I think it could use some more editing and proofreading.  Anyway, when I’m on Facebook and someone suddenly pops up to chat and I remember that he is one of the persons featured in the book, I refer to it for some background information about my FB friend. So nice.

5. The Way of the Warrior. The Paradox of the Martial Arts

by Howard Reid and Michael Croucher (Copyright 1983, Great Britain)

240 pages

The paradox of the martial arts — studying a lethaI skill can make us peacemakers. This is a well-researched, insightful, conversational yet so informative book. I had many attitude changes after reading it — changes that would help me become a better person in and outside the martial arts world.

After reading this book’s chapter about the almost unknown martial art of Kalaripayit, India,  I also developed a more positive attitude about the fact that Arnis is not so popular. The “secretiveness” somehow brings a sense of exclusivity and worth.

The book devotes a special section for Arnis, mainly discussing Doce Pares and Cocoy Canete.

Cacoy Canete, shows a back-hand striking motion

6. Mastering Eskrima Disarms 

by Mark V. Wiley (Copyright 2009 & 2013)

241 pages

This is my newest acquisition and it’s special because I got it personally from GM Wiley himself.

Several Grandmasters, including my master Cris Pasindo, met with GM Wiley. I came along to watch their exhibitions.

I sometimes worry that there isn’t enough written documentation of FMA techniques and they will just die with the masters. Now, a new instructional book with lots of photos and written descriptions lessens that anxiety.  I appreciate it that it does not deal with just one style but more than 30 FMA styles. This is an intelligent and very credible reference book.  I’m glad it’s in my collection.

********

So friends, these are my precious books so far. There will be more, I know.

How about you? What’s in your collection?

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Thank you to fellow blogger Rick Vagas for showing his books. Both of us wish we had more.  FMA Books / Better Living Personal Development and Martial Arts

Where, oh where, are the Arnis books?

Look at this masterpiece that greets you at Fully Booked in Bonifacio Global City.

A floor to ceiling book art

Did you notice? They’re books. So beautiful

Like a child in a candy store, all my senses perk up when I’m in a bookstore. I just love being in the company of pages and pages of wisdom, knowledge, adventure, drama, etc, etc.

A few weeks ago, hubby and I went and he gave me the whole afternoon to scour the goods.

I went straight to the martial arts section.

Two big shelves of martial arts books! Yay!

Now, look for Arnis books.

No Arnis book here

None here either

Not even one here

IN THIS HUGE BOOKSTORE, THERE’S NOT EVEN ONE ARNIS BOOK???

Previously, I also checked several branches of National Bookstore and Powerbooks and they carried only three– GM Presas’s Modern Arnis and Practical Eskrima; and Emmanuel Querubin’s Sikaran!

Krav Maga, Aikido, and Karate books overflow in shelves but where are the ones about my beloved Arnis? In amazon.com?? But I want them in bookstores! I want them to be as accessible as the other books!!!

WHERE ARE THEY??

I’m ready to have a tantrum!!!

Excuse me.

Chicken, rice, coffee, and Grandmasters

From left: GMs Jimmy Ibrahim, Martin Raganas, Jr., Francisco “Boy” Pajo, Henry Espera, Inocencio “Sioux” Glaraga, Roberto Labaniego, Vicente Sanchez

What do you get when you put Arnis Grandmasters together? Well…, a lot of Arnis talk, of course! (I’m corny!)

Anyway, that’s exactly what happened last Sunday, 25 August 2013. Grandmasters who held classes in Luneta were invited to a simple lunch get together.

With the help of some friends, our group’s Master, Cris Pasindo, organized the no-fuss event as a small token of appreciation of the efforts of older Grandmasters.

“They were among the ones who really worked hard for Arnis,” Master Cris said.

He couldn’t invite everyone, of course.  “When we receive more blessings we’ll have more of these,” Master Cris said. For this particular event, seven Grandmasters came and that’s more than good enough!

1. Jimmy Ibrahim (Founder, Falcon Martial Arts)
2. Martin Raganas, Jr. (A first generation student of the legendary Antonio Ilustrisimo)
3. Francisco “Boy” Pajo — (Veteran Arnis tournament official)
4. Henry Espera (Founder, Rapido Realismo Kali)
5. Inocencio “Sioux” Glaraga (Founder, Kalaki Arkanis)
6. Roberto “Bert” Labaniego (Founder, Top Labaniego Arnis Club)
7. Vicente Sanchez (Founder, Kali Arnis International)

What did they do?

They enjoyed piping hot tamarind soup, ice-cold coke, Filipino-style chicken barbeque, and lots of rice. (The yellow thing on the rice is chicken oil. Not so healthy but oh so delicious!)

They were given a simple gift of black shirts with the generic Philiipine flag and ARNIS logo, so that they can wear them in other events.  (See photos above and below.)

You know, this group of Grandmasters were really fun to be with. They had lots of animated conversations about their earlier days. Lots of laughter there.

Talk became a bit quieter when the topic became the current situation of Arnis in the Philippines. “Learn from the mistakes of your elders. Do not be distracted by too much politics,” they said.

What I liked best was when they discussed different techniques.

“Redonda is the backbone move of arnis”

“Whatever the style, strikes #1 and #5 are always the same.”

And then at coffee time,  they demonstrated some of their favorite moves.

Gm Labaniego showing some Lightning moves to Master Cris

At 3PM, some had to leave but some moved to a nearby McDonalds to have more coffee and conversation.

Beside Master Sioux: Sgt Tolentino Diaz and Guro Mon Mirano

Punong Guro Pajo, what are you saying that Master Cris finds so funny?

Of course I had some photo ops. I had a few only because I was shy 🙂

With Master Sioux, so far the most interesting arnis personality I’ve met. FMA’s walking encyclopedia. Eccentric. Unique.

With GMs Ibrahim and Espera. It would have been a really good warriors’ photo had there been no bottles of soy sauce and vinegar in the background, haha!

with GM Sanchez and his beautiful wife Cora (she has flawless skin, I tell you!) Standing behind us: my always funny classmate Richard, his son Jude and of course, Master Sioux

with GM Labaniego who always had a ready warm smile, and has a low voice like a DJ’s

A good afternoon with good friends. The older Grandmasters should have more of these.

We’ll see. As the blessings come…

Pugay, Grandmasters. Thank you for all your hardwork for Arnis.

Thank you for taking time to read The Deadly Dance.

**************

Related posts:

• Tournament review: Why I’m proud in a sad kind of way
• When in Manila, don’t miss a visit to Luneta

Do you know this Maestro?

Photo taken on 10 August 2013 in Luneta, Manila, Philippines

“Pugay, Maestro,” we said to a man with fair skin, long wavy hair,  bushy silver beard, wearing an oversize jacket, piles of necklaces and bracelets, and carrying several canes bound together.

I’ve seen some photos of him on Facebook but the first time I saw him in person was a few Sundays ago when our Arnis Master Cris Pasindo brought our group to Rizal Park. Part of the outing’s goal was to meet different grandmasters. (See that post here.)

The Maestro’s get-up was something I don’t usually see among Filipino Martial Artists or anyone for that matter.  The first words that entered my mind: Weird.  Odd.

So I was a bit taken aback when he spoke. One could immediately tell that he was highly-educated. I was impressed right away. Within minutes our group was chuckling at his wit and caught up with what he was saying.

When I asked permission if I could write about him in this blog he said yes, with one condition:

“Spell my name right: S-I-O-U-X.”

