Arnis Seminar for St. Paul’s Hospital Med. Profs. Set by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Fundamentals of Conceptual Arnis Seminar will be presented by Professional Medical Representative Elaine Louise Edulag of Getz Pharma (Phils.), Inc. to at least 20 medical professionals of St. Paul’s Hospital at the request of Dra. Minda Marie S. Cabrera, Head of the Rehabilitation Department, on November 8-9, 2010, 5:30 PM, at the St. Clement’s Gymnasium, Lapaz, Iloilo City.

Edulag. Who represents Celcoxx 100, 200, and 400mg “The Fastest Strike,” had invited Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of the Bacolod-based Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. as the seminar’s Resource Instructor. Getz Pharma previously tapped Sy as the Primary Resource Instructor for its Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) in Action last July 31, 2010 at the Golden Salakot Hall, Hotel Del Rio, Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City which was held as part of the company’s Family Day for 45 doctors and their families. Sy was also a member of the team who taught the FMA ICOX Seminar for Bacolod last September 2010 at the Palmas del Mar Conference Resort Hotel, 37 JR Torres, Bacolod City.

Participants will be composed of interns, nurses, and other medical professionals. The seminar will cover Arnis courtesy, preliminary lecture, warm up and cool down, body facing, fighting stance and body fencing, paniil (footwork), the universal slashing and thrusting patterns, practical application of techniques with and without weapons, and open forum.

The purpose of the seminar is to introduce medical professionals to the cultural legacy of our forefathers and instill in them an appreciation of the effectivity of the indigenous Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) of Arnis as a means of protecting oneself and one’s loves ones. The seminar will focus on the martial and cultural aspects of Arnis.

The Celcoxx Team of getz Pharma are Product Manager Marie Yumul-Aranas, Regional Sales Manager Iris Gesta, District Sales Manager J. Angelo H. Lee, and PMR Elaine Louise Edulag.

Hon. Mayor Ramon Torres Arnis Expo This Cinco de Nov. by: James U. Sy Jr.

Hon. Bago City Mayor Ramon D. Torres, one of the few chief executives in the Province of Negros Occidental to generously support the propagation and promotion of the indigenous Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), will present another milestone in the province’s history of Arnis with the 1st Hon. Ramon D. Torres Arnis Expo which will be held this coming November 5, 2010, 2:00 PM, at the Bantayan, Bago City (at the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines Gym if it rains) as part of the city’s Cinco de Novembre celebration.

The event is being organized by the Guarra Style Modern Arnis (GSMA) of P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra and Arjuka-Malingin of Founder/Grandmaster Isaac “Saac T. Guarra with the support of the Bago City Government under Hon. Mayor Ramon D. Torres and the Bago City Sports Office of Mr. Ignacio Denila in cooperation with the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo “Pope” C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado.

The event was conceptualized by the organizers after the successful presentation of the 1st GSMASDA-Arjuka-CMAS Arnis Expo by GSMA, Arjuka-Malingin, and CMAS last August 1, 2010 at the Gaisano Bacolod Supermall, Bacolod City.

The event is a competition using the demonstration format. Each participating group will give a presentation of their particular system of Arnis within 3-5 minutes. Contestants will be scored based on execution (30%), stage presence (30%), substance (30%), and uniform (10%). There will be a Grandmasters, Masters & Instructors, and Students categories.

The demonstration format was chosen to showcase the combative and cultural aspects of the native Negrense systems of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), which are not often highlighted in regular labanan (sparring) competitions of sportive Arnis.

16 different Arnis organizations from Bago, Bacolod, Cauayan, and Talisay are expected to grace the event. Invitations had been sent to Iloilo but the invited group may not make it.

Invited groups include Arjuka-Malingin of Founder/Grandmaster Isaac “Saac T. Guarra, Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), Inc. of P/CInsp. (Ret.) Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez, Guarra Style Modern Arnis (GSMA) of P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, Herada Pigada Arnis of Master Maxwell “Max” J. Maun, KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal and Master Guilberto C. Dajao, Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo “Pope” C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., Oido de Caburata Arnis Group (ODCA) of Grandmaster Abraham T. Gubaton and Chief Instructor/Grandmaster Sabas T. Gubaton, Oido Fencing of Grandmaster Sotero Tario and Pastor Romeo N. Gumban, Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc. of 1st Generation Inheritor/Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” Mamar Lobrido, Oro Arnis Club (Cauayan) of Grandmaster Romeo Oro, Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association of Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, Tanique Arnis and Combat Club of Grandmaster Arman Tanique, Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) of Founder/Chief Instructor Abraham “Abe” Ganzon Jr., and Yasay Sable of 3rd generation Headmaster and 4th Generation Chief Instructor/Master Ferdinand Emmanuel “Bobot” Y. Gayoles.

The 1st Hon. Ramon D. Torres Arnis Expo is open for the public for free.

Velasquez Dethrones Lesnar as UFC Heavyweight Champion

Cain Ramirez Velasquez (above) and Brock Lesnar

Undefeated Mexican-American Cain Ramirez Velasquez (B: 1982) of the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) defeated reigning heavyweight champion and former World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) superstar Brock Lesnar via TKO at 4:01 of round 1 with punches during the main event of the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) 121 last October 23, 2010 at the Honda Center in Anaheim , California, USA.

Velasquez earned the distinction as the first MMA fighter of Mexican ethnicity to be crowned as the UFRC heavyweight champion.

Lesnar started the fight aggresively and successfully took down Velasquez twice in the first two minutes but the challenger immediately sprang back up. A two-punch combination from Velasquez sent Lesnar tumbling across the octagon, attempting to regain hisfooting along the way. Velasquez chased him up to the fence, where he rained down blows on Lesnar.

Herb Dean stopped the fight at 4.01 as Lesnar was no longer intelligentlydefending himself.

Velasquez rose to 7-0 (UFC record) while Lesnar fell to 5-2. Velasquez entered the octogaon with a record of outlanding his last five opponents by a tally of 481 to 63. He currently holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu under Dave Camarillo.

Velasquez was a 2 time All-American collegiate wrestler from Arizona State, a Junior College National Champ at Iowa Central Community College, and a 2 time 5A state champion in Arizona, Compiling a record of 110-10 for Kofa High School (Yuma, Arizona).

Velasquez made his MMA debut at Strikeforce: Tank vs. Buentello on October 7, 2006 were he TKOed Jesse Fujarczyk in the first round. He made his octagon debut in UFC 83 where he defeated Brad Morris in the first round with strikes.

His other victories in the UFC were against Jake O'Brien (UFC Fight Night 14, 1st round TKO), Denis Stojnić (UFC Fight Night 17, 2nd round TKO), Cheick Kongo (UFC 99, unanimous decision), Ben Rothwell (UFC 104, 2nd round TKO), and former Pride heavyweight champion and former UFC interim heavyweight champion Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira (UFC 110, 1st round KO).

Rosario Sala-Sy (1923-2010) Passes Away by: James U. Sy Jr.

Businesswoman Rosario Sala-Sy passed away last October 8, 2010 due to a long standing illness which included Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia among others. She was 87.

Rosario Sala-Sy was born as the third of five children of Vicente Tampos and Ramona Sala on August 20, 1923 in Bogo, Cebu.

Rosario Sala-Sy had six children, namely Emma Sala-Chua, Carmencita Sy-Taocta, Anecita Sy-Yu, James Sy, Georgette Sala-Trecho, and Alexander Sala.

