Monday, June 23, 2008

UNIVERSAL DEFENSIVE TACTICS TO BE LAUNCHED By: Jams U. Sy Jr.

The martial arts renaissance in Negros continues as a new self defense group will be formally launched and introduced to the public during the 1st Negros Fighting Arts Exposition this coming June 25, 2008 at the Fountain Area, Robinson’s Place Bacolod, Bacolod City as part of the ABS-CBN Kapamilya Fiesta in celebration of the 20th Year Celebration of the station’s Bacolod Office.

The Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) traces its roots to F.I.G.H.T. (Filipino Integrated Guerilla Hand to Hand Tactics), a group co-founded by Chairman Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. and Chief Instructor Rosyl “Russell” A. Mohametano last January 8, 2008 in Bacolod City with Dr. Leonilo “Nilo” N. del Carmen, Founder/Head Instructor of the Bacolod-based Musubi Dojo, as Consultant.

F.I.G.H.T. was formally introduced to the public thru a demonstration byGanzon and Ramel Vallajera at the 5th Negros Regional Tapondo Invitational Competition last May 25, 2008 at the Food Court Area, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City. The group practiced an eclectic syllabus which combined Mohametano’s Aikido and Ganzon’s Karate and Kimdo Taekwondo, at the Universal Health Caregivers Training Center.

This June, Ganzon and the Board Directors of the Universal Health Caregivers Training Center decided to assimilate F.I.G.H.T. into the caregiver school and turn it into the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA). UDTA is planned to handle the self defense course modules for the caregiver students of the Universal Health Caregivers Training Center.

The stockholders of the school wanted to equip their graduates with not only the expertise in caregiving but also in the skills of defending oneself against bodily harm. The Universal Health Caregivers Training Center has affiliate agencies overseas and a big number of their graduates are now working in Canada.

The Board Directors of the Universal Health Caregivers Training Center will be hiring instructors to teach the UDTA.Modules for empty hand skills, weaponswork, and defensive firearms.

Ganzon, who will serve as Founder/Chairman for UDTA, studied Karate under Bong-Bong Acot Sensei of Club 43, Taekwondo under Founder Joy T. Divinagracia of Kimdo Martial Arts Organization (KMAO), and Aikido under Chief Instructor Rosyl “Russell” A. Mohametano of Musubi Dojo-Himamaylan and Founder/Head Instructor Dr. Leonilo “Nilo” N. del Carmen of Musubi Dojo-Bacolod.

The Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) will be processing its application for membership with the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) headed by Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, Founder of Filipino Tang Soo Do.

Interested parties may contact Universal Health Caregivers Training Center (Tel. No. 434-1429) and/or Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (Tel. No. 453-1763) at #83A Cor. Rosario-Locsin Sts., Bacolod City.

BULIG SA KUBOS HELD By: James U. Sy Jr.

The Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main of Chief Instructor and Purok Bulak President Joery C. Amante in cooperation with various sponsors and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo successfully held the 2008 Bulig sa Kubos (Assistance to the Poor)-School Opening recently at the Amante Residence, Prk. Bulak, Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City.

Bulig sa Kubos is a pet project of Purok Bulak President Joery C. Amante for the benefit of the poverty-stricken members of the purok since the early part of the 2000s. This project is held semi-annually, one each for school opening and for Christmas.

The organizer of the outreach proagram managed to gathered notebooks, pad papers, bond papers, pencils, ballpens, sharpeners, plastic envelops, etc. to give out to 40 indigent recipients to assist them in the opening of classes.

The indigent recipients included Lorie Jean Almarel, Jeffrey Arnaiz, Monteza Bito-on, Riza Mae Bolo, Jessica Bordo, Lemuel Bornales, Mackey Bueva, Analou Cabalida, Joseph Cabalida, Ronart Chavez, Reylan Chua, Victoria de la Cruz, Trixia Dacutan, Jericho Dulin, Jansen Enema, Jade Esmalla, Bebing Flores, AJ Galang, Andrea Galang, Raffy Galang, Aljay de Guzman, Regen Ilamera, Dante Reynaldo Jacob, Kerbon Jacob, Ma. Liza Lapatan, Janet Lascoña, Jennifer Lascoña, Rodel Lascoña, Joebert Lascoña, Jonabel Lascoña, Patricia Palano, Eljie Parisan, Richard Pehid, Nice Ribbon, Marvin Santillan, Antonio Sevilla, Raymond Soldevilla, Maricar Villan, Mary Ann Villan, and John Michael Zulueta.

Sponsors were James U. Sy Jr, Mary Salve L. Pe, Hansy “Narciso” L. Alojado of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., Tess Golez, Rohnie Gonzalez, Emma Kaw, Marlyn Sobrepeña, and Dennis Tan of the University of St. La Salle (USLS), and Joselito Bianan, Climaco Lumanog, and Andres Villarmia of Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main.

Witnesses for the turnover ofd the school supplies to the recipients were Purok Bulak President and BFMAA-Main Chief Instructor Joery C. Amante, Religious Affair Committee Member Analyn Amante, PIO Purok Bulak Georgia Baluyot, Purok Bulak Kagawad Generose Arana, and Purok Bulak Auditor Dexter Alegre.

GOLDEN KATANA WOMEN’S KICKBOX FED FOUNDED By: James U. Sy Jr.

The Golden Katana Women’s Kickboxing Federation (GKWKF) was founded by Masters Carmelino “Jun” Rojo Jr., 4th Degree Black Belt, of the Octagon Martial Arts, Joery C. Amante, 4th Degree Black Belt, of Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main, and Ricardo P. Filipinas, 5th Degree Black Belt, and Arthur A. Alvañez, 3rd Degree Black Belt, of Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Footfighting (SKAFF) recently in Bacolod City.