Okay I will, Maestro Sioux.

The above photo is actually posed. In reality, about ten of us were gathered around him, much like an informal classroom.

Oh, if I only knew how to take down notes like a news reporter! I’m sure I would have gotten more information. Anyway, here are a few of the points I got. The way I write makes it look serious but Master Sioux was warm, conversational, and witty. Not preachy at all.

About him: (He wasn’t in the mood to talk about himself so this is all I got)

Inocencio Y. Glaraga a.k.a. Maestro Alibatar EMS a.k.a. Maestro Sioux

• Academic degrees: B.Crim, A.B., B.S. Ed (Major in PE), M.S. Crim
• Was a certified NBI, Police, and Military Instructor
• Native of Negros Occidental, Western Visayas, Philippines
• prefers to be called Maestro because he says that’s what he is, a teacher
• he plans to go back to teaching FMA soon but only instructors’ level

His thoughts:

• Who are we to claim that this art is ours?  What we know, we also got from others
• Be very careful and always acknowledge those who taught you
• You cannot mix virtues with vices
• If you are not disciplined yourself, you have no business teaching discipline to your students
• Guard your tongue. Do not let a temporary irritation bring permanent damage
• If you are a master, live as a master. It is the duty of the student to care for his master
• Build character early on. A skilled practitioner without values is very dangerous
• You cannot be a teacher unless you remain a student
• Teaching is learning
• Practice diligently until the moves come naturally to you, like a reflex. Muscle memory is important because in battle, you don’t have the luxury of time to think
• Cross studies broaden a student’s horizon. But this is how you should go about it: Learn the fundamentals from your own master first. Then when your master says you are ready, you can go and get cross studies

Sure, there were times when Master Sioux made “weird” statements like a certain mysterious Maestro Sto. Nino teaching him and that one time when he healed an injured Arnis player with a dab of his saliva.

I REALLY don’t subscribe to those things and that’s one part of FMA I don’t want to participate in so I was very conscious and careful. But thankfully, those statements were few and far apart .

And here’s the reason why I think he’s one of FMAs gems: He has a profound knowledge of the Filipino Martial Arts. Ask him anything and he knows the answer: history, personalities, styles, etc. He’s like a walking encyclopedia.

Of all the things he said, this is my favorite:

For twelve years I along with several others tried to unify Filipino Martial Artists but we failed. Now, I think the younger Grandmasters have learned from the mistakes of their elders. So, there’s hope.

In the end, I ask these questions:

“Do you know this Maestro? Have you talked to him lately?” Maybe you can join me in getting to know him…again.  I’m sure we can all benefit from FMA’s walking encyclopedia. And if you’re one of those who appreciate him, maybe you can let him know now. I think even maestros need a pat on the back sometimes.

“Is he weird?” Maybe the better term is eccentric. And mostly only in attire. What he really is, is an enthusiastic teacher who wishes Filipino Martial Artists to be united for their own good.

Maestro S-i-o-u-x, you’re my kind of Maestro. I look forward to seeing you again.

Pugay! 

**************************

Thank you for taing time to read The Deadly Dance.

**************************

Interesting reads from around the web:

• The singing sticks of Ciok by Emmanuel ES Querubin / FMA Informative Digest 2010, pages 15-17. Look at his David and Goliath Karate photo. He lost that fight but you could see his heart.
• The people who influenced us / The Influence of Armas briefly discusses his FMA background.
• The School of Arnis Professionals / FMA Informative Digest Special Issue 2010. He taught basic Abecedario. Look at his photos on page 8.
• Abecedario or Abakada of Filipino Martial Arts Education / FMA Digest Special issue 2010, pages 11-14

Videos:

1. Maestro Sioux doing a demo with Grandmaster Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

2. In this video, you can hear Maestro Sioux’s voice explaining the salient points of the Ilustrisimo style while Tatang Illustrisimo demonstrates his moves before his young apprentice now GM Tony Diego, who many call the legitimate heir of Kali Ilustrisimo. Click here.  

3. Again, Maestro Sioux’s voice in this video explaining the movements of Lightning Scientific Arnis as demonstrated by two late Grandmasters–Ben Lema (the founder) and Elmer Ybanez (the worthy apprentice). Click here.

************

Thank you to Mr. Mio Cusi for telling me about these videos.

When in Manila, don’t miss a visit to Luneta

Three decades. Or more. That’s my estimate of how long it has been since I went to Manila’s most popular park, Rizal Park, a.k.a. Luneta.

Oh sure, I always pass by Roxas Boulevard and see Luneta from my car. Several times I’ve stayed in Manila Hotel and saw Luneta from our windows. But to really go there and walk its paths? Three decades.

You ask why? Well, I had that common hang-up that public parks, especially Luneta, were full of not-so-nice elements: litter, dirty toilets, beggars, holduppers, carnappers, etc, etc, etc.

I’m glad our Arnis Master, Cris Pasindo, decided to bring our group there. He said that all Arnis practitioners would benefit from a visit to Luneta. So at 7 o’clock in the morning two Sundays ago, we all went there: seven arnisadors, 15 Arnis kids, and their parents.

I tell you. I was surprised! What was supposed to be a two-hour outing became an almost whole day affair because we enjoyed it so much!

First look:

• There was ample parking in the park’s periphery.
• Joggers, runners, aerobic groups, tai chi practitioners, martial artists, and other sporty people who were there gave a vibe of health and fitness
• The park was clean. Yes! Of course, there were plastic wrappers lying here and there but there were no heaps of rotting garbage as I expected.  I was so surprised that I asked the woman sweeping the grounds, “Has it always been this clean in Luneta or only after President Erap became mayor?” She looked genuinely surprised by my question and quickly replied “Dati pa po.” (It has always been clean). Oh, okay. Maybe I asked the wrong person but…okay! Luneta is clean!
• If you need to go, the toilets are clean. At least the one I went to was.  (You just have to pay Php 5 (USD 0.10) to enter)
• Security guards are aplenty. You see them all over.
• There were no homeless people sleeping in the park. I saw some in Baywalk, Roxas Boulevard, but in Luneta, none.
• At 7 AM, the fountain at the center of the park was dancing full blast.  Fantastic.
• And then the most spectacular of all, a 30-foot brass statue of Lapulapu (see below).

So what did we do there?

1. We practiced Arnis, basking in the morning sunlight and fresh air ( fresh as fresh could be in the middle of a busy city). Much better than always inhaling mall airconditioning. 🙂

Look and see how pleasant the grounds are.

2. We had bonding time.

3. Master Cris gave a short history lesson about Lapulapu and then we all had a pictorial in front of his monument.

Lapulapu, the 16th century chieftain who is known as the first Filipino to have resisted foreign invasion.

His kampilan is down and inside its scabbard but Lapulapu stands alert, symbolizing that the Filipino is a man of peace but ready to fight for his land and honor.

4. We remembered our national hero, Jose Rizal.

4. We observed different Arnis classes. There are at least five around Luneta.

That’s Peachie Baron, a formidable kalis Ilustrisimo practitioner teaching a student itak moves. (I think she’s the most fashionable Arnis teacher I ever saw — long flowing hair, cap, big designer shades, jeans and bag! Unique!)

5. We met Arnis grandmasters, humble in look and demeanor but oh, treasures of Arnis skills and knowledge

From left: Lakan Von Altas, Master Cris, Grandmaster Martin Raganas, Jr., Grandmaster Sioux, and Guro Eddie Lladoc

6. The children did an impromptu exhibition.

7-year old Michael showing his moves to the Grandmasters. “Very good!”