In 1990, 9 years after her husband passed away, Rosario Sala-Sy was petitioned by her daughter Anecita Yu to the US, where she was to spend her retirement years. She went back to Bacolod once, in 1998.

Rosario Sala is survived by her children and her grandchildren. Her remains will be at the Rolling Hills Memorial (new building) starting on October 22, 2010, 4:00 P.M.. The internment mass will be on October 24, 2010, 1:30 P.M., at the Queen of Peace Parish (Hua Ming) and burial will follow at Greenhills Chinese Cemetery.

Happy 18th Birthday Kimberly Ann Trecho!

Debutant Kimberly Ann Trecho, daughter of Lemuel and Georgette Trecho, pose beside her cake during her Masskara-themed 18th birthday celebration last October 18, 2010 at L'Fisher Hotel, Lacson St., Bacolod City.

Boxing, Kickbox Tilts in San Carlos Slated by James U. Sy Jr.

The Local Government Unit of San Carlos City through its Sports Office under City Sports Officer Francisco “Bobot” Vendiola will be presenting the Invitational Amateur Boxing Tournament this coming October 27, 2010, 1:00 P.M., at the San Carlos City Auditorium as part of the city’s annual fiesta celebration scheduled for November 3-5, 2010.

15 amateur Boxing bouts are scheduled to be fought.

To be inserted within the tournament is the 1st San Carlos City Ringtop Full Contact Kickboxing Showdown, to be presented by the San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Deomedes N. Mamugay, 3rd Degree Black Belt. The three Kickboxing bouts will be inserted after every 5 bouts of the amateur Boxing event.

The Kickboxing bouts will pit San Carlos City fighters represented by Mamumgay’s SACA JUFIMAC against kickboxers of the Red Dragon Martial Arts Club (RDMAC) under Assigned trainor Dominador Tingson III.

Navales Masskara Arnis Held by James U. Sy Jr.

Capt. Teodorico “Teddy” P. Delicana, Grandmaster Hortencio M. Navales, Grandmaster John M. Necesito, P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of Guarra Style Modern Arnis, and Mario Guardiano during the start of the Bacolod Negros Arnis Federation International (BNAFI), Inc. Arnis Competition last October 16, 2010 at the Bacolod Arts, Youth, and Sports (BAYS) Center, San Juan St., Bacolod City as part of the 31st Masskara Festival celebration of the City of Smiles.

The Bacolod Negros Arnis Federation International (BNAFI), Inc. of Grandmaster Hortencio M. Navales with the support of the Bacolod City Government under Hon. Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia held an Arnis Competition last October 16, 2010 at the Bacolod Arts, Youth, and Sports (BAYS) Center, San Juan St., Bacolod City as part of the 31st Masskara Festival celebration of the City of Smiles.

Guests present were Judge Grandmaster Demosthenes L. Magallanes, Grandmaster John M. Necesito, P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of Guarra Style Modern Arnis, Capt. Teodorico “Teddy” P. Delicana, former national Kickboxing champion Grandmaster Hernani “Django” Rodrigazo, Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., and Atty. Roland Zamora. Each of the guests gave a message to the participants.

The event started off with demonstrations for students, Masters, and grandmasters and progressed into WEKAF style sparring competition, which the Navales group had adopted for the last 3 decades.

The Domingo Lacson National High School and Bacolod City National High School Arnis teams under Master Renier Decripito and Master Julius Acot composed the majority of the participants. The groups’ performances include several solo forms, two-man paired forms, synchronized forms, and self defense techniques. A number of the performers did jumps and acrobatics in their forms.

Masters Kane and Prince Navales, sons of GM Navales, demonstrated solo baston, doble baston, and disarming using espada y daga-derived methods.

Using a bahi yaming, Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. performed la cadena or the chaining combination of the different slashes and thrusts he had learned from his Arnis teachers. He also did a solo form of the Original Filipino Tapado long stick and the nunchaku.

Siblings Clyde and Windy Lou G. Poral of Brgy. Lag-asan, Bago City represented their grandfather’s Guarra Style Modern Arnis with a solo baston vs doble baston routine. Windy also performed modernist disarms with P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra feeding the strikes and doble baston vs tuwang-tuwang with Master Sy. GM Guarra was the only grandmaster who performed a demo in the event.

Senior Instructor Joselito Guzon and Noel Emmanuel Arendon of Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) represented their teacher Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, performing the signature moves of the Trese Grabes Piga-Piga System in the demo and later competing in the sparring division.

Tribe W.A.R. VII Grappling @ Gaisano Huge Success by James U. Sy Jr.

Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas, 6th Degree Black Belt, leads Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Foot Fighting (SKAFF) members Elias Tejares, 2nd Degree Black Belt, and Mike Tambasen, Black Belt, in performing their Karate forms during the Tribe W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) VII last October 14, 2010 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City as part of the 31st Masskara Festival celebration.


Host Tribu Hangaway Philippines was overall champion of the Tribe W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) VII eld last October 14, 2010 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City as part of the 31st Masskara Festival celebration.



In their latest tandem, Tribu Hangaway Philippines of Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr., Aksyon Radio 684 Khz under Station Manager JJ Deocampo, and Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall represented by Advertising Officer Nomer Q. Lobaton successfully held the Tribe W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) VII last October 14, 2010, 3:00-5:30 PM, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City as part of the 31st Masskara Festival celebration. The crowd was estimated at not less than 300.

13 martial arts organizations from Bacolod and Bago Cities gave demonstrations and competed in the longest running Submission Grappling tournament in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.

DEMONSTRATIONS. The demonstration by the Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Foot Fighting (SKAFF) started off with Karate kata (forms) performances by Lance Yuseros and Junica Kate C. Desamporado, 5 and 9 year old respectively, both white belt. Some more forms as well as street defense applications were performed by Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas, 6th Degree Black Belt, with Elias Tejares, 2nd Degree Black Belt, and Mike Tambasen, Black Belt. Master Filipinas also demonstrated how to break wood in his unprotected shin.

The KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal showed different likha anyo (creative forms) with ethnic music that the group has been performing at Arnis Philippines-sanctioned tournaments.

Founder/Chief Instructor Maxwell “Max” J. Maun of the Bacolod Aikido Enthusiasts (BAE) was assisted by Chester F. Esmalla of Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc./Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. in demonstrating the basic kansetsu (locking) and nage waza (throwing techniques) of Japanese Aikido.

Founder/Chief Instructor Abraham “Abe” Ganzon Jr. of the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA), with the help of two assistants, performed a few of the Arnis methodos taught by Grandmaster Jose Mancesa of the Negros United Fighting arts Academy (NUFAA), who was present during the pexhibition.

Filton O. Bernadas, John Rey C. Montes, and Ceasar Ian G. Poral, all grandchildren of P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, demonstrated Guarra Style Modern Arnis and Arjuka doble baston vs doble baston, solo baston vs doble baston, pangamot vs solo baston, and pangamot vs pangamot. Windy Lou G. Poral performed doble baston vs tuwang-tuwang and knife disarming with Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc.

The Musubi Dojo of Founder Dr. Nilo del Carmen Sensei was represented by Chief Instructor Rosyl Mohametano Sensei and three students. The group demonstrated the Aikido defenses against striking and grabbing attacks with the use of immobilization and projection techniques.