Today, the number of women taking up the martial arts is increasing and a good number of them had decided to take the competitive path. However, males still dominate existing martial arts organizations and as such, programs are based on masculine standards.

The Fouders of GKWKF had been operating their own groups before and were propagating Kickboxing and allied arts until they decided to band together to form an organization that will address this void of furthering women’s interest in the martial sport of Kickboxing or Sipa Sumbag as it is known in the local vernacular.

The newly formed federation conducted their inagural tournament, the 1st GKWKF Bacolod Women’s Kickboxing Tournament last May 18, 2008 at Villa Lucasan, Brgy. Mandalagan and on May 24, 2008 at the Negros Occidental Multi-Purpose Activity Center (NOMPAC), Bacolod City.

May 18, 2008 Results: Jilyn Quirante of OMA over Rhea Bantiling of SKAFF. Rolanda Casubong of OMA and Ma. Cristina Bianan of BFMAA-Main fought to a draw. Renalyn “Ren-Ren” Jacob of BFMAA-Main over Annabelle Valderama of SKAFF via RSC at 0.46 of the 2nd round. Jenelyn M. Rojo of SKAFF over Rose Ann Sedorio of PKO.

Nico Aguirre of SKAFF over Ivan Joquino of PKO. Angelito Chavez of BFMAA-Main over Robert Lachica. Ildefonso Camelo of OMA over John Mark Bosico of BFMAA-Main. Janry Amante of BFMAA-Main ove Shalom Joquino of OMA. Dennis D. Iligan of SKAFF over Michael Ellamar of OMA. Eric Jim Cadagat of SKAFF over Herman Solano of OMA. Billy Rojo of OMA and John Ray Penit of PKO fought to a draw. Jonvi of OMA and Mhil Guardiano of PKO fought to a draw. Puerto Española of SKAFF over John Molina of PKO.

Officials: Master Carmelino “Jun” Rojo Jr. of the Octagon Martial Arts, Master Joery C. Amante of Black Falcon Martial Arts Association-Main, Master Ricardo P. Filipinas of Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Footfighting, and Arthur A. Alvañez Sensei of Shotokan Karate (Tournament Organizers); Prk. President Ricardo Malaga, Kagawad Ely Mejorada, and Kagawad Jun Cenon, all of Villa Lucasan and all practitioners of Karate and Boxing (Judges); Kagawads Eden Dumagais and Roy Navarete (Table Officials), and Founder Edson Daut of Pentagon Karate Organization (Guest Instructor).

Founding members of the Golden Katana Women’s Kickboxing Federation (GKWKF) are Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main (founded 1970s), February 24, 2008 (founded November 1, 1980), Pentagon Karate Organization (founded May 20, 1983) of Founder Edson Daut, Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Footfighting (founded 1980s), and Scorpion Friendship Athletic Group (founded 1985) of Founder/Chief Instructor Sonny Villagonzalo.

Last February 24, 2008, February 24, 2008 organized an OMA Goodwill Kickboxing Sparring Match Ups and Rank Promotions at Hda. Zaragosa, Central Ma-ao, Bago City which was supported by BFMAA-Main, PKO, and SFAG.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

CINCO DE NOVEMBRE ARNIS TILT PLANNED By: James U. Sy Jr.

The Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA) under Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa and President Eliseo T. Yanong Sr. are currently laying plans to conduct an Arnis tournament this coming November 5, 2008 to jive with Bago City ’s celebration of the historic Cinco de Novembre.

The proposed Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) tournament will be using Arnis Philippines rules and will be under the sanction of Arnis Philippines (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter of Commissioner Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo “Pope” C. Jalandoon, Ph.D.

NUFAA, in cooperation with and with the full support of the Office of the Bago City Mayor under Hon. Ramon D. Torres and the SK Federation-Bago City under President Eliseo T. Yanong Jr., had conducted two successful Arnis tournaments for the first half of the year, the 1st and 2nd NUFAA-SK Bago City Invitational Arnis Tournament held last February 17, 2008 at the Bago City Community Center and May 31, 2008 at the Bago City College (BCC) Campus Grounds, Brgy. Balingasag respectively.

NUFAA took the overall championship in both tournaments as well as during the
1st ArPi-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Goodwill Tournament (May 18, 2008, Casino Filipino Hotel) and the 2nd Western Visayas Invitational Sports Arnis Tournament (May 10-11, 2008, Robinson’s Place Bacolod).

Expected allied organizations expected to support the tournament include
Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) of Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” Cardinal, Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, Sikaran Garrote Arnis Club of Grandmaster Romeo “Roming” Postrano, Tribu hangaway of Master Roy R. Flores Sr., Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc. of Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Foudners/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, among others.

Arnis Philippines is the National Sport Association for Arnis and the sole governing body for the Filipino Martial Art (FMA) recognized by the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).

SAMBUWA SA LANGKA HELD By: Jams U. Sy Jr.

The 2008 Sambuwa sa Langka Invitational Boxing Tournament was successfully held by the Jamili Boxing Club of Gil “Dodong” Jamili and Richard Jamili with the sponsorship of the Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc. of 1st Generation Inheritor Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Master Clodualdo M. “Budoy” Lobrido, and Kagawad Romeo “Tokong” Mamar Jr. and under the sanction of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of President Master Elmer V. Montoyo recently at the Cockpit, Prk. Langka, Brgy. Taloc, Bago City as part of the purok’s annual fiesta celebration.

Amateur boxers from Prk. Langka, Prk. Newton, and Brgy. Sum-ag fought in 9 bouts.