The grandmasters were warm, articulate, and full of wisdom that we wanted to prolong the privilege of being with them. So at around 12:30 PM we all went to Mang Inasal and over hot tamarind soup, grilled chicken, and lots of rice, we were treated to stories about Arnis. Very, very interesting! We felt like insiders in the intriguing world of Arnis during the 70’s.

Since most of us still had to go to Sunday worship, at 3:30 PM we had to part ways. It was a great day. We were very grateful.

So my friends, when in Manila, stop by Luneta. You just might have a pleasant, educational, memorable time as we had.

Pugay!

**************

Related post:

Chicken, rice, coffee, and Grandmasters

From around the web:

• The Philippines 2011 – every given Sunday / Wingchunarnis. Talks about some Arnis groups in Luneta.
• Luneta, Manila / Virtual Tourist.  Briefly describes some interesting things in Luneta.
• News archives: Department of Tourism unveils Lapulapu monument in Luneta / Lakbay Pilipinas 2004

Profile: Bert Labaniego, Grandmaster

Grandmaster Labaniego, fondly called Mang Bert.
Photo credit: Arnis Pasindo 2012

I remember seeing a slight, quiet man with a ready smile, working hard as one of the officials in an Arnis tournament last year.

I never knew that he was a big man in Arnis until I caught him on FMA Talk Live! and  saw a few of his videos on Youtube (see below).

Oh my, I regret that I walked by without giving due courtesy. I’m so sorry GM Labaniego. (I also did that to Grandmaster Henry Espera and I’m sure to not a few other GMs… Because I did not know!) –so sorry because I missed an opportunity to do what I’ve always wanted to do: to acknowledge the heroes of Arnis.

Next time I’ll know better.

Grandmaster Labaniego:
highly skilled, generous, incredibly humble.
Photo credit : Eskrima Labaniego Facebook page

A search around the web (and later, an actual phone interview with him) gave me these information about this Grandmaster fondly called, Mang Bert.

• born on June 6, 1940 in the municipality of Mambusao in the province of Capiz, Visayas, Philippines
• his grandfather, Francisco Labaniego Sr.  was skilled in sibat (Filipino spear)
• at age 12, he began training with his father, Custodio Labaniego, who taught him the basics of Largo Mano (Long Range System), Dumog (Filipino Grappling) and some boxing
• their family was into rice and corn farming and used their weapon skills in warding off animals
• in 1979, started training in the traditional Espada y Daga (Sword and Knife) system under Grandmaster Benjamin Luna Lema (founder of the Lightning Scientific Arnis System). For a video of GM Lema, click here.
• although just 5 feet 5 inches tall, he became very skilled in close-range fighting
• became a senior associate of Grandmaster Lema
• founder of Top Labaniego Arnis Club and Eskrima Labaniego
• now based in Paranaque, Metro Manila, Philippines where he still gives private lessons (For details, click HERE.)

Photo credit: Combat Journal 2005

Photo credit: Roberto Labaniego Facebook account

Mang Bert is a formidable master of the Espada y Daga system. He says he likes it because it

• is very effective and very hard to counter
• utilizes two weapons of different lengths
• emphasizes proper body positioning, footwork, and ranging
• helps condition his body and mind, and is like a medicine that keeps him young

There was a 3-DVD series made about the Labaniego system. Sadly, it’s currently not available on line. But the DVD review says this about him:

Grand Master Roberto Labaniego is the real deal. Highly skilled, humble, and incredibly generous with his knowledge, the Grand Master is the epitome of the Filipino martial artist. Mang Bert has had to use his highly developed skills in many real-life encounters with the bolo (long working sword), knife, ice pick, and empty hands. Because of his background, Mang Bert has developed a very different approach to the art of fighting with the blade, stick, knife, or empty handed.

Update as of 12 August 2013: I was able to talk to GM Labaniego over the phone this morning. Ever so humble he sounded a little embarrassed when I said that I wrote about his skill and achievements. About the DVD, his one and only copy got lost during that terrible flood in 2009, Ondoy. But he has a friend who still has a copy and he can lend me that provided that I don’t reproduce it because of copyright issues.   (Hmmm, I’m sad that the world cannot see this DVD).  Anyway, we’ll see what happens.

For now, here are the Youtube videos I found:

1. Grandmaster Bert (in red) with Master Mando Arroyo in the 1980’s

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

2. The introduction video of his DVD series (2006)

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

3. With Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc  (GM Labaniego shows his prowess starting 0:39)

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

4. A more recent video of GM Labaniego doing an impromtu demonstration

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

Grandmaster Bert Labaniego, you are a Filipino Martial Arts hero. I give you my sincerest Pugay.

********************

Thank you to my sources for this post:

• Roberto Labaniego Facebook account
• FMA Talk Live! The interview starts at 0:19:00
• An Interview with GM Bert Labaniego / Combat Journal 2005
• SINAG Filipino Martial Arts Institute
• GM Labaniego himself for giving me the honor of interviewing him over the phone.  Thank you very much GM.

Grandmaster Bert’s response via text message, 15 August 2013, 11:02 AM.

Hi Joy. Thank you sa iyong paglathala sa iyong blog ng tungkol sa akin, kagabi ko lang nabasa … parang sobra naman yata ang papuri hehehe…pero sa kabila ng lahat, salamat. Salamat din sa iyong pagbigay halaga sa ating sariling martial art na Arnis. God bless you and your family. Pugay! (Hi Joy. Thank you very much for writing about me in your blog. I was able to read it only last night. I think the praises may be too much… but even then, thank you. Thank you also for giving importance to our own martial art, Arnis. God bless you and your family. Pugay!)

I’m honored GM Bert. Pugay po.

Nine reasons why your brand should sponsor Arnis tournaments in the Philippines

Arnis Full Contact Event
Photo Credit: Arnis Pasindo

No, I’m not  a marketing person but the more I think about it, the more I am convinced: Sponsoring Arnis tournaments here in the Philippines will be a smart and surefire investment for your brand.

Yes!

You want to know why?

Read on, my friends.

1. You will be a part of something that will grow, for sure. In 2009, Arnis became the Philippines’ National Martial Art and Sport (Republic Act No. 9850). The implementing Rules and Regulations are still being finalized but  Arnis will soon be promoted and taught in communities, primary-secondary-tertiary schools, armed forces (AFP), and the police (PNP).  See for yourself how HUGE it will be HERE.

2. You will build your brand’s pro-Pinoy image. What other sport can give you this?  You will be known as supporter and promoter of the Filipino spirit, culture, and heritage.

3. You will be identified with the qualities ascribed to Arnis: patriotism, fearlessness, guts, determination, and speed.

4. Your brand will be exposed to your target consumers: high school and college students, as well as influential people like coaches, tournament organizers, and officials.

5. You will have a chance to build awareness, affinity, and loyalty to your brand at a relatively lower cost compared to other means of marketing.

6. Your promotional materials will receive maximum exposure. The tournament is held in a fixed venue i.e., the participants and spectators stay in one place the whole tournament duration. Displayed promotional materials like banners and posters are in their sight the whole time.

7. You will be seen by so many in social media. The participants belong to a group profiled as being active in Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, and other social media. Think of how many will see your brand’s name and logo in the background of so many shared photos and videos.