Master James U. Sy Jr. of CMAS and Chester F. Esmalla of PIMAA-FTSDA performed two techniques each for Grandmaster Elmer Montoyo’s empty handed Filipino Tang Soo Do and the staff techniques of Nishio, Shoji Shihan’s Aiki jo, Negros Style Binugsay, and Grandmaster Honorio Togle’s Madras. It was the first ever public demonstration of the last two arts in Bacolod and Negros Occidental. Sy also did a live-blade la cadena or the chaining combination of the different slashes and thrusts he had learned from at least 10 of his Arnis teachers.

Representing 1st Generation Inheritor/Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” Mamar Lobrido of Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc., Lorema “Bing” H. Tacsagon, with Master Joeffrey S. Deriada as attacker, demonstrated the basic Original Filipino Tapado long stick strikes against short stick attacks. Tacsagon is the first female certified Instructor of Original Filipino Tapado in the world.

Members of the Tribu Hangaway Philippines started their demonstration with a Combat Aikido children’s application against two attackers. Then Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. and Combat Aikido Black Belt/MMA fighter Alan Mario Facturan performed knife vs knife using the circular movements and footwork of Aikido.

A total of 9 Submission Grappling bouts were fought. Overall champion was host Tribu Hangaway Philippines of Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. with a 4-4 win-loss streak. 2nd to 4th Places are Affinity Bacolod of Chester Laquian (2-1), Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team of Jek-Jek Ferrer and Adrian Gillana (1-1), and Team Fusion of (TF) of Mohamad El Helou (1-2).

RESULTS. Jason Jocson of THP over Gerald Gonzales of THP. Herbet Jocson of THP over Carl Ravina of TF. Elmer Tortogo of THP over Daryl Garcia of SSP-BT. Patrick Escobar of Affinity over Jerry de la Cruz of THP. Dennis Alunan of SSP-BT forced a tapout from Franklin Olimpus of THP at 4.23 with an armbar, one of only two submissions in the event

Ariel Guanzon of THP over Karl Barrero of Affinity. Ming Guergen of Affinity was decalred winner by default against Reymond Besa of TF. The bout between Alan Mario Facturan of THP and Mark Peronce of SSP-BT was cancelled. Jimmy Soquiña of THP and Jay-R Perez of SSP-BT fought the most exciting and most applauded bout with the fight finally ruled a draw even after an extension time for sudden death. Mohamad El Helou of TF forced a tapout from Joval Medina of THP at 4.06 with an armbar.

Officials were Founder/Chief Instructor Maxwell “Max” J. Maun of the Bacolod Aikido Enthusiasts (Referee), Master Elmer “Don-Don” P. Montoyo and Chester F. Esmalla of Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (Judges), Jackie Honor and Jacky Lapag (Timer and Recorder), Jun Alojado Capulot of Aksyon Radio (Emcee), Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (Emcee/Special Message), and Peter Yap Sifu, Guillermo “Bill” Gomez, and “Boy” Gargalicano (Guests).

Sponsors were DYEZ Aksyon Radio Bacolod, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall, San Miguel Beer, Kopiko Brown Coffee, Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB), KOI Herbal Capsule & Liniment Oil, Color Ads, Coca Cola, MF Computer Solutions, Sr. Supt. Celestino Guara, Kagawad Noel Libo-on of brgy. Pahanocoy, Celcor Builders & Equipments, Inc., CHY Ventures, TMG Hollow Blocks, and Mr. & mrs. Stephen and Family.

Conceptual Arnis Seminar Held for Bayawan Eskrimadors by James U. Sy Jr.

5 Magtutudlo (Instructors) and 13 players of the Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) attended the “Fundamental Concepts of Combative Arnis/Eskrima Seminar” last October 3, 2010 at the Universal Care Center of Excellence, Locsin St., Bacolod City.

Resource Instructor was Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc.

The Hon. Mayor Atty. Rene G. Gaudiel and Hon. Vice Mayor Esmael Pimpo Martinez-sponsored Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) represented Oriental Negros during the 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010 last October 2, 2010 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod, Araneta St., Bacolod City. The Bayawan Arnis Team won 2 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze medals.

Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) was hosted and accommodated by tournament promoter T/Sgt. Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Founder/Chief Instructor of Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) and Chairman of Universal Care Center of Excellence.

It was during the tournament when the Magtutudlo of the Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) met Sy. The succeeding exchange of ideas led to BMAC Founder/Chief Adviser Edilberto “Jun” B. Euraoba inviting Sy to share his concepts to the group. In the spirit of brotherhood among eskrimadors, the seminar was set a day after the tournament, for a 2-hour slot.

Sy started off with a short backgrounder on how the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) is actually an amalgation of the various cultures that traded with and invaded the Philippines from pre-Hispanic times to the 20th Century.

The seminar proper began with Sy giving an analysis of the stance and the base of support, optimum reach and minimal distancing as they relate to the fighting stance, using the tip of the weapon as a pointer, and the difference between the blade and the stick body mechanics. From the on guard position, he taught 14 applications of the center thrust covering solo baston contra solo baston, pangamot contra solo baston, and pangamot contra pangamot. Sy also taught the use of the banda banda as a defense and counter offense to any kind of slashing and thrusting attack.

In the later part of the seminar, Sy taught two Dumog counters to a Judo throw and gave two Brazilian Jiu-jitsu ground techniques. As a whole, he showed the participants the relationship of the blade to the stick, weapons to empty hands, striking to grappling. He ended the seminar by encouraging the students to be proud of our own indigenous martial art, to continue their studies of Eskrima to keep alive the martial culture and legacy of our forefathers, and to always respect and honor one’s teacher(s) no matter how good one becomes in Eskrima.

The Instructors of the Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) helped out in demonstrating the techniques. BMAC officials present were Founder/Chief Adviser Edilberto B. Euraoba, Chief Instructor Arwin W. Aban, Magtutudlo Arnulfo N. Lape, Magtutudlo Arthur G. Lomoljo Jr., and Magtutudlo Jonathan P. Tumlad.

Arnis Phils.-BaNeg Officers Inducted by James U. Sy Jr.

Arnis Philippines Capiz Commissioner Grandmaster Carlito Ondillo, 10th Degree LSAI, of Roxas City (left most) inducting Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter officers, namely BaNeg Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo L. Cardinal (President), Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa (Vice President), Master Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. (Secretary), and Master James U. Sy Jr. (PIO) (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

The new set of officers of Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter for the year 2010 was inducted during the 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010 last October 2, 2010, Saturday, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod, Araneta St., Bacolod City.

Inducting Officer was Grandmaster Carlito Ondillo of Roxas City, 10th Degree LSAI, Arnis Philippines Capiz Commissioner and Lightning Scientific Arnis International (LSAI)-Capiz Chapter Head.

Inducted to office were Arnis Philippines Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal of the KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA)-Bacolod (President), Grandmaster Jose "Joe" B. Mancesa of the Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (Vice President), Founder/Chief Instructor Abraham "Abe" G. Ganzon Jr., MBA, of Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (Secretary), and Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (PIO).

Officers not present during the induction were Voltaire Daypal of UDTA (Treasurer) and Master Sheila M. Duran of Golden Kamagong (Auditor).

Ma-ao Oido Arnis Players Shine in Bago Div. Meet by James U. Sy Jr.