Results: Rom-Rom Nobleza and Rom-Rom fought to a draw. Jep-Jep Delgado of Sum-ag and Donli Gabales of Sum-ag fought to a draw. Rom-Rom of Newton and Pebril Prado of Newton fought to a draw. Rogen Prado of Newton over Donli Gabales of Sum-ag. Jep-Jep Delgado of Sum-ag and Vinat Cosio of Newton fought to a draw. Elmer Rasa of Langka over Kim Salma of Langka. Dagol Gregorio of Langka over Jomar Tario of Sum-ag. Pablito Nagukay of Langka and Bingo Delgado of Sum-ag fought to a draw. Rigor Gregorio of Newton and Nicon Fecma fought to a draw.

Officials were Gil “Dodong” Jamili and Richard Jamili (Organizers/Referees), Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Master Clodualdo M. “Budoy” Lobrido, and Kagawad Romeo “Tokong” Mamar Jr. of Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association, Inc. (Sponsors), and Founders Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado and James U. Sy Jr. and OFT SI Joeffrey S. Deriada of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (Event Coverage).

Lunch followed at the Lobrido Residence.

The Jamili Boxing Club and the Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc., both members of IFFMAS, first partnership was with the 1st Brgy. Taloc Martial Arts Showdown and the 2007 Sambuwa sa Langka Invitational Boxing Tournament held last April 20, 2007 at Prk. Langka, Brgy. Taloc, Bago City .

TAPONDO PROMOTIONS MADE By: James U. Sy Jr.

Six members of Tapondo International Federation Inc. (TIFI)-Negros Chapter took part in a mass examination conducted by Negros Chief Instructor Roy R. Flores Sr., 6th Degree, last May 31, 2008 at the TIFI-Negros Gen. HQ, 2F Golden Heritage Bldg., San Juan St., Bacolod City.

Those who took the exams and passed were Almar Mariano of Toboso (2nd degree), Dodgie Flores, Joseph Ong, and Jussell Torres of Bacolod (Brown Belt), Ariel Guanzon of Escalante (Blue Belt), and Ana Erika Gumban of Bacolod (Green Belt). The examinations were conducted under the sanction of Tapondo International Federation Inc. (TIFI) under Tapondo Founder Master Ambrosio “Monching” Gavileño

Mass examinations had been conducted periodically since a year after TIFI-Bacolod was organized by Chief Instructor Flores in 2001. The first mass examination was conducted by the founder himself, who traveled from Manila to Bacolod . Today, TIFI is the largest Aikido group in Negros Occidental and the one with the most black belts (not less than 28). It has chapters in Bacolod , Calatrava, Escalante, Sagay, Silay, Talisay, Toboso, and San Carlos .

To continuously heighten the students’ skills, TIFI-Bacolod had held the 5th Negros Regional Tapondo Invitational Competition last May 25, 2008 at the Food Court Area, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall , Araneta St. , Bacolod City which was participated in by various chapter in Western Visayas .

Tapondo International Federation Inc. (TIFI)-Negros Chapter is a member of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) of Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of President Master Elmer V. Montoyo.

GM GUARRA TURNS 75 By: James U. Sy Jr.


P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” Terante Guarra, one of the few remaining active old time Eskrimadors in Negros Occidental, celebrated his 75th birthday together with his family and friends last May 19, 2008 at the Guarra Residence in Lag-asan, Bago City . About 200 well wishers came and participated in the festivities, which was held in time with the annual Lag-asan fiesta.
(Master Joel Casiple in conversation with the birthday celebrant, GM Eslao Guarra during IFFMAS induction ceremony)
Among his guests were Arnisadors from Central Negros including Grandmasters Isaac “Saac” T. Guarra of Arjuka-Malingin, Atty. Col. Marcelo D. Jalandoon of Negros Occidental Baston Federation, Judge Demosthenes Magallanes, Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido of Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association Inc., Danilo “Danny” Cardinal of KaliSilat Arnis Association, Jose “Joe” Mancesa of Negros United Fighting Arts (NUFAA), and Felix A. Guinabo of Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports, etc.

Eslao Guarra was born to Grandmaster Cornelio “Kune” Toledo Guarra and Luisa T. Terante on May 19, 1933 in Bago City . He was the 7th of 13 siblings composed of 7 boys and 6 girls. All the Guarra children were trained in their father’s and his group’s fighting arts locally known as Herada Redoble or Espada y Daga. The young Eslao started his training in the 12 methodos of Espada y Daga from his father as well as his 7 friends.

The young Guarra went on to study under different professors of Arnis, 20 of them in all. Among his teachers were Grandmasters Guillermo “Guimo” Yasay, Alfredo “Pedong” Yasay, and Constantino Arca (Ofensa Defensa/Yasay Sable), Claro Alvarez (Saber), Esmael “Maing” Alvarez (Saber), Senyong, Reynaldo Cabinta of Bukidnon (Disarming), Homero Sian (Fencing), Anong Abellana (Judo), Casimiro “Chingi” A. Grandeza (Karate), Juan Recomura, Jose Garganera, Sulpecio Fernea (Herada Batangueña), Tatang Balat of Pampanga, etc.

On February 20, 1956, Guarra, then 22, started his 32 years service in the Bago City Integrated National Police (INP). Guarra had served as a training staff of the Bago City Police Station, having trained auxiliary police in all barangays of Bago City . Within his illustrious career he had received many awards and commendations.

Master Guarra had served as Security Officer and ROTC Tactical Officer at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R). He started teaching Arnis publicly in around 1970. He retired as a multi-decorated police sergeant on May 19, 1998 and by that time had already taught arnis to more than 10,000 barangay tanods, police officers, security guards, and civilians.