8. You won’t have to compete with other big brands in sponsoring other already popular sports. Why go where it is already crowded? In Arnis, you’ll surely get noticed.

9. You’ll have the opportunity to do something noble for the Philippines.  Filipinos, this is our country, our heritage, our sport.  It’s time to love our own. Our non Filipino friends,  help us become a people who appreciate and practice our own. It’s high time.

Anyo Event at the 8th Arnis Pasindo Tournament . Photo credit: STIX.

So, my friends, do you agree?

Sponsoring an Arnis tournament is a killer marketing strategy!

**************

Related posts:

• 6th Arnis Pasindo Tournament
• Tournament review: Why I’m proud in a sad kind of way
• Arnis oaths of sportsmanship (Filipino version)
• 7th Arnis Pasindo Tournament, done!
• Why I didn’t say a thing for days (I’ll tell you why, I wrote about our tournaments for a magazine!)

Why I didn’t say a thing for days

Photo credit: http://www.tumblr.com

Ten days after that crazy Blogathon challenge of posting daily for one month and watching a high-energy Arnis tournament, I live to tell the story…

I was silent because I was BUSY (in a delicious, exciting kind of way so I’m not complaining at all! 🙂 )

My friends, my silence has created a…magazine (ta dah!)

FMA Informative, the international online newspaper, magazine, and digest asked me to work with them to put up a whole magazine issue about that Arnis tournament my instructor Master Cris Pasindo organized.

Of course, I said YES!

I worked with the Big Man of FMA Informative, the Chief Instructor and Inheritor of Arnis Balite, Steven Dowd himself! Mind you, he was nice and magnanimous to this amateur writer. He wasn’t demanding at all. He requested information and would just say “I’m standing by.” For some mysterious reason that courteous sentence made me get up from my oh-so-comfortable bed and do my assignment. Very effective.

The magazine will be FMA Informative Magazine’s Issue #87, coming sometime in August 2013. (Update: It’s out! See it here.)

And as icing on the cake, they will also include one of my posts in their July 30 newspaper. I’m thrilled! If you’re curious to know which post got their attention, click here.

You know, working with a great man with a great magazine to tell about a great event is a privilege not given to many.

I cherish the experience.

Thank you very much FMA Informative and Punong Guro Steven Dowd.

Pugay!

**********

UPDATE: It’s out! I’m actually in a newspaper along with two formidable and highly respected Arnis grandmasters and authors,  Marc Lawrence and Mustafa Gatdula. It’s an honor. Check out the issue HERE.

7th Arnis Pasindo Tournament, done!

I’m dead tired.

These past two days have really been spectacularly exciting. I went to another Anis tournament…as spectator…but still…I’m tired…well, if you spend two days with 130 or so young Arnisadors, you’d also be tired 🙂

To all participants and winners, congratulations and more power to you!

Here are a few photos for now. If I get the energy, I’ll post more. 🙂

UPDATE: FMA Informative will publish a whole issue about this tournament. Watch out for it in September 2013.

High-adrenaline from start to finish

Intense!

The flying GM, Jay Jumawan

Young athletes intently listening to GM Vic Sanchez’s words of wisdom

Arnis Pasindo Kids’ Team (New Manila, QC Chapter)

That’s me with other Arnis Pasindo members.

**************

Related posts:

• 6th Arnis Pasindo Tournament
• Tournament review: Why I’m proud in a sad kind of way
• Arnis oaths of sportsmanship (Filipino version)
• Why I didn’t say a thing for days (I’ll tell you why, I wrote about our tournaments for a magazine!)
• Nine reasons why your brand should sponsor Arnis tournaments in the Philippines
• Photos: 8th Arnis Pasindo Tournament

Arnis Oaths of Sportsmanship (Filipino version)

 

Today, 29 June 2013, The Arnis Pasindo Martial Arts Association held the first day of its 7th Invitational Arnis Tournament.

Congratulations to all the participants and winners in today’s events — Anyo (Form) and Juniors Full Contact Competition.

Tomorrow will be another exciting day with the Seniors’ Full Contact Competition.

Let me share the Arnis Pasindo Tournament Oaths of Sportsmanship (for athletes; for officials; and for coaches and members of the athletes’ entourage). They are always recited in Filipino but I included the English translations below.

Arnis Pasindo Eskrima Tournament

Oath of Sportsmanship for Arnis Athletes 

(Itaas natin ang ating kanang kamay bilang simbulo ng ating panunumpa bilang manlalaro.)

Bilang isang manlalaro, ako, si ______(pangalan)_____, ay nangangakong lalahok sa palarong ito na may paggalang at pagsunod sa mga panuntunan nito. Inaalay ko ang aking sarili sa malinis at disiplinadong paglalaro, para sa karangalan ng Arnis at ng aking grupo. Tulungan N’yo po ako, Panginoon.

As an athlete, I ___________, promise to participate in this tournament with respect and obedience to its rules and regulations. I offer myself to clean and disciplined play, for the honor of Arnis and my team. So help me God.

Arnis Pasindo Eskrima Tournament

Oath of Sportsmanship for Arnis Officials 

(Itaas natin ang ating kanang kamay bilang simbulo ng ating panunumpa bilang mga opisyal.)

Bilang isang opisyal, ako, si ______ pangalan_________ ay nangangako na ako ay mamumuno at magdedesisyon nang walang kinikilingan at may paggalang sa mga panuntunan ng palarong ito. Inaalay ko ang aking sarili na gumawa tungo sa malinis at disiplinadong paglalaro, para sa karangalan ng aming pambansang laro, Arnis. Tulungan N’yo po ako, Panginoon.

As one of the tournament officials, I ___________, promise to lead and decide without partiality.  I will respect and abide with the rules and regulations of this tournament. I offer myself to work for a clean and disciplined play, for the honor of our national Sport, Arnis. So help me God.

Arnis Pasindo Eskrima

Oath of Sportsmanship for Arnis Coaches and Other Members of the Athletes’ Entourage (Filipino Version)

(Itaas natin ang ating kanang kamay bilang simbulo ng ating panunumpa bilang mga opisyal.)

Bilang isang tagapagsanay o kabilang sa grupo ng mga manlalaro ako, si _______________ay nangangakong gagawin ko ang lahat sa abot ng aking makakaya na panatilihing disiplinado at malinis ang palarong ito. Ako ay magiging isang mabuting halimbawa sa lahat ng manlalaro; sa karangalan ng aming pambansang laro, Arnis. Tulungan N’yo po ako, Panginoon.

As a coach or member of the the athletes’ entourage, I________________,  promise to do my best to achieve a clean and disciplined tournament. I will be a good example to all participants; for the honor of our national sport, Arnis. So help me God.

****************

Thank you very much for taking the time to read The Deadly Dance. Pugay!

Related posts:

• Arnis tournament expenses
• Nine reasons why your brand should sponsor Arnis tournaments in the Philippines
• A documentary film: Eskrimadors Part 4 of 5. This part discusses how Arnis tournaments started.
• What’s the uniform of Arnis?
• Tournament review: Why I’m proud in a sad kind of way

Announcement: Arnis Tournament – June 29-30, 2013, Philippines

The Arnis Pasindo Eskrima Martial Arts Association

7th Invitational Arnis Tournament

June 29 -30, 2013 (Saturday and Sunday)

10 AM to 8 PM

Jackman Plaza, Munoz, Quezon City, Philippines (For a map, click here)

Anyo / Full Contact Arnis (Junior and Senior Divisions)

Registration Fee: Php 250/participant

Some words from the organizer, Master Cris Pasindo.