Three Arnis players of the District IV Arnis Team used Oido de Caburata techniques to win and be declared champions in their respective categories during the Bago City Division Athletic Meet, Elementary Level last September 30, 2010 in Bago City, Negros Occidental.

The gold medalists were Juan Miguel Alisaje, Christile Joy Landero, and Vanessa Torrecarrion. Others who fought for the team were Carlos Miguel Alisaje, Kim Angela Calpa, Karlos Enrique Duyo, Daphy Andrea Escara, Arvin Josh Gonzaga, Raymark Magallon, Kaye Grace Sanchez, and Christian Angelo Saquian.

All the players of the District IV Arnis Team under the leadership of District IV Supervisor Rutchillo Ducay were sourced from the Ma-ao Elementary School Arnis Team under Principal Meriam C. Banas and Sports Coordinator Janet Gubaton, after they were declared winner at the District Meet when no other teams fielded entries.

Trainors for the players were Grandmasters Abraham and Sabas T. Gubaton of the Ma-ao based Oido de Caburata Arnis Group (ODCA). The children’s intensive training lasted for about a month, starting in August 2010.

The Ma-ao medalists will join the winners from Bago to represent the city in the upcoming Area Meet. But meanwhile, the kids will continue their training in Oido de Caburata Arnis, a system of Arnis which traces its roots to the late Founder/Grandmaster Antonio “Toñing” Tolosa. GM Gubaton’s Oido was polished by his uncle, GM Tolosa.

Neg. Occ. Baston Fed. SEC Reg. to be Renewed by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) registration of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) will be renewed by its current set of officers.

The move has been spearheaded by its Founder Col. Atty. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., after the very successful staging of the 1st GSMASDA-Arjuka-CMAS Arnis Expo held recently as the inaugural event of the federation under the presidency of P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of Bago City.

Officials to be included in the renewal are P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of Guarra Style Modern Arnis (President), P/Insp. Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez of Golden Kamagong (Vice President), Founder/Chief Instructor Abraham "Abe" G. Ganzon Jr. of Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (Secretary), Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal of the KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA)-Bacolod (Treasurer), Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (PIO),
Master Roy R. Flores Sr. of Tribu Hangaway Philippines (Auditor),
Grandmaster Isaac “Saac” T. Guarra of Arjuka-Malingin, Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo of Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS), Grandmaster Alejandro “Alex” Doza of Golden Kamagong, Master Joeffrey S. Deriada of Conceptual Martial Arts Society, and Master Guilberto Dajao of KaliSilat Arnis Association (Board of Directors.

The federation is currently sourcing funds for the renewal.

Bassdumas Promotions Held by James U. Sy Jr.

Students, Instructors, Officals,nd Guests during the latest Bassdumas Belting Promotion at Canetown Subd., Victorias City (ames U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo).

Ian B. Negrido, 5th Degree Black Belt, Founder/Chief Instructor of Bassdumas (Baston Sipa Sumbag Dumog Martial Arts Society) with the support of Master Romeo G. Banas, 7th Degree Red Belt, Founder of Red Musang Self Defense Combat Sports, Knights of Columbus Council No. 12363 under Grand Knight Nicolas D. Asparen and Deputy Grand Knight Florante H. Magoliño, and Canetwon Barangay Officials successfully held an exposition and belting promotion for 16 students of Bassdumas recently at Canetown Subd., Victorias City.

The demonstrations included forms, sparring, and self defense techniques.

Promoted were Rolin Castillano, Melecio Manuel D. Mentor, Jonie Ramos, and Maribeth Solatario (Black Belt), Christian B. Negrido (Brown Belt), and Herbert Anciano, Noke Anciano, Josemaria O. Belandres, Shuji Mar Nil Caesar R. Cagadas, Danilo Delosantor Jr., Johnmark Gido, Mario Gido Jr., Abigail B. Negrido, Dave Chester Negrido, Rayboy Peloquero, and Christian Sabran (Yellow Belt).

Receiving special awards were Melecio Manuel D. Mentor (Best Fighter and Best in Bladed Weapon Disarming), Maribeth Solatario (Female Best Fighter), and Josemaria O. Belandres, Shuji Mar Nil Caesar R. Cagadas, and Rayboy Peloquero (Little Best Fighters).

Guests were Master Melchor Garcia of Rainbow Martial Arts, Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., Brgy. Kagawad Henry Laguna, Day Care Teacher Rose Cagadas, and Mrs. Mentor.

Iloilo and Capiz Shine in 2nd UDTA-Mayor Bing Arnis Cup by: James U. Sy Jr.

Master Bonnie Celendro (seated) and the Iloilo City Arnis Team (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Grandmaster Carlito Ondillo, 10th Degree LSAI, (seated) and members of the Arnis Philippines-Capiz Chapter, Capiz Arnis Federation, and Lightning Scientific Arnis International-Dumarao Chapter (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Grandmaster Romeo Oro Jr. (seated) and the Cauayan Arnis Team (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

The Iloilo Arnis Team under Arnis Philippines Commissioner Master Bonnie A. Celendro and the Capiz Arnis Team under Arnis Philippines Commissioner Grandmaster Carlito Ondillo, 10th Degree LSAI, were declared 1st and 2nd Runner Up respectively in the 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010 last October 2, 2010, Saturday, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod, Araneta St., Bacolod City.

The Iloilo Arnis Team, which was supported by Hon. Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and Hon. Vice Mayor Joe Espinosa III, tallied 3 gold and 2 bronze medals. Getting the gold for Iloilo City were Glory Joy Bartonico (56-61 Kg.), Iresh Crezel De Leon (44-48 Kg.), and Ferbie Ann Ramos (40-44 kgs Kg.). Meanwhile, Jessica Rbobles 48-52 Kg.) and Jesk Marie Caluste (37-40 Kg.) took the bronze.

The Capiz Arnis Team, which was supported by Hon. Gov. Victor E. Tanco, took home a 2 gold, 2 silver, and 1 bronze medal haul. The Capiz Arnis Team was composed of the Arnis Philippines-Capiz Chapter, Capiz Arnis Federation, and Lightning Scientific Anis International-Dumarao Chapter, all under the technical guidance of GM Ondillo.

Noel Hapdos and Rolando Boral were crowned champions in the extra lightweight and half middleweight categories respectively. Joemarie Alegre and Johnmar Baldisino took the silver in the extra lightweight and bantamweight categories respectively. Jepone Mahinay snatched the group’s lone bronze, in the lightweight category.

Meanwhile, lightweight John Mark Maquiling gave Cauayan its lone medal, a silver, in the event. Cauayan was represented by the self-supporting Oro Arnis Club Cauayan of Grandmaster Romeo Oro Jr. Other Cauayan arnisadors who saw action in the tournament were Davey Gabatino (half middleweight), Jazfher Lipo-on (half lightweight), Junsel Marande (featherweight), Dimetrio Obado (extra lightweight), and Ray Ian Rivera (bantamweight).

Jason Jocson (below 50 kg.) and Jussel Torres (70 kg.) snatched two bronze medals for the Bacolod-based Tribu Hangaway Philippines of Master Roy R. Flores.

The event was organized by the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) OF Founder/Chief Instructor Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. in cooperation with the Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter under Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal.

Alrehs Carrie “Uni” V. Ganzon, the promoter’s 6 year old daughter, gave a demonstration of the basic strikes and blocks of Arnis during the preliminary ceremonies.