GM Guarra emphasizes in his school that Arnis is not meant to bully fellow human beings and to boast but must serve as a tool of personal defense of life and honor. He also warns students of drinking while training and indulging in prohibited drugs.

GM Guarra is currently the Founder/Grandmaster/President of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis (formerly the the Gen. Juan A. Araneta School of Arnis), Vice President-South Negros for Negros Occidental Baston Federation of President Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo D. Jalandoon, Ph.D., of Talisay City, Vice President-Internal Affairs for the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under President Master Elmer V. Montoyo of Bacolod City, Consultant for the International Modern Arnis Federation Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter, and Board Director for Arnis Philippines (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter.

GM Guarra’s personal history and style was first put to writing by Rev. Fr. Jerson Balitor, then Parish Priest of Ma-ao, Bago City , himself a researcher and accomplished expert of the martial arts. GM Guarra was first introduced extensively to the general public by Negros’ premier martial arts historian/writer James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., through his various works starting with the 3-part series “The Best Arnisadors of Negros: GM Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra” which was published on the May 16-22, 2004 issue of Negros Weekly and culminating with the international feature “Guarra Style Modern Arnis: Modern Style Rooted in Tradition” published in the Vol. 10 No. 4 issue (2006) of the Rapid Journal, the one and only and longest running martial arts publication in the Philippines.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

VERA LOSES BY CONTROVERSIAL DECISION By: James U. Sy Jr.

Fil-Am Brandon “The Truth” Vera expereicnced a setback in his rising Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) career when he lost by a controversial decision against Fabricio Werdum of Brazil during the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 85: Bedlam last June 8, 2008 at the O2 Arena, London, England.

Vera, the son of a Filipino father and an Italian mother, dominated the reigning world Jiu-jitsu champion with strikes during the stand up before the fight went to the ground and Werdum secured the mounted position and started pummeling Vera with ground and pound punches. The 30 year old Vera was covering up against the punches with his forearms when the referee stepped in and stopped the fight at about 20 seconds before the end of the 1st round. Vera had Werdum early on with his strikes. Vera was shocked and the crowd booed the decision.

The Referee has the discretion to stop the fight if he sees a fighter not being able to defend himself intelligently and/or is in danger of being injured. But the video showed Vera maintaining his composure and absorbing the blows with his forearms. Vera was telling the referee he was OK but it seemed that the referee misinterpreted it. Vera wanted a rematch with the Brazilian.

Vera, who wore the Philippine national colors in his shorts, entered the arena to the sound of the Filipino-inspired song Bebot written and sung by Fil-Am Apl-d-App of Black Eye Peas. He was featured at Sports Unlimited last June 9, 2008.

In an awaited fight of the night, the young and aggressive Thiago Alves of Brazil bloodied defeated 2 times UFC welterweight champion Matt Hughes of the USA . A flying knee signaled the start of the end for Hughes in the 2nd round. Hughes, who is known for submitting 3 times UFC champion Royce Gracie of Brazil , fell to 43-7. Alves improved to 21-4.

JACOB BRINGS HOME NAT’L BOXING SILVER By: James U. Sy Jr.

Barely a month after being crowned as champion of the Senior Women’s Sanshou 56 Kg. category at the recently concluded 2008 Philippine National Wushu Championships, Reynalyn “Ren-Ren” C. Jacob of the Black Falcon Martial Arts Association-Main (BFMAA-Main) took home a silver medal at the PLDT-Smart National Open Youth and Women's Amateur Boxing Championships last May 3-10, 2008 at Robinson's Place Iloilo, Iloilo City.

Jacob, who was in her first outing for a national level Boxing event, gave her best in the championship bout but had to bow out to Twinkle Mae J. Guarde of Cotabato and settled for the silver.

After the bout, Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) Coach and Olympic bronze medalist Roel Velasco of Bago City approached Jacob and invited her to join the Philippine Team and offered a scholarship for her.

Jacob started Sipa Sumbag and Wushu Sanshou under Chief Instructor Joery C. Amante of the Black Falcon Martial Arts Association-Main (BFMAA-Main), who is also the Negros Occidental Coordinator for the Wushu Federation of the Philippines (WFP), on September 26, 2006 in Bacolod City . Since then she had fought in Bacolod , Bago, Hinigaran, Iloilo City , Manila , San Carlos , and Victorias .

Jacob took the silver during the 2007 Philippine National Wushu Championships and won the championship title during the 2008 edition of the event by demolishing Rhoda Mae Doncillo of the Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts, Inc. (ITSMAI) via 2nd round TKO.

She was crowned champion of the Women’s Juniors 53 Kg. category during the 3rd Iloilo National Wushu Sanshou Championships “Cong. Raul Gonzales Cup” last January 25, 2006 at SM City Iloilo by dominating 2005 National Wushu Sanshou bronze medallist Marianne Jaromahum of the Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts, Inc. (ITSMAI) via 2nd round RSC. She also won the gold at the 2006 Negros Island Wushu Sanshou Eliminations. She was the first female fighter to be sent by BFMAA-Main to the Philippine National Wushu Sanshou Training Pool in Manila .

Jacob is a proud member of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) through the Black Falcon Martial Arts Association-Main (BFMAA-Main).

Jacob was born on March 14, 1992 and is the eldest and the only girl of 3 siblings by Dante P. Jacob and Melody Consejo-Jacob.

Monday, June 9, 2008

NUFAA TOPS ARNIS PHILS. TILT By: James U. Sy Jr.