I organized this tournament so that more Filipinos will learn and appreciate Arnis. It is our national sport, our very own.

Aside from that, competitions are effective motivators for Arnis practitioners to train seriously. It’s one way to keep the standards high.

It’s also a venue to meet and bond with others in the community.

I thank my friends for helping and volunteering their time and expertise. This is not a financially-rewarding endeavor for us but it’s worth it. From the secretariat to the officials, most of us are doing this out of our love for Arnis and the Philippines.

Okay, thank you very much Master Cris Pasindo. See you there!

Mabuhay ang Arnis!

Pugay!

********************************

See follow up posts:

• 7th Arnis Pasindo Tournament, done!
• Why I didn’t say a thing for days

Is there a Sikaran class nearby?

Photo credit: http://www.rizalprovince.gov.ph

Sikaran just fascinates me a lot. See my first post about it here.

• First, it’s a Filipino Martial Art, so it’s a given that I like it.
• Second, its jumping, spinning, and flying kicks are entertaining, dare I say, mesmerizing to watch.
• Third, I  KNOW how physically demanding those kicks are!

You see, a few months ago, I joined a strength training boot camp.  We met thrice a week and we always had intense, heart-pumping-to-the-max activities.

Once (it wasn’t repeated anymore), they asked us to do some kicking exercises.

Something like this….

Photo credit: http://www.tannymartialarts.com

…but…NOT. Really.

My highest kick did not even reach above-waist level!

First, I had to do five kicks each leg. Rest one minute. Then ten kicks each leg. Rest. And so on. ..until we reached 30 each leg.

After that last round, the world suddenly became a like a rollercoaster and my heart felt like it wanted to jump off my chest!

You know, I have already finished a marathon and many other shorter races and I’ve been in Arnis for several months but that kicking session was the only one which gave me that overwhelming sensation of …D-Y-I-N-G.

I’m exaggerating, of course.

But not too much.

Kicking hard is… well, HARD.

It’s not easy. It’s not a joke.

That’s why I bow to the Sikaranistas.

Their strength, stamina, and power are superb.

Something I aspire for.

Now, I’m still definitely staying with Arnis but I wonder if there’s a Sikaran class near here? One that accepts stiff adults whose best effort bend reaches only to the shins…   🙂

Pugay!

******************

From Youtube:

Old but very valuable videos featuring Sikaran Supreme Master Meliton Geronimo himself. He speaks Tagalog but I don’t think that will be a problem for those who don’t understand it. The videos are pretty straightforward. Click here and here.

Arnis is not fancy

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon

I really enjoyed watching the fight scenes of the martial arts movies listed here. It’s my first real exposure to this genre because before, I avoided watching movies I knew would have prolonged fight scenes.

Well, people change. Now, I find the spinning kicks to the head, flying somersaults, and lengthy strike exchanges totally entertaining.

Very nice!

I imagined myself doing the moves but… alas! that will never happen. I don’t think I can ever learn all those complicated choreography.

Aside from that, I’m studying Arnis and those moves are not part of our system.

Ours is a martial art devised by warriors who had actually engaged in real life-and-death conflicts. They did not aim to simply land a hit, score a point, or pin the enemy to the ground. Their object was to seriously hurt the enemy and do it as quickly as possible.

Fancy styles were simply out of place.

Let’s take for example Body Shifting and Footwork. Here’s what we are taught:

“An Arnis player must not raise or lower his hips more than necessary; he should move them more or less in a straight line. He must not raise his feet high off the ground. He must not drag them ether. In both cases, he will lose both speed and balance.” — Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, Modern Arnis, 1974, p.28.

Yes, that’s us.

Straight to the point. Pure. Effective.

Do you agree?

Pugay!

14 Best martial arts movies every guy (and gal) should see

Oh my! I “wasted” a lot of time watching videos again! 😀

It’s the fault of this wonderful web article I found: The 14 Best Martial Arts Movies Every Guy Should See / Cool Material.   It showed a fight trailer for each one!

• Ip Man
• Hero
• Enter the Dragon
• Ong Bak
• Brotherhood of the Wolf
• 13 Assasins
• The Man from Nowhere
• Kung Fu Hustle
• Once Upon a Time in China
• Kill Bill Vol. 1
• Iron Monkey
• Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
• The Legend of Drunken Master
• Seven Samurai

Before I got interested in Arnis, I never liked action movies, much less martial arts ones. But times have changed.

I watched every single trailer in the list and they’re great! Maybe a generous someone will gift me with copies of the full movies…..Ahemmm….hubby 🙂

Want to check out the videos? Click here.

How about you? What movies are on your list?

What’s the uniform of Arnis?

Katipunero Uniforms. Photo credit: forums.taleworlds.com

In the Philippines, Arnis doesn’t really have stiff rules on uniforms.

On practice sessions, you can wear your usual exercise outfit. In tournaments,  the rules vary. This is so unlike most of the martial arts which have strict requirements on their uniforms.

I venture to present several explanations for this:

1. During the more than 300 years of Spanish colonization, Arnis was a secret martial art. Practitioners had to hide what they were doing so, of course, they couldn’t wear a uniform.

2. When the American colonizers arrived in the early 20th century, they allowed us Filipinos to practice our martial art. The different practitioners emerged but each one had a style of his own. When they formed their own clubs, the few who had uniforms had their own color and style. (I think the most common these days are the black pants and shirt with red lining. But even then, these are usually just worn during exhibitions and not on regular practice days.)

3.  Arnis was passed from one generation to another, from father to son.  They practiced in their homes or in the streets. Uniforms were unnecessary and impractical.

4. Due to economic reasons, most Arnis practitioners, past and present, do not have access to gyms and formal areas of study. Practicing in public parks usually do not need uniforms. 

5. Unlike the other Asian martial arts, Arnis does not have a religious or royal origin so it does not have the usual rituals or formality, including uniforms.

In the 1970’s, Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, developed a system he called Modern Arnis and he proposed this uniform:

• Red loose pants
• white shirt
• Belts (white, brown, or black)

I have yet to find his explanation for this but many present Arnis instructors explain the choice this way:

This uniform is based on the uniform of the Katipuneros (revolutionary fighters who sought freedom from Spanish colonizers). See the right one on the photo above. Red means bravery and white means purity of heart.

At present, the Philippine National Games (Palarong Pambansa) requires Arnis athletes to wear the same:

• Plain red pants (school or club logo may appear on the pants)
• Plain white t-shirt (athlete’s name, school/club logo and sponsors may appear on the shirt provided that it does not dominate the overall appearance of the shirt)
• Rubber soled shoes

No fuss.

Arnis is pretty straightforward, right? Right. 

I like it that way.

What are your thoughts on this?

Thank you for taking the time to read the Deadly Dance. Pugay!

******************

Related posts:

• What is Arnis?
• A documentary film on the development of Arnis: Eskrimadors
• Andres Bonifacio, Eskrimador

Interesting reads from around the web:

• An encyclopedic discussion of the Arnis uniform: Martial Arts of the World: An Encyclopedia of History and Innovation
• A discussion on Arnis uniforms: martialtalk.com forum

James Bond’s girl is a stickfighter…and a swordfighter…and a …

Rachel Grant with Pierce Brosnan in Die Another Day

Rachel with Guro Victor Gendrano Jr.

Rachel was born in the Philippines to a Filipina mother and a British father.