Gracing the event were Janette Aristorenas and Jungie Fernandez, VP-Finance and VP-Marketing respectively of the Universal Care Center of Excellenece. Emcee was Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (Details provided by above mentioned teams).

Bayawan City Excels in Bacolod Arnis Tilt by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Bayawanihan Martial Arts represented Oriental Negros during the 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010 last October 2-3, 2010 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod, Araneta St., Bacolod City. Seated from left: Magtutudlo Arnulfo N. Lape, Chief Instructor Arwin W. Aban, Founder/Chief Adviser Edilberto B. Euraoba, Magtutudlo Jonathan P. Tumlad, and Magtutudlo Arthur G. Lomoljo Jr. (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

The 13-player, 5-coach Bayawan Arnis Team, under the generous support of city officials headed by Hon. Mayor Atty. Rene G. Gaudiel, represented Oriental Negros during the inter-regional 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” R. Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010 and showed great potential after they won 2 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze medals last October 2, 2010, Saturday, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano City Bacolod, Araneta St., Bacolod City.

Crowned champions in their categories were Allona Mae Maravillas (52-56 Kg.) and Jesmine Panaligan (48-52 Kg.). Snatching the silver were Arwin Aban (71-78 Kg.), Shiela Mendez (44-48 Kg.), Jannie Mae Milano (41 Kg. below), and Clara Olido (40-44 Kg.). Taking the bronze were Leah Acabo (56-61 Kg.), Edcel Baro (51-55 Kg.), Lito Tolentino (60-65 Kg.), and Jonathan P. Tumlad (60-71 Kg.).

The Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) was lead by their coaches Chief Instructor Arwin W. Aban, Founder/Chief Adviser Edilberto B. Euraoba II, Magtutudlo Arnulfo N. Lape, Magtutudlo Arthur G. Lomoljo Jr., and Magtutudlo Jonathan P. Tumlad. Club officials who wasn’t able to travel with the team Bacolod include Magtutudlo Dexter Dingcong, Magtutudlo Jiffrey Torrigue, and Consultant Insp. Bernardo C. Del Mar, BFP/EMT.

The campaign of the Bayawan Arnis Team in Bacolod was under the full support of city officials under the leadership of Hon. Mayor Atty. Rene G. Gaudiel and Hon. Vice Mayor Esmael Pimpo Martinez. Other officials who supported the team were the SB Members, City Admin Officer Atty. Rori James Lawrence Miraflor, Sport Coordinator Mc Arthur Douglas Tijing, Asst. Coordinator James Lunweg Egoncillo, and City Admin Clerk Jennifer Estandarte Tayco.

The Bayawanihan Martial Arts Club (BMAC) was founded about three years ago as a group where the youth of Bayawan City can go and learn confidence, discipline, and respect through the local martial art of Eskrima or Arnis.

Tribe W.A.R VII Reset to Oct. 14 by: James U. Sy Jr.

Tribe W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) VII has officially been rescheduled from October 15, 2010 to October 14, 2010, 2:00 PM, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City.

The Submission Grappling tournament is being organized by Tribu Hangaway Philippines (THP) of Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. in cooperation with Aksyon Radio under Station Manager JJ Deocampo.

A total of 9 bouts will be fought by grapplers from host Tribu Hangaway Philippines, Affinity of Chester Laquian, Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team (SSP-BT) of Adrian Ledesma, and Team Fusion (TF) of Mohammed El Hello.

Pairing is as follows: Gerald of TH vs Jason Jocson of TH (100 lbs.), Niko Jocson of TH vs Ravina Earl of TF (120 lbs.), Jerry de la Cruz of THvs Carl Erik Delgado of SSP-BT (190 lbs.), Jimmy Soquiño of TH vs Jay-R Perez of SSP-BT, Franklin of TH vs Dennis Alunan of SSP-BT 9110 lbs.), Ariel Guanzon of TH vs Patrick Escobar of Affinity (135 lbs.), Elmer Tatogo of TH vs Daryl Garcia of SSP-BT (135 lbs.), Raymund Besa of TF vs Ming Guirgen of Affinity (155 lbs.), and Joval of TH vs Mohamad El Helou of TF (190 lbs.)

Various martial arts demonstrations will also be given by ally organizations of the promoter.

The standard Tribe W.A.R. Submission Grappling rules will be used, which has also been used in the previous editions of the competition. Maun Sensei will be the Chief Referee. Tribe W.A.R. is the longest running Submission Grappling tournament in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental. Tribe W.A.R. VI was successfully held last April 24, 2010 at the Casino Filipino Amphitheater, Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Bacolod City.

Golden Kamagong Arnis Tilt mulled by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), Inc. headed by Founder/Chairman/Grandmaster P/Insp. (Ret.) Ibarra E. Lopez (3rd from left) will be hosting the Arnis Invitational Tournament and Festival this coming November 21, 2010, Sunday, at the New City Mall, Dela Rama Bldg., Luzuriaga St. Bacolod City (GKAKEA photo).

The Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), Inc. of Founder/Chairman/Grandmaster P/Insp. (Ret.) Ibarra E. Lopez in cooperation with the International Modern Arnis Federation Philippines (IMAFP), Inc.-Negros Occidental Chapter and the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) under its President P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra will be presenting the Arnis Invitational Tournament and Festival this coming November 21, 2010, Sunday, at the New City Mall, Dela Rama Bldg., Luzuriaga St. (in front of Gaisnao Bacolod-Main), Bacolod City.

The Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), Inc. was founded by GM Lopez in 1980. GM Lopez is currently the President of IMAFP-Negros Occidental Chapter and the Vice President of NOBF. He was the Chief Arnis Instructor of the Bacolod Police Station Training Academy (Bacolod City), Metro Police District Training Academy and Bacolod City Police Office Training Academy, Bacolod City Tanod Brigades, and Navales Arnis Club (NAC).

Invitations had already been distributed to the different Arnis associations and clubs in Bacolod City and nearby areas. Interested parties may contact GM Lopez at 0916-696-3374.

Arnisador Appointed PA H2H Combat Instructor by: James U. Sy Jr

Officials of the 605th, 6RCDG (6th Regional Community Defense Group), ARESCOM (Army Reserve Command) during the change of command program on September 28, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park Covered Court with BGen. Joel P. Ibanez as Guest of Honor (UDTA photo).


Technical Sgt. Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. demonstrating a hammerlock to members of the 605th, 6RCDG, ARESCOM Military Group during their initial Hand to Hand Combat/Arnis training last September 26, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City (UDTA photo).


Technical Sgt. Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. demonstrating a hammerlock to members of the 605th, 6RCDG, ARESCOM Military Group during their initial Hand to Hand Combat/Arnis training last September 26, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City (UDTA photo).


Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal teaching the basics of Arnis (UDTA photo).


Company Commander Capt. Hernan Maglupay of the 605th, 6RCDG, ARESCOM awarding a Certificate of Recognition to Technical Sgt. Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., for his services as the group’s Hand Combat/Arnis training, last September 28, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City (UDTA photo).


Company Commander Capt. Hernan Maglupay of the 605th, 6RCDG, ARESCOM awarding a Certificate of Recognition to Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal, who served as a Guest Instructor of the group’s Hand Combat/Arnis training, last September 28, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City (UDTA photo).