In 3 weeks time, the Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA) under Grandmaster Jose "Joe" Mancesa and President Eliseo T. Yanong Sr., was crowned overall champion for the 3rd time during the 2nd NUFAA-SK Bago City Invitational Arnis Tournament held with the full support of Hon. Mayor Ramon D. Torres and the SK Federation-Bago City under President Eliseo T. Yanong Jr. last May 31, 2008 at the Bago City College (BCC) Campus Grounds, Brgy. Balingasag, Bago City .

Six Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) organizations from Bago and Bacolod Cities converged at the event to give Arnis demonstrations, officiate, and compete in 6 bouts using standard Arnis Philippines, Inc. (ArPi) rules. The tournament was sanctioned by Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter under Commissioner Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and supported by member organizations of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) of President/GM Jalandoon and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of President/Master Elmer V. Montoyo.

Demonstrations: Grandmaster Danilo "Danny" Cardinal and his son Danny John Cardinal of KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) demonstrated Likha Anyo Solo Baston and Tapi-Tapi.

Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS), with the help of Grandmaster Romeo "Roming" Postrano of the Sikaran Garrote Arnis Club (SGAC), demonstrated the classical styles of Espada y Daga and the Trese Grabes Piga-Piga System.

The Sikaran Garrote Arnis Club (SGAC) of Grandmaster Romeo "Roming" Postrano and its chapter club, the Garrote Arnis Club (GAC) of Master Roy Postrano performed their Juego Todo style of Arnis through anyo and doble baston.

Host Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA) was led by Grandmaster Jose "Joe" Mancesa in demonstrating Siquete, Aponlada, Valor, Whipping, and Doble Baston. The NUFAA demo team was composed of GM Mancesa, John Melchor Barsibal, Yvonne De La Cruz, Stevie John "Jan-Jan" Doctora, Vina Mancesa, and Pao-Pao Tagum. Noteworthy of the group's demo was the performance of 3-years old Barsibal, a grandson of GM Mancesa. At such an early age, the boy showed potential.

Overall Champion: Bago City 's Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA) of Grandmaster Jose "Joe" Mancesa (4-1). 2nd Place : Garrote Arnis Club (GAC) of Master Roy Postrano (1-2). 2nd Place : KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo "Danny" Cardinal (1-1). 4th Place : Sikaran Garrote Arnis Club (SGAC) of Grandmaster Romeo "Roming" Postrano (0-2).

Results: Yves Birondo of KAA, 53 Kg., over Roy Postrano of GAC, 57 Kg. Rodrigo Claridad Jr. of GAC over Francis Marfil of NUFAA. Edgardo Doctora of NUFAA, 45 Kg., over Allan Pacheco of KAA, 45 Kg. Romulus Ballentes of NUFAA, 52 Kg., over Anthony Magbanua of SGAC, 52 Kg. John Carlo Bagatela of NUFAA, 54 Kg., over Ran-Ran Albana of GAC, 53 Kg. Stevie John Doctora of NUFAA, 60 Kg., over Jeremiah Postrano of SGAC, 61 Kg.

NUFAA, a founding member of IFFMAS and a member of Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter, was previously crowned overall champion during the 2nd Western Visayas Invitational Sports Arnis Tournament (May 10-11, 2008, Robinson's Place Bacolod, 4-0-1) and the 1st Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Goodwill Tournament (May 18, 2008, Casino Filipino Hotel-Bacolod, 5-3-0).

Stevie John Doctora of NUFAA took the gold medal in both events; Eduardo Doctora Jr., gold and silver in that order; John Carlo Bagatela, gold and bronze; and Vina Mancesa, gold and silver. Romulus Vallentes took the gold in the ArPi event while Yvonne de la Cruz got the bonze in the WV event.

Officials: Hon. Bago City Mayor Ramon D. Torres (Sponsor), Grandmaster Jose "Joe" Mancesa and President Eliseo T. Yanong Sr. (Tournament Organizers), Brgy. Capt. Vicente Maquiling 9Special Guest), Grandmaster Danilo "Danny" Cardinal of KaliSilat Arnis Association (Head of Officiating Team/Referee), Grandmasters Romeo "Roming" Postrano of the Sikaran Garrote Arnis Club and Felix A. Guinabo of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports, Masters Gualberto Dajao and Elizalde Aspan of KAA, and Master Stephen Francis Diaz of Guarra Style Modern Arnis (Judges/Referees), Prof. Wilson A. Alvarado of NUFAA (Emcee), Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society, Inc. (Event Coverage), and Pastor Raymund Legazpi (Invocation).

TAPUNGULAY PRK. BULAK HELD By: James U. Sy Jr.

The 9th San Lorenzo Ruiz Village (SLRV)/Prk. Bulak Martial Arts Competition “Tapungulay sa Prk. Bulak” was successfully held by the Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main of Chief Instructor Joery C. Amante, 4th Degree, under the sanction of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of master Elmer V. Montoyo, 6th Degree, last May 25, 2008 at the Prk. Bulak Covered Court, Prk. Bulak, brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City.

Competing teams include BFMAA, Octagon Martial Arts (OMA) of Founder/Chief instructor Carmelino “Jun” Rojo Jr., Prk. Bulak, and Kabankalan.

Results: Nonoy de la Cruz of Prk. Bulak over Alex Santillan of Prk. Bulak. Jade Esmalla of Prk. Bulak over Christon Sevilla of Prk. Bulak. Mark Padasoy of Prk. Bulak over Shane Andre Bandanillo of Prk. Bulak. Ren Ren Inodeo of Prk. Bulak over Wilfredo Chavez of Prk. Bulak. Jun-Jun Amante of BFMAA-Main over Ivan Vega of Prk. Bulak. Toliloy Escora of Prk. Bulak over Alvin Santillan of Prk. Bulak. 46 Kg.: Angelito Chavez of BFMAA-Main over John Rey Penit of OMA.