Here’s an excerpt of an interview she had with Inside Kung-Fu Magazine. (To read the full interview, click here.)

IKF: What attracted you to Filipino martial arts (FMA)?

Rachel: I was attracted to the immediate use of weaponry and the techniques involved. Unlike other martial arts that start with empty hands and later add the use of weapons, FMA starts with weapons and later moves on to empty-hand techniques. I’ve always found that aspect of FMA training interesting and one that works well.

Another appeal is the diversity of weapons. FMA encompasses the use of an assortment of weaponry from bladed, impact and flexible weapons, including spears, swords, shields, whips, the sarong, ropes and the yoyo.

IKF: Who is your Guro and how often do you train?

Rachel: His name is Guro Victor Gendrano Jr. and he has been training in FMA over 30 years. Initially we worked together in guro Dan’s class at the Inosanto Academy in Los Angeles and now I take classes with him privately and at irregular intervals depending on my schedule. He is very talented with his style of teaching.

KF: How did you get cast in Die Another Day?

Rachel: I was cast from one audition for the Bond movie. For the audition, I brought along my nunchaku and asked if I could perform a martial arts nunchaku demo, which was somewhat in keeping with the character but not written in to the script. They let me and liked it! The demo really caught their attention—it was very much like a Bond Girl villainess so I got the role, I was told. It’s quite extraordinary how a couple of sticks and being a martial artist got me cast in my most notable character and changed everything. The knock-off effect of Bond has been remarkable.

Very nice, Rachel, very nice.

Pugay!

*********************

Related posts:

Is Stickfighting an art?

In what movies can we see FMA? For the answer, click here.

See FMA on Philippine TV here and here.

Photo credit: Rachel Grant’s official website

Is Stickfighting an art?

If you have trouble viewing the video, click here.

Oh, that was fast!

Well, what do you think? Was it funny? Do you agree? Do you take offense?

I have a mixed reaction.

At first, I didn’t think it was funny and I felt a little offended. Okay, I may lack a sense of humor but I just don’t like anyone calling anything Bu****it, even if they are just joking.

But the more I thought about this video the more I see that there are points that need to be addressed.

Some comments in Youtube said that the video was not funny because it was really saying the truth.

Stick fighting is not an art. It’s just whacking somebody with a stick. Anyone can do that.

Ohhhhh….okay. Let’s examine the issue.

Class, listen. Teacher Joy will explain:

What is art?

Art is a skill acquired by experience, observation, or study.

A skill is a learned power of doing something competently.

When you whack somebody’s head while he is unarmed and with his back on you, (like Bob, the dummy in the video), that’s not art. That’s aggression. Violence. Stick fighters don’t do that.

We use our stick fighting skill for self-defense when we are attacked.

In real life, attackers often carry some sort of weapon. Our stick fighting trains us to block, disarm, and subdue strong, angry, weapon-carrying attackers whether we ourselves are armed or not.

How about sword fighting or knife fighting, would you consider those art? You say yes? Stick fighters can easily do sword or knife fighting. But we are practical people. We know that blades can easily break during practice, so we use sticks instead. Observe how sticks are handled– it’s as if they were blades. Wise, huh?

We spend years training how to be fast, powerful, and efficient with our strikes; strong in our stances and footwork; and intelligent in our strategy.

Knowing who, what, why, where, and how to hit is a skill learned through experience, observation, and study.

Now, go back to the definition of art and answer this: Is stick fighting an art?

C’mon, I’d love an intelligent discussion about this. No bad words, please. 🙂

*******

The video does make a strong point. Look how efficient stickfighting is: you can DIE with just one hit.

Related posts:
Read what values stick fighters are taught here and here.

Interesting information about the above video:

Exclusive interview: Matt Page – The Mastermind of “Enter the Dojo” Karate Comedy Series / Karate by Jesse

Arnis is on Philippine TV these days!

There’s a handsome young man doing Arnis on a TV series these days.

He’s Coco Martin, playing the lead role in the primetime soap opera Juan dela Cruz.

Following the Twilight genre, his character fights against evil with a cross which turns into a whip, an arrow, a spear, or a sword as needed.

Most of the spear and sword scenes are… (drumroll please)… ARNIS!

I don’t watch TV and this horror-fantasy-drama genre doesn’t interest me at all.   So I can’t say that I’m endorsing the show.

But this, I sincerely say: Coco Martin, congratulations on the success of your show. I read in one article that you’re putting a lot of time and energy learning your fight scenes. Thank you for that. Arnis is awesome, right? I hope that you’ll  continue to train in it if or when Juan dela Cruz concludes.

And for the millions who watch this show, I say: when there are sword or spear scenes, look closely. It’s Arnis. The terrific moves are our own. They’re pinoy. Proudly pinoy.

Pugay!

*****************

Related posts:

A few years ago, Arnis was on TV also. See what happened here.

Watch the different moves in a fantastic Arnis demo here.

What is the soul of Arnis?

“The soul of Arnis is self defense, it is its reason for being.

Arnis is not for aggression nor for taking advantage of an untrained opponent. It is used only to defend one’s self when attacked.

Arnis should only be used by people who are by nature good at heart.”

—Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, Founder of Modern Arnis

in his book, Modern Arnis, Philippine Style of Stickfighting, 1974

*****************************

Related post: Last night, a Grandmaster made me feel guilty

Be nice to those who are trying Arnis

Gerald Anderson is one of the Philippines’ most popular young actors today.

A few years ago, he trained in Arnis for one of his TV series. I guess it was during one of his trainings that someone got a video and uploaded it in Youtube with the title “Arnis Demo.”

If you have trouble viewing the video, click HERE.

Soon after the upload, a barrage of negative comments came in. I suppose they were from people knowledgeable of Arnis:

“This is not Arnis!”

“terrible, just terrible”

“No principles of any of the Philippine martial arts were followed in this video. This Karateka needs to learn other arts before applying them!”

“wow that was the worst Arnis demo I have seen to date! A beginner on his first day could do better”

“ok so we’ll just have to wait after his dancing’s done then maybe he can demonstrate Arnis”

 “man i have been in martial arts 17 years and with the two years of fma that i got i could have put on a better demo”

Their contention was that he was disgracing Arnis and that people will be turned off.

I disagree.

He was an actor practicing for his TV show. His shortcomings are understandable and forgivable.

The Philippines has over 93 million people and more than half are 35 years old and younger. And just like in many other places in the world, those who are popular are often very influential. What they do, many will want to do also.

A few years ago, Running, Frisbee, and Football were not popular in the Philippines as they are now.

Of course there were many factors involved, but I think the fact that there were handsome young men who were into it, made many people take a closer look and then eventually go into them also.

Piolo Pascual for Running.

Derek Ramsay for Frisbee

Phil Younghusband for Football

If we, instead of insulting Gerald’s attempts, encouraged him to continue his Arnis training and show people that he’s into it, he would have helped promote our awesome sport. He would have been our face.

Now, who do we have??

My dear friends, next time a handsome young man tries Arnis, PLEASE TRY TO BE NICE TO HIM, OKAY?

Or, if you are a handsome young man, then… what are you waiting for?

Any comment?

Last night, a Grandmaster made me feel guilty

Many of you know that I am a newcomer in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). I’m not even a year into it yet but my head has already swollen!

You see, I spend a lot of time watching FMA videos on the net. (Too much time, I think, that I’m beginning to suspect hubby planning a curfew on my surfing soon). I’m hooked because I just adore the great skills many masters and practitioners show.