Company Commander Capt. Hernan Maglupay of the 605th, 6RCDG, ARESCOM awarding a Certificate of Recognition to Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) Assistant Instructor Julna D. Jabat, who served as a Guest Instructor of the group’s Hand Combat/Arnis training, last September 28, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City (UDTA photo).

Company Commander Capt. Hernan Maglupay and Lt. Antonio Sapala Jr. (Batalion S3) of the 605th, 6RCDG (6th Regional Community Defense Group), ARESCOM (Army Reserve Command) Military Group recently appointed Technical Sgt. Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Founder/Chairman of the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA), as their Hand to Hand Combat Instructor and Asst. Coach for Riffle and Pistol Competition.

The first H2H Combat and Arnis training session conducted by TSg Ganzon was last September 26, 2010 at the H605th (NOC), CDC, 6RCDG, ARESCOM Head Quarters, Pana-ad Park, Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

The initial training was in cooperation with Arnis Philippines (Arpi)-Bacolod/Negros Chapter.
Arpi Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal and UDTA Assistant Instructor Julna D. Jabat were Guest Instructors.

TSg Ganzon taught disarming and arresting techniques while GM cardinal taught the fundamentals of Arnis. The training will be ongoing and will be held every last Sunday of the month. TSg Ganzon plans to invite different Guest Arnis Instructors every time to give the group a background of the specialization of each guest.

TSg Ganzon, GM Cardinal, and AI Julna D. Jabat given certificates of appreciation by Company Commander Capt. Hernan Maglupay during the change of command program on September 28, 2010 at the Pana-ad Park Covered Court with BGen. Joel P. Ibanez as Guest of Honor.

Ganzon is enlisted in the reserve Force, Philippine army (PA) with Reserve Rank TSg (E6) and is assigned to 61st Infantry Division (SRES) PA. Ganzon studied shortly in Karate under Bong-Bong Acot Sensei, Kimdo under Founder/Chief Instructor Joy T. Divinagracia, and Aikido under Chief Instructor Rosyl “Russell” A. Mohametano and Founder Dr. Nilo del Carmen Sensei.

Ganzon later organized the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) and formally launched it in July 2008 during the 1st Negros Fighting Arts Exposition at Robinson’s Place Bacolod. He then studied under Grandmaster Hortencio M. Navales (Espada y Daga), Grandmaster Danilo L. Cardinal (KaliSilat Arnis), Master James U. Sy Jr. (Conceptual Martial arts), Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo (Chi Kung), and Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa (Mancesa Arnis). He was promoted to master by GM Navales and to Lakan Isa by GM Cardinal. Also in 2008, he traveled to Singapore to attend the Commando Krav Maga Instructors Course by Founder Moni Azhik and became the first Bacoleño to be certified as an Instructor (Levels 1 & 2) of the art.

IFFMAS Instructors to Run for Brgy. Office by: James U. Sy Jr.

At least three instructors who are members of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS), Inc. are running for Kagawad for the scheduled Barangay Elections this October 25, 2010.

Joery C. Amante, currently President of Prk. Bulak, is running for Kagawad in Brgy. Mandalagan. Amante’s semi-annual project Bulig sa Kubod (Assistance to the Needy) has benefited indigent residents of Prk. Bulak and nearby areas every school opening and Christmas in the last several years. Amante is the Chief Instructor of the Black Falcon Martial Arts Association (BFMAA)-Main.

Elmer V. Montoyo, who run in the last Barangay Elections, is running for Kagawad in Brgy.Mansilingan. Montoyo had undertaken several religious and sports programs for the youth in his capacity as a Christian preacher and as Board Director of the YMCA-Negros Occidental Chapter. Montoyo is the Founder/Grandmaster of the Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc.

Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, currently President of Prk. Langka, is running for Kagawad in Brgy. Taloc, Bago City. Lobrido had undertaken several sports and other programs for the youth of his area over the years, mostly in cooperation with his brother clodualdo “Budoy” Lobrido and their cousin Kagawad Romeo “Tokong” Mamar Jr. Lobrido is the 1st Generation Inheritor/Grandmaster of the Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc.

P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, who had previously served as Prk. President and kagawad, decided not to run for public office this elections. Guarra is the Founder/ Grandmaster of Guarra Style Modern Arnis.

The Best of Negros & Panay Rumble in the 2nd UDTA-Mayor Bing Arnis Cup by James U. Sy Jr.

Members of the KaliSilat Arnis Association of Grandmaster Danilo L. Cardinal (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Master Jay de Leon of California, USA (seated) with the La Carlota City Arnis Team (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa and Raffy Yanong (seated) with members of the Hon. Mayor Ramon D. Torres Arnis Team and Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Karen B. Libres (left) and Mhel Jhean G. Diosana of Bago City showing their Arnis skills (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Arnis Philippines Capiz Commissioner Grandmaster Carlito Ondillo, 10th Degree LSAI, of Roxas City (left most) inducting Arnis Philippines-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter officers, namely BaNeg Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo L. Cardinal (President), Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa (Vice President), Master Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. (Secretary), and Master James U. Sy Jr. (PIO) (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

Navales Arnis Tilt Set This Masskara by: James U. Sy Jr.

The Bacolod Negros Arnis Federation International, (BNAFI), Inc. of Grandmaster Hortencio “Horten” M. Navales will be presenting the Grandmasters Arnis Open Forms Competition this coming October 16, 2010 at the Bacolod Arts, Youth, and Sports (BAYS), Center, San Juan St., Bacolod City.

The tournament will have a Sparring Division and the Forms Division. According to GM Navales, grandmasters affiliated with his organization will see action in the open forms event.

P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Founder of Guarra Style Modern Arnis and President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), have expressed his support to the event of GM Navales.

GM Navales is the most prolific promoter of Arnis tournaments in Bacolod and Negros Occidental. He started organizing competitions since the early 1980s, producing at least two events in a year, namely the Arnis Day every March and his Masskara Arnis showdowns.

From its humble beginnings as the Navales Arnis Clinic, GM Navales’ group was known by various names at different times: Navales Arnis Club, Navales Arnis Kali Eskrima Group (NAKEG), and today, Bacolod Negros Arnis Federation International, (BNAFI), Inc.

Many arnisadors in Bacolod and Negros Occidental who had made names for themselves had been affiliated at one time or another with the master, to name a few: GM Frank Abalajon of Abalajon Classical Arnis, GM Felix A. Guinabo of Guinabo Arnis Combat Sports (GACS), GM Ibarra E. Lopez (Golden Kamagong), GM Romeo Oro of Oro Arnis Club (Cauayan), GM Romeo Postrano (Sikaran Garote Arnis Society (SGAS), the late GM Bernandino Tanique of Tanique Arnis and Combat Club (TACC), Master Dominador “Jun-Jun” L. Villaluna of Black Mamba Arnis, etc.

Tribe W.A.R VII Oct. 15 by: James U. Sy Jr.

Tribu Hangaway Philippines of Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. in cooperation with Aksyon Radio will be presenting Tribe W.A.R. (Warrior’s Art Rumble) VII this coming October 15, 2010, 1:00-6:00 PM, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano Bacolod Supermall, Araneta St., Bacolod City.

The number of bouts has yet to be confirmed as of press time but all of them will be in the Submission Grappling Division. Expected to field entries in the tournament are host Affinity of Chester Laquian, Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team of Adrian Ledesma, Team Fusion of Mohammed El Hello, and Tribu Hangaway Philippines.