Main Events: 50 Kg.: Jimboy Mayang of Bantayan, Kabankalan over Shalom Joquino of OMA. 53 Kg.: Janry Amante of BFMAA-Main won over Christopher Molina of OMA. 56 Kg.: Julius Dohinog of BFMAA-Main won over Julius Alipato of OMA.

Amanate, who serves as Prk. Bulak President, holds the San Lorenzo Ruiz Village (SLRV)/Prk. Bulak Martial Arts Competition semi-annually to encourage the youth to channel their energies into more fruitful pursuits and to keep them away from drugs. Over the years Amante had helped less fortunate youths have opportunities for upliftment through the martial arts. He had sent several teens to the Philippine national Wushu Championships in Manila since 1997 and entered some of them to the National Training Pool.

SACRED KI ART OF FIL FOOTFIGHTING TOPS KICKBOX TILT By: James U. Sy Jr.


The Golden Katana Women's Kickboxing Federation (GKWKF) under President/Co-Founder Arthur A. Alvañez successfully held the 1st Bacolod Women's Kickboxing Tournament last May 24, 2008 at the Negros Occidental Multi-Purpose Activity Center (NOMPAC), Bacolod City. Bouts were fought for the Women's and Men's Divisions.

Overall Champion: Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Footfighting (SKAFF) of Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas with 9 wins. Other organizations who supported the event were Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main of Chief Instructor Joery C. Amante and Octagon Martial Arts (OMA) of Founder/Master Carmelino "Jun" Rojo Jr.

Declared champions for SKAFF were Jenelyn M. Cordero, Christine Magaro (by default), and Zenna Marie M. Tolero (Women's Division) and Franz Burgos, Puerto Española, Charles Filipinas, James Omale, Froilan Trespeces, and Christopher B. Yanson (by default) (Men's Division). Cordero defeated Ma. Cristina Bianan of BFMAA-Main.

Jenelyn M. Cordero and Puerto Española together with Nico Aguirre, Eric Jim Cadagat, and Dennis Elisan were also crowned champions in another Kickboxing tournament the previous week at Abkasa, Brgy. Mandalagan.

Champions for BFMAA-Main were Reynalyn "Ren-Ren" Jacob and Roselyn Montecino.

Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Footfighting (SKAFF) and Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main are founding member of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS), where Master Ricardo P. Filipinas, 6th Degree, and Chief Instructor Joery C. Amante, 4th Degree, serve as Auditor and Board Director respectively. (Acknowledgements to Mr. Filipinas and Amante for providing the info for this news).

FALCONS, WARRIORS BRING HOME NAT'L WUSHU MEDALS By: James U. Sy Jr.

Two member-organizations of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) affiliated with the Wushu Federation of the Philippines (WFP) took home a 2-0-5 medal harvest at the 2008 Philippine National Wushu Championships recently at the Music Hall, SM, Mall of Asia.

The Black Falcon Martial Arts Association-Main (BFMAA-Main) of Chief Instructor and WFP-Negros Occidental Coordinator Joery C. Amante snatched 1 gold and 3 bronze medals while Tribu Hangaway (TH) of Founder/Master and WFP-Oriental Negros Coordinator Roy R. Flores Sr. brought in 1 gold and 2 bronze for Bacolod and Negros Occidental.

Reynalyn "Ren-Ren" Jacob of BFMAA-Main, a competitor for the Juniors Women's 56 Kg. category, had to compete in the Seniors bracket for a lack of entries in her class. She dominated Rhoda Mae Doncillo of the Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts, Inc. (ITSMAI)/West Visayas State University (WVSU) in the championship bout before the former won by TKO (Retirement) in the 2nd round.

Jacob was crowned champion of the Women's Juniors 53 Kg. category during the 3rd Iloilo National Wushu Sanshou Championships "Cong. Raul Gonzales Cup" last January 25, 2006 at SM City Iloilo. She took the silver during the 2007 Philippine National Wushu Championships and is the first female fighter to be sent by BFMAA-Main to the Philippine National Wushu Sanshou Training Pool.

2007 LGDC Negros Regional Wushu Sanshou champion Rosendo Trayco III of BFMAA-Main defeated Jerome Wanawan of powerhouse Baguio in an elimination bout in the Seniors Men 52 Kg. category but lost the silver-match.

Trayco's teammate, Kickboxing, Wushu Sanshou, and MMA champion Andres Villarmia, beat Franklin Lorana of the Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts, Inc. (ITSMAI) in the Seniors Men 60 Kg. class but failed to go past the silver-match.

John Mark Bosico of BFMAA-Main took the bronze in the Juniors Men's 52 Kg. category while his teammate Julius Dohinog lost his first bout in the Seniors Men's 48 Kg. class.

2007 LGDC Negros Regional Wushu Sanshou champion Virginia Dacumos of Tribu Hangaway dominated Rubylene Liblib of Baguio and Edna Sobrevega of the Iloilo Tinagan School of Martial Arts, Inc. (ITSMAI) to be crowned champion in the Women's 52 Kg. category.

2007 LGDC Negros Regional Wushu Sanshou silver medallist and Tribe W.A.R. II champion Sheila Asdolo (Women's 48 Kg.) and Jonathan Alingasa (Men's 48 Kg.) of Tribu Hangaway defeated Charmie Rose Mendez and Armado Benito of Baguio respectively but settled for bronze when they lost their nest bout.

JUFIMAC M.A. TILT A SUCCESS By: James U. Sy Jr.