But there were also times when I raised my eyebrows, rolled my eyes, and smirked at some videos.

In my six months of training with my FMA instructor, Master Cris, I never heard him say anything derogatory about another martial artist nor did I ever observe him act smugly around anyone.

But me, newbie me (!), was arrogant enough to scoff at others.

That was exactly what I was doing late last night….

when suddenly, our internet server stopped working.

A little frustrated (I was enjoying my meanness), I picked up a book on my bedside table, one I have been reading on and off: Modern Arnis, Philippine Style of Stick Fighting by Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas.

As if he was writing directly to me, I read,

The cardinal principle in Arnis is respect for one’s opponent as a person, as a fighter, and as a sportsman….he is a human being  with dignity…worthy of respect.

I put the book down, affected by the timing of the message.

Respect…

Oh my…I feel guilty…

What am I doing?

Could I really go far if I continue in this proud, self-righteous path?

I don’t think so…

Hmmm…

After some serious thinking, I made a decision. For my own good, I’ll try to stop being smug. Instead, I’lI work on having an honest view of myself and remember GM Presas’s message:

Strive to always have a high regard for everyone. They are sportsmen, human beings with dignity, worthy of respect.

Thank you very much, Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas. Pugay po!

Six Life Lessons I Learned from the Filipino Martial Arts

3 January 2013. It rained the night before so the morning was cool for my first FMA session.

In a few days, I will mark my sixth-month of training in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA a.k.a. Arnis, Kali, or Eskrima).  Since I started, I have practiced with Master Cris once to twice a week, watched three tournaments, read and read, watched dozens of videos, and even started this blog.

My decision to go into it was largely influenced by my desire to get fit and to try something new. However, along the way, I realized numerous other benefits.  I found a new passion. I appreciated my heritage more. I made a lot of new friends. And learned some valuable lessons.

Here then are the six life lessons I learned from my first six months in FMA:

1. If you want new friends, find a new hobby. I have gained an entirely new group of friends. People whom I would never have known if I just stayed in my comfortable, predictable world. Hobbies give us a connection with others. They give us a a venue to communicate, build relationships, and enrich each other’s lives.

2. The simplest way is often the most effective. When the strikes are clear, the stances defined, the footwork unadorned, they are more focused and efficient. Each movement becomes purposeful and effective.  There is no wasted energy. Such is the same for life, we have to shed the excess. Remove unnecessary activities. Stop inappropriate relationships. Then our days will infinitely be more meaningful and … brilliant.

3. Be careful when choosing a mentor. Because of its complicated history and many other factors, the accreditation and classification systems of FMA are still somewhat arbitrary. There are people who pretend to be experts but actually are not. Their integrity are in question and they just cheat their students. In life, be careful and choose your mentors well.  Understand that they will have a  profound and long-lasting effect on your knowledge, attitudes, skills, and practices, a big factor to your success.

4. Humility makes a leader more persuasive. There are many FMA instructors but  those who choose to be humble and respectful are the ones who stand out. Many are attracted to their quiet self-confidence. Their disinterest in being loud and  proud makes their skills and technique shine brighter. When they speak, we listen. When they move, we pay attention.

5. Mastery takes time. Many say that one can learn a lot of FMA moves even in just a few weeks. Well, yes I agree. But for you to be a force to be reckoned with, as with almost everything else in life, you need to practice diligently for many years. Give yourself time to gain experience, sharpen your skills,  and earn credibility.

6. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it.  Ancient wisdom, still so true today. Enough said.

How about you? What life lessons do you have from your Art?

Good reads:

5 Life Lessons Learned from the Karate Kid / Nerd Fitness

49 Life Lessons from Bruce Lee, Tyler Durden, Rocky Balboa and Muhammad Ali / Chris McCombs

Personal videos I didn’t like at first…

My hubby seldom gets to see me practice. But one morning last month, as Master Cris and I were wrapping up our session, hubby arrived with a videocam! So we had this instant shoot.

I felt awkward and self conscious and hated it that my feet were glued to the ground. My arms and legs coordination was almost zero.

At first I posted these videos on youtube only thinking that nobody knows me there, unlike here where  I actually tell you about me.

Well, I’m changing my mind now because I know that in a few years, it will be good to review these and see how far I’ve gone. Right?

So here they are:

Sinawali Practice

Eskrima Practice

Finally, Look at how fast Master Cris’s moves are:

 

If you think Arnis is unimpressive, this video will change your mind

Arnis, aka Kali or Eskrima, is not popular in the Philippines, its country of origin: a sad fact with many long-standing reasons. Not many Filipinos understand and appreciate it. It’s sorely underrated.

So when my friends learn that I’m into Arnis now, many respond with a blank expression or a polite smile. It’s either they don’t know about it or they’re not really impressed. A few even say, “Huh, why that? Taekwondo or boxing are better.”

My answer?

Try to understand Arnis a bit and you’ll change your mind. You google all the time? Spend some time researching about it! 🙂

Take a look at this Youtube video I recently found: The Eskrima-Kali-Arnis Demonstration of the the Guba Doce Pares in London in June 2012. It will help you see how rapid, powerful, and practical Arnis is.

Grandmaster Daniel “Danny” Guba and his formidable team showed some (there are so many more) facets of Arnis:

• Single Stick
• Double Stick
• Form (Anyo)
• Empty Hands
• Staff/Spear
• Knife
• Stick and Knife

If you’re having trouble with the video, click HERE.

See what I mean? C’mon try Arnis!

Want more info?

Read this well researched post: What is arnis? / Lobo’s Blog

Watch this full-length movie: The Eskrimadors

Check out Jason Bourne’s fighting style here

What is Arnis?

If you are like me, hungry for anything about Arnis, this well-researched post will fill you up. I read it fast then went back and read it slowly. Tons of information. As in tons!

Lobo's Blog

It’s taken a while to write this up as I’m not familiar with this style. For a better picture of this martial art check out the Wikipedia entry here or better yet, try it out yourself. I’ve also written a follow up piece with my own thoughts on this style here.

The names Arnis, Kali and Eskrima are all labels of the same family of Filipino weapon-based martial arts. Whereas the origin of the term ‘Kali’ is uncertain, the word ‘Eskrima’ and ‘Arnis’ are of Spanish origin – Esgrima which means fencing, and Arnes meaning armour. Consequently, practitioners of this style are referred to as Arnisadores, Eskrimadores or Kalistas.

View original post 1,427 more words

Arnis Tournament Review: Why I’m proud in a sad kind of way

So, I did go to my first Arnis tournament and I must say, ADRENALINE was the word of the day.

I got tired just watching from the sidelines!

If I didn’t know any better, it would have looked like two street thugs in strange gear, whacking each other with sticks–to death!

It’s a good thing that before I went, I read the Sports Arnis rules and regulations (here and here), so I knew that the athletes were actually doing very complex techniques: strikes, footwork, body movements, blocking, and defending. They moved so fast and hit so hard that I couldn’t help but think that if this were a real fight, serious injury, or even death would be inevitable.

The referees and judges were alert (they had no choice!) and I looked with a fan’s admiration at how skilled they were knowing how to score such a fast sport.

A score for blue! I learned afterwards that these judges are all Arnis Masters. No wonder!

It took the whole day for the tournament to finish. A new experience for me.

Well, I have mixed feelings about it.