Allied organizations expected to give demonstrations include Bacolod Aikido Enthusiasts of Founder/Chief Instructor Maxwell “Max” J. Maun, Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, Guarra Style Modern Arnis of P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA) of Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal, Oido de Caburata Arnis Group (ODCA)-Ma-ao Elementary School Chapter under the supervision of Sports Coordinator/Teacher II Janet Gubaton and Grandmasters Abraham and Sabas T. Gubaton, Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA0, Inc. of 1st Generation Inheritor/Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” Mamar Lobrido, Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. of Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Foot Fighting (SKAFF) of Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas, and Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) of Founder/Chairman Abraham “Abe” Ganzon Jr. Additional groups may confirm participation in the days leading to the competition.

The standard Tribe W.A.R. Submission Grappling rules will be used, which has also been used in the previous editions of the competition. Maun Sensei will be the Chief Referee.

Tribe W.A.R. is the longest running Submission Grappling tournament in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental. Tribe W.A.R. VI was successfully held last April 24, 2010 at the Casino Filipino Amphitheater, Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Bacolod City.

Getz Pharma Arnis Seminar in Bacolod

Getz Pharma ICOX Arnis in Action Sched For Bacolod by: James U. Sy Jr.

Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. explaining the finer points of an Arnis technique to a doctor during the ICOX FMA in Action at Hotel del Rio, Iloilo City recently (Getz Pharma photo).

Getz Pharma (Phils.), Inc. will hold the ICOX Filipino Martial Art (FMA) seminar in Action for Bacolod and Negros Occidental doctors and their families this coming September 5, 2010, 10:00 A.M., at the Palmas del Mar Conference Resort Hotel, 37 JR Torres, Bacolod City.

Hosts will be Professional Medical representatives Leizl Araneta-Abalo and Christine S. Pabalinas under the supervision of Regional Sales Manager Iris Gesta.

FMA in Action is a nationwide project of Getz Pharma (Phils.), Inc. where the history and fundamentals of the indigenous Filipino Martial Art (FMA) of Arnis/Eskrima are introduced to doctors by leading authorities of this art. Previously Getz Pharma (Phils.), Inc. had organized events for other sports and the ICOX Arnis seminar is a pioneering concept in the field.

Resource Instructors previously tapped for the workshop include University of the Philippines-Diliman anthropology Professor Master Felipe “Bot” P. Jocano Jr. of Lightning Scientific Arnis International (LSAI)-Sangkil Karasak (Manila), Doce Pares (Cebu), and Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., Master Joeffrey S. Deriada, and Senior Instructor Dr. Rey Mollenido of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. (Iloilo).

Resource Instructors for the Bacolod event will be Master Ferdinand Emmanuel Y. Gayoles of Yasay Sable and Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. Master Gayoles will be assisted by his daughter Irene Anne “Aya” Gayoles, RN, and University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R) Criminology students Aber Yamar M. Azuelo, Gerald June Daclan, and Carlos Trunio II.

The number of doctors to attend is still being confirmed as of press time but the Iloilo event had attracted not less than 45 doctors and members of their families.

The activity will be opened with a film showing about Getz Pharma (Phils.), Inc. and the concept behind the ICOX Arnis seminar and its role in propagating Filipino martial tradition and its benefits.

The seminar proper will be opened with a lecture on the historical and cultural foundation of the Filipino Martial Art (FMA) of Arnis/Eskrima followed by demonstrations of its various techniques and the hands on section where doctors will be taught a limited number of techniques which they can use right after the workshop.

The Resource Instructors are expected to showcase Oido de Caburata Aguilar Style, Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis, and Conceptual Arnis.

GM Leovigildo “Beldong” A. Torres: Old Timer Arnisador from Brgy. Ma-ao by: James U. Sy Jr.

Grandmaster Leovigildo “Beldong” A. Torres of Ma-ao strikes a classic Arnis pose (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

Negros is home to countless arnisadors, each one having their own colorful life and contribution to the development and evolution of the indigenous Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) of Arnis/Eskrima in the island. Many of them have passed on and their memories only live in the oral accounts that remain with us today. This article is a biographical piece on one of the few surviving old timers from an era when Arnis was “played” with no protective armor/gear.

was born to Jacinto Seredon Torres, a farmer, and Josefa Yulo Abuyen, a housewife, on July 26, 1926 in Bo. Ma-ao, Bago City, Negros Occidental as the seventh of ten siblings. His other siblings (in this order) werer MNariano, Rosario Torres-Ovario, Edmundo, Thelma Torres-Lo, Guillermo, Rebecca Torres-Alonsagay, Esther Torres-Cruz, Hernani, and Leda Sol.

“Beldong” started his studies of Arnis under Beging Barrera in 1939 when he was 13. His main purpose in studying was for personal protection. Barrera was teaching Arnis in Ma-ao so he stops by Torres’ place twice a week and teaches him too. Barrera taught Torres for free.

From Barrera, Torres learned Espada y Daga “Sword and Dagger,” which was composed of 12 strikes and 12 defenses. Torres also studied Filipino “Judo” or kinamot as a minor subject and supplement to his weapons repertoire. They used lanite sticks during training. His training lasted for a year.

Torres graduated from the Ma-ao Elementary school but was not able to go to high school because World War II erupted.

Just like other arnisadors, Torres went on to pit his skills with other eskrimadors, either in muestrations “demonstration exchanges” or hampang “plays,” to gain more experience. He had crossed sticks with the likes of Ader, Saber Grandmaster Maeng Alvarez, Junior Cañet, Guarra Style Modern Arnis Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Oido de Caburata Grandmaster Abraham T. Gubaton, Juan, Fencing Grandmaster Homero Sian, Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis Founder/Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Viñas, and other whom GM Torres could no longer remember.

The exchanges and plays between different arnisadors was an important ingredient in the development and evolution of the local Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) of Arnis/Eskrima as the effectivity of various methods are tested, new counters are developed, and cross pollination of techniques are imminent. Styles that were effective in one locality were constantly tested in other places that had their own prominent style(s).

Of the arnisadors he had crossed sticks with, GM Torres is most in awe with the speed and skill of GM Sian. According to him, GM Sian would gather different arnisadors from bago, Silay, and other places up north and spar with them.

GM Torres was employed as the in charge for the fire truck in the mercado since 1954 up to his retirement in 1985. It was in 1957 when he started teaching Arnis to a select few people, about 6 of them members of the fire team.

GM Torres married Quiteria Treoles Tuvilla (1936-1986) and had thirteen children with her, namely Angelita Torres-Gutierrez, Jocelyn Torres-Tindero, Guillermo, Nelsie Torres-Rodrigo, Leovigildo Jr., Rosemarie Torres-Lavarro, Armelito, Leo, Leonil, Jimmy, Lemuel, Leah Torres-Arsoa, and Leocildo.

Today at 84, GM Torres is battling cancer and is being cared for by his family.

“Universidad de San Agustin” of Dr. Funtecha Launched by: James U. Sy Jr.

“Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review” by her late husband Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D. (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha of Central Philippine University (CPU) holding the book “Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review,” the latest book by her late husband Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D., tobe publihed (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha of Central Philippine University (CPU) in her message during the book launching of “Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review” by her late husband Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D., last August 24, 2010 at the University of San Agustin (USA), Iloilo City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha accepting the symbolic first copy of the book “Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review” by her late husband Prof. Henry F. Funtecha during the book launching last August 24, 2010 at the University of San Agustin (USA) (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

The USA Coordinating Center for Research and Publications (UCRP) successfully held the book launching of “Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review” by the late Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D., last August 24, 2010 at the President’s Conference Room, Administration Bldg., University of San Agustin (USA), Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City.