The San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay, a member of the Combat Taekwondo Club (CTC)-Main of Founder/Master Lt. Col. Epefanio F. Mercado Sr. and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of Master Elmer V. Montoyo, in cooperation with the sponsorship of Hon. Kagawads Johnny Baran, Gregorio Broce, and Gina Esperancilla and in cooperation with Fatima Village Homeowners Association President Ramil Palabrica, Fatima Village Teachers Association President Renante Chavez, Fatima Village Christian Association President Roque Cosio, Fatima Village Youth and Women's Association, and Alfredo Salvilla successfully held the 6th SACA JUFIMAC Martial Arts Tournament last May 11, 2008 at the Fatima Village, Brgy. Rizal, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.

The tournament was held as part of the Our Lady of Fatima Annual Fiesta celebration. As usual with IFFMAS tournaments, the event featured a multi-discipline format of competition. It had bouts for Taekwondo, Western Boxing, Sipa Sumbag (Kickboxing), and Wushu Sanshou.

The event was supported by SACA JUFIMAC-Main, Brgy. Guadalupe, and Pontevedra Chapters, CEFIMAC-CNC Chapter, Ritarians Martial Arts Club (RMAC), Combat Taekwondo Club (CTC)-Main of Founder/Master Lt. Col. Epefanio F. Mercado Sr., Roaring Panthers Self-Defense Society (RPSDS) of Founder/Chief Instructor Ricaredo C. Panunciar, White Crane Martial Arts of Founder/Chief Instructor Wilfredo Teleron, and the various association of Fatima Village.

Taekwondo. Kiddies Boys Category A: Lester John Tacugue of Greenville Elementary School over Charles Eddo Caballes of Cong. Vicente Gustilo Memorial Elementary School. Secondary Girls Finweight: Rosalyn Lopez of CEFIMAC-CNC Chapter over Mary Ann Buhat of Julio Ledesma National High School. Junior Boys: Rafael Lapaz Jr. of Greenville Elementary School/SACA JUFIMAC over Rene Rebido of San Juan Village Phase 3/SACA JUFIMAC. Junior Boys Bantamweight: Erwin Garing of SACA JUFIMAC over Henry Villacampa Jr. of SACA JUFIMAC-Brgy. Guadalupe Chapter. Finweight: Michael Villacampa Jr. of SACA JUFIMAC-Brgy. Guadalupe Chapter over Rollie Tacugue of Villacampa Jr. of SACA JUFIMAC-Main.

Boxing Special Bout: James Patoc of SACA JUFIMAC-Brgy. Guadalupe Chapter over Michael Tanginan of SACA JUFIMAC-Main.

Kickboxing Special Bout 50 Kg.: Rene Ortiz of Greenville Subd./SACA JUFIMAC-Main Over Ruel Panoncillo of Fatima Village Phase 1/SACA JUFIMAC-Main.

Wushu Sanshou Bout 56 Kg: Warren Songahid of Roaring Panther Self Defense Society over Bernardo Pardillo of SACA JUFIMAC.

Officials: Founder Lt. Col. Epefanio F. Mercado Sr. of CTC-Main (Tournament Director), Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay of SACA JUFIMAC (Tournament Organizer), Johnmar Palabrica (Referee/Judge), Chief Instructor Ernie Tranilla of CTC-Main and Instructor Joelito Pardillo of White Crane Martial Arts (Judges), Founder/Chief Instructor Wilfredo Teleron of WCMAC (Emcee), Estrelita M. Sabijon of SACA JUFIMAC (Table Official), Tirso Pardillo (Timer), Jose Gregorio Baguioro and Coordinator Reynan Tullaga of SACA JUFIMAC-Pontevedra Chapter (Matching Official).

SACA JUFIMAC was crowned overall champion during the 1st Canlaon City Modern Combat Taekwondo Invitational Inter Club Tournament organized by the Modern Combat Taekwondo Club-Canlaon Chapter of Chief Instructor Joerdan Oca last March 8, 2008 at the Canlaon Cultural Center, Canlaon City, Oriental Negros.

SACA JUFIMAC was the first to introduce Wushu Sanshou in San Carlos City on March 15, 2005 and was instrumental in bringing together instructors from different styles and schools to work together for the propagation of the various arts in a time when the martial arts were in a slump in San Carlos City.

SACA JUFIMAC is also an affiliate of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso "Hansy" L. Alojado (Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis section) and the Visayas Full Contact Martial Art Federation (Cebu) of Master Florentino Aligang

NEGROSANONS SHINE IN WV ARNIS TILT By: James U. Sy Jr.

Arnisadors from Bago, Bacolod, and Sagay Cities showed their wares and took home medals for the province during the 2nd Western Visayas Invitational Sports Arnis Tournament held last May 10-11, 2008 at Robinson's Place Bacolod, Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City .


The Hon. Mayor Ramon D. Torres-sponsored Bago Team, represented by the Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA) of Grandmaster Jose "Joe" Mancesa, was crowned overall champion with 4 gold and 1 bronze medals.

The Bacolod ( Main ) and Sagay Chapters of Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), Inc. of P/SUPT. (Ret.) Grandmaster Ibarra "Baring" E. Lopez got a combined medal tally of 3-3-3. The KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo "Danny" Cardinal and Tribu Hangaway of Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. had harvests of 2-2-1 and 0-0-2 respectively.