I feel proud about of our national sport. It is complex yet practical, deadly yet beautiful, ethnic yet universal. I’m grateful to the masters who developed it and passed it on to us. I’m grateful to the people who are into it now — they love it, learn it, and propagate it.

I just sort of feel sad about how underrated Arnis is in the Philippines. Many do not know much about it. My friends are always surprised that I went into Arnis. “Why not go into Taekwondo or Boxing?” they ask.They say that Arnis is impractical because it’s not always that you carry a stick. Oh, if they only knew! I understand that it’s not their fault that they have these misconceptions about arnis. There are many deep-rooted reasons, I know.

I also feel sad that the Arnis Grandmasters and Masters are not so appreciated here, not that they are looking for it. Most of the ones I know remain humble both in attitude and lifestyle.

For example, Philippine Martial Arts Hall of Fame awardees 8th Dan Grandmaster Vicente Sanchez  and 9th Dan Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc attended the tournament without much fanfare. They were quiet and unassuming, sitting on the benches with the rest of us! I’m almost sure that outside of Arnis, not many Filipinos know them.

GM Vicente Sanchez (in pink), GM Rodel Dagooc (in black), with my master Cris Pasindo

Very highly skilled. National treasures. Unsung heroes.

Hmmm… Oh well…

At least, with tournaments like the one I attended, more and more people will know and appreciate Arnis and its Grandmasters and Masters.

I just sincerely wish that there will come a time when Arnis would get the recognition it deserves, most importantly, here in its land of origin.

But whatever happens, Arnis, I want you to know: I am proud of you.

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Related posts:

• Announcement: 6th Arnis Pasindo Tournament
• 7th Arnis Pasindo tournament, click here, here, and here.
• Arnis Oaths of Sportsmanship (Filipino version)

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The Eskrimadors movie  briefly discusses why and how Dionisio Canete and the other eskrimadors decided to start tournaments (04:00). Very interesting! There are also video clips of the FIRST-EVER Arnis tournament (05:02).  Their sticks were not padded! To watch, click here.

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I thank these wise bloggers for their very articulate articles about Arnis misconceptions. I wholeheartedly agree with what they are saying.

“…only if you carry a stick with you…”/ Better Living Personal Development and Martial Arts

Ignorance, stereotypes, and misconceptions / Big Stick Combat Blog

A documentary film: Eskrimadors (Part 5 of 5)

Finally, we come to the conclusion of this informative documentary. I enjoyed watching and learning about this not-so-popular but very  practical martial art.

This last part is what I found the most touching, if not saddening. This is the part where the grandmasters talk about their love for Eskrima and their hopes of it being more respected and appreciated, especially in the Philippines.

Is it really true that Eskrima is more valued in other countries? If it’s true, how depressing.

Special message to my beloved countrymen: We have this treasure of a martial art. It is one of the fastest, deadliest, most complex yet practical in the world. Join me in learning it.

Part 5

I’m sorry but the video has been removed from Youtube due to a copyright claim by Joseph Kerwin Go. But here are my notes anyway. 

GM Dionisio “Diony” Canete
Doce Pares Multi-style System

There might be a technological transfer of the art from here to America and Europe, because there, when they train they train hard. 

This is the best time to realize its beauty and significance.

Me and my borthers were born with sticks in our hearts. It’s part of my life.

GM Bonifacio Uy
BDU Eskrima

Eskrima is still spreading far and wide but from what I see in tournaments here in Cebu, it is not as intense as before.

It’s more popular abroad than here at home. The younger generation aren’t interested. It is not good that it is disappearing slowly. We must cherish it because it is ours. It isn’t from anywhere else. It’s ours.

GM Nick Elizar
Nickelstrick Eskrima

If nobody makes an effort to promote Eskrima, then our love for FMA will die with us.

Eskrimadors who have gone before me are unsung heroes of our nation. If it weren’t for them, Filipinos won’t be known for their skill in martial arts.

Sometimes, I see people who no longer acknowledge that I taught them. But in the quiet depths of my heart, I’m happy to see them using what I taught them.

All I want is to share my knowledge with others so that my techniques can help them defend themselves and when I’m gone, they’ll remember that I was the one who taught them.  

GM Cacoy Canete
Cacoy Doce Pares

Eskrima is part of my life. I’m not planning to retire. How can I retire when I don’t want to retire?

In memory of Grandmasters:

• Liborio Heyrosa (1935-1995)
• Filemon Caburnay (1915-1992)
• Timoteo Maranga (1919-1988)
• Teofilo Velez (1917-1989)
• Vicente Carin (1922-2004)
• Eulogio Canete (1901-1988)
• Vicencio Bacon (1912-1981)
• Filemon Canete (1904-1995)

Dear Grandmasters, Thank you very much for your legacy. I hope someday soon you will be given the recognition that you deserve.

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Watch the whole series. Click the links below for the videos and my notes.

• Part 1
• Part 2
• Part 3
• Part 4

A documentary film: Eskrimadors (Part 4 of 5)

I’m sorry but the video has been removed from Youtube due to a copyright claim by Joseph Kerwin Go. But here are my notes anyway. 

Please click below my notes:

• Part 1
• Part 2
• Part 3

Here’s Part 4.  

San Nicolas, Pasil, Cebu

• a breeding ground of many eskrimadors (usually willing to fight just from bragging rights)

1970s

• FMA started becoming popular internationally
• Doce Pares invited to the US to demonstrate their skills at Dan Inosanto’s Filipino Kali Academy
• Eskrimadors, upon going back to the Philippines – decided to end the era of Juego Todo and band together to promote FMA and make it a sport
• 1976, Dionisio Canete and others – designed the first Eskrima gear and equipment then made tournament rules
• March 24, 1979 – First Philippine International Open Arnis Tournament

World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF) 

• the largest governing body for the promotion of FMA through sports
• holds world championships every two years with every second championship held in Cebu

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Watch this series:

• Part 1
• Part 2
• Part 3
• Part 4
• Part 5

A documentary film: Eskrimadors (Part 2 of 5)

Be sure to start with Part 1 😀

Part 2 (Too bad the video has since then been removed from Youtube due to a copyright claim by Joseph Kerwin Go.) But here are my notes anyway. 

• Clans developed and practiced their own Eskrima system
• different styles and techniques were tightly guarded secrets passed from generation to generation
• Take downs, blocks,disarms, locks – (very fast  and effective)

American colonial period – Filipinos were encouraged to practice their art (in this sense, thank you Americans!)

• Labangon Fencing Club (1920-1930); the first ever martial arts club in the Philippines

Doce Pares

• named after the twelve bodyguards of Emperor Charlemagne of France
• formed by twelve Eskrima masters
• each with a special style of his own (larga, media, corto, empty-hand, knife fighting, long blade or bolo)
• rivalry minimized
• Formerly highly secretive, each master now shared their technique with the others
• Eskrima brought to a higher level and became popular
• Filemon “Mamoy” Canete – chief instructor and guiding figure

Many eskrimadors were also healers who believed in charms, amulets and spoken prayers

Principle of the Live Hand (This is one of my favorite things about eskrima.)

• when the eskrimador wields only one weapon, the extra hand is used as a shield and/or checking hand.
• monitors, controls, and blunts the attacking weapon

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Watch this series:

• Part 1
• Part 2
• Part 3
• Part 4
• Part 5

Other interesting reads:

• Training the live hand/ Alliance Martial Arts
• The role of the “Alive Hand” in Arnis-Escrima / FMA Pulse
• Arnis – 10 Radical Truths / United Arnis