The Funtecha family, represented by Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha of Central Philippine University (CPU), her sons Hennel Rhee S. Funtecha and Henry Agafel S. Funtecha, and Dr. Funtecha’s sister Aida Funtecha-Ampatin, graced the book launching.

Universidad de San Agustin is a work documenting the 100 years history of the educational institution starting when it was formally inaugurated on July 15, 1904 by the Augustinian Fathers. The Augustinians were the first Spanish missionaries in the Philippines and the first to establish missions as well as the first ones to initiate parochial schools. The book is significant because researches on educational institutions are rare and Dr. Funtecha’s work is among those few which are in existence.

“Universidad de San Agustin in 100 Years (1904-2004): A Historical Review” by the late Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D., was published by the University of San Agustin Publishing House in 2009 with Prof. Jigger S. Latoza of USA and Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha of CPU as Editorial Consultants and URCP Secretary Carmen G. Dureza as Editorial Assistant. The book, which is 192-pages thick, is composed of 6 chapters. It is the 33rd work to be published by the USA Coordinating Center for Research and Publications (UCRP) under the heading Libro Agustino.

The book launching was well attended by members of the academe. Giving the welcome remarks in behalf of USA President Rev. Fr. Raul M. Marchan, OSA, was former USA President Rev. Fr. Mamerto Alfeche, OSA. Present were URCP Director Prof. Jigger S. Latoza, USA Librarian Epifamia Paclibar, USA Deans Dr. Isidoro Cruz of the College of Arts & Sciences, Prof. Vicky Sustento of the College of Pharmacy & Medical Technology, Dr. Alex Pacinabao of the College of Education, Dr. Lucio Ercio of the College of Business Administration & Accountancy, and Engr. Reynaldo Asuncion of the College of Engineering & Architecture, USAA Alumni Association President Dr. Asunciuon Faro, Executive Assistant to the USA President Atty. Julius P. Eleas, USA Registrar Gemena Halili, Center for West Visayan Studies (CWVS), University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UP-V), Director Prof. Melanie Padilla, Central Philippine University (CPU) Librarian Prof. Vicky Dionio, Prof. Tita Torio of the Division of Social Sciences, UP-V Miag-ao, Iloilo, Prof. Corazon Nievales of the Department of Social Sciences, CPU, Chair Dr. Kristine Treñas and Eugene Jamerlan of the Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Conservation Council, Curator Mozart James Amsua of Museo Iloilo, and James U. Sy Jr. of Negros Daily Bulletin, Bacolod.

URCP Research and Advocacy Associate Mona V. Pico was the emcee.

A symbolic presentation of the first copy of the book was made by URCP Director Prof. Jigger S. Latoza to former USA President Rev. Fr. Mamerto Alfeche, OSA, in behalf of USA President Rev. Fr. Raul M. Marchan, OSA. Prof. Latoza and Fr. Alfeche then gave the symbolic first copy of the book to the late author’s wife, Prof. Nelly Sulay-Funtecha of CPU.

In the message given by Prof. Sulay-Funtecha, she remembers her beloved husband to be a prolific researcher and writer and someone who gave a high premium on academic pursuits, traits which attracted her to him. In between tears, she expressed her joy and thanks for another work of her late husband to be published and for all the accolades given to Dr. Funtecha by his peers in the academic field.

It has been revealed that the Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Conservation Council and Museo Iloilo will each be erecting a display section as a memorial and tribute to the late Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D.

Prof. Henry F. Funtecha, Ph.D. was a Professor 9 of History and Anthropology at the College of Arts and Sciences , University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UP-V), Miag-ao main campus, Iloilo. He has served as Director for the Center for West Visayan Studies (CWVS), Chairperson of the UPV Centennial Program that included the UP Cebu and Tacloban campuses, Coordinator of the College of Arts and Sciences Research & Extension Program, and Coordinator of the Visayan Studies Program. .

Dr. Funtecha was UPV’s Most Outstanding Faculty for the period 199-1996, a semi-finalist in Metro Bank’s foundation’s Search for the Ten Outstanding Teachers of the Philippines (1997), and one of the Most Outstanding alumni of the College of Arts and Sciences of Central Philippine University (CPU). He was an Asia Foundation Fellow for Local Historical Studies in the Philippines (1972) and a British Council Fellow in England, Scotland, and Wales for Cultural Studies (1988). He is the author of eleven books and the writer of not less than 364 articles. He was a columnist at The News Today, penning historical and cultural pieces in his column “Bridging the Gap.”

Donation Made to Asilo de Molo by: James U. Sy Jr.

Sr. Leticia Silmete, DC, sister in charge of Asilo de Molo, addressing the elderly residents before an afternoon snacks were served last August 16, 2010 (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).


One of the elderly residents of Asilo de Molo giving a song number for their visitors (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

60 elderly residents of Asilo de Molo in Iloilo City partook on an afternoon snacks, which included siopao and juice, given by 5 visitors last August 16, 2010.

Hosting the visitors was Sr. Leticia Silmete, DC, sister in charge of Asilo de Molo. Asilo de Molo was founded in 1912 as a home for orphans and the elderly but later it became apparent that there are other institutions that offer shelter to orphaned children but none for the elderly. Because of this, Asilo de Molo then became an exclusive sanctuary for the elderly, as of press time, the only one of its kind in Panay.

The visitors-donors were Cristita “Tata” P. Lim, Mary Salve L. Pe, Camille Manuel, Colleen Manuel, and James U. Sy Jr.

The elderly residents, most of them in a wheelchair, were represented by a few brave souls who gave song numbers. Of the 60 elderly residents, only five were males.

The visitors, on the other hand, conducted a few games where prizes were given to the lucky residents. Sy gave an Arnis demonstration for the residents.

BCCN, UNO-R, & NOHS Jins Bring Home Viz TKD Medals by: James U. Sy Jr.

Bacolod City jins from the Bacolod Christian College of Negros (BCCN), University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), and Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) led by Palarong Pambansa veteran Cherlyn Mondia of UNO-R took home a 5-2-4 medal haul during the recently concluded 2010 Visayas Inter-School Taekwondo Tournament at the Iloilo National High School Covered Gym, Iloilo City.

The tournament was organized by the Iloilo Taekwondo Association under the sanction of the Philippine Taekwondo Association (PTA). SEA games Taekwondo gold medalist and Milo model Japoy Lizardo was special guest of the competition.

The Bacolod gold medalists were Geovie Bedayos of BCCN (136-144 cm Kyorugi Advance), Cherlyn Mondia of UNO-R (Advance Girls Junior Flyweight), Bernadette Ramirez of NOHS, 12 (Junior girls advance Super Finweight), Roni Jean Raymundo of BCCN (Brown Belt Poomsae), and Rukmini Yanson of BCCN (Blue Belt Poomsae).

The silver medalists were Bernadette Ramirez of NOHS (13-Under 144-152 cm. Girls Advance) and Koki Sato of UNO-R (Junior Welterweight).

The bronze medalists were Geovie Bedayos of BCCN (Red