Labanan - Men's 65 Kg.: Stevie John Doctora of NUFAA (Gold), Climaco Lumanog of KAA (Silver), Joicent Dec Alcabaza of ACLC Bacolod (Bronze). Women's 52 Kg.: Vina Mancesa of NUFAA (Gold), Aileen Lamayo of Talisay Arnis Unlimited (Silver), and Irra Jane Lopez of GKAKEA-Bacolod (Bronze). Boys 14 Years Old Below: Edgardo Doctora of NUFAA (Gold), Allan Pacheco of KAA (Silver), Kimbert Parpa of GKAKEA-Sagay (Bronze). Girls 12 Years Old Below: Claire Locsin of KAA (Gold). Seniors Lightweight: John Bagatela of NUFAA (Bronze). Seniors Bantamweight: Yvonne de la Cruz of NUFAA (Bronze).

Other Negros medallists of the Labanan Men's Division: Glenn Cometa of GKAKEA-Sagay (Silver), Kevin Villaluz of GKAKEA (Silver), Carlo Barzo of GKAKEA-Bacolod (Bronze), and King Joseph Cabiles and Van Joseph Segovia of Tribu Hangaway (Bronze). Women's Division: Hailene Joy Sucgang of GKAKEA-Sagay (Gold), Mary Rose Lamoreno of GKAKEA-Bacolod (Silver).

Anyo Boys 14 Years Old below: Allan Pacheco of KAA (Bronze). Girls 17 Years Old Below Below: Claire Locsin of KAA (Gold).

Other Negros medallists of the Anyo Men's Division: Christian Villaluz of GKAKEA (Gold). Women's Division: Mary Rose Lamoreno of GKAKEA-Bacolod (Gold), Hailene Joy Sucgang of GKAKEA-Sagay (Bronze).

GKAKEA and KAA are member organizations of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) of Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D.; NUFAA, of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) of Master Elmer V. Montoyo; and TH, of both NOBF and IFFMAS.

Winners qualify to compete in Boracay this July 20-25, 2008. (Acknowledgements goes to GMs Ibarra Lopez, Jose Mancesa, and Danilo Cardinal and Master Roy R. Flores Sr. for providing the info for this news item.)

Monday, June 2, 2008

BRAWL 5 @ THE CASINO By: James U. Sy Jr.

The Bacolod Raw Amateur Warriors’ League (B.R.A.W.L.) 5 “Only the Strong Survive” was successfully held by the Fight Club Combat and Streetfighting Center of Founder/Chief Instructor Edwin J. Tusil last April 26, 2008 at the Casino Filipino Hotel, Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Brgy. Singcang, Bacolod City .

Overall Champion: Fight Club Combat and Streetfighting Center of Founder/Chief Instructor Edwin J. Tusil (4-3). 2nd Place: Punch Out Boxing Gym of Migue Estrella with grappling coaching from Milo Abelido and Chester Laquian of Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team (perfect score of 2-0). 3rd Place : Victorias City under Nilrax de Cafe and Tumbatsu Submissions and Strikes International ( Iloilo City ) of Gilton Solis (1-1 each). 4th Place : Bertar Karate Kan of Founder/Chief Instructor Edilberto “Bert” A. Arcositas (1-0). 5th Place : Murcia Martial Arts Center of Masters Luciano “Nick” and Jonathan Montoya (0-3). 6th Place : Lazy Boy Dojo (0-1).

Results: Richard “Negro” Calaveras of Victorias City over Joner “Cort” Cortez of Murcia Martial Arts Center via TKO at 3:41 of the 1st round. John Silayro of Fight Club over Paul Lester Saul of Tumbatsu-Iloilo via RSC at 3:41 of the 1st round. Mario Gilera of FC over Nilrax de Cape of Victorias City via tap out by guillotine choke at 4:14 of the 1st round.

3 times BRAWL champion Victor Torre of FC over Alonso Articulo of MMAC via TKO at 1:13 of the 1st round. Rocky Batulbatol of Punch Out over Jessie Fuentes of FC via KO at 4:17 of the 1st round. Rolando Jabano of Tumbatsu over BRAWL 2 champion Elijah Sian of FC via tapout by side choke at 2:26 of the 1st round.

2 times BRAWL champion and URCC Cebu II winner Jet Lumawag of FC over Erwin Panuela of MMAC via RSC at 0.14 of the 1st round, the shortest fight of the night. BRAWL IV champion Ace Tupas of Bertar Karate Kan/FC over Filam Richard “Richie Rich” Villaruel of Lazy Boy Dojo ( Miami , Florida , USA ) via tapout by guillotine choke at 3:27 of the 1st round. Glen Ventura of Punch Out over 4 times BRAWL champion Eugene Yunque of FC via RSC at 1:44 of the 1st round.

Officials were Leandro “Lean” V. Torre, Vic Tan, and Stephen Sancho (Promoters),
B.R.A.W.L. and T.R.I.B.E. W.A.R. champion Mohammad El Helo of Tribu Hangaway and Budy Cruz (Referees), Cargeoren T. Lusabia (Timer), Founder/Chief Instructor Maxwell “Big Max” J. Maun of Bacolod Aikido Enthusiasts and Henried Jose Lamayo of Atleta Judo Club (Crisis Management Officers), Isagani Bringuela, Aljandro Lacaron, Mark T. Lusabia, Erilu Pasco, Richard Torre, and Ronnie of FC (Ringside Crew), Amity Staff (Medics), Dr. Nilo del Carmen of Musubi Dojo and dra. Ava Joy L. Infante of FC (Event Physicians), and James Infante and Linus Ramos of FC and Punch Out Coaches (Instructors).

Sponsors were Casino Filipino Hotel and Tipsy Bar. B.R.A.W.L. 6 is being mulled for July 2008 at the same venue but the exact date has yet to be fixed. If things work out, a Super Fight will be fought between Grappling Sensation Rameses Aloro of Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team and Gilton Solis of Tumbatsu Submissions and Strikes International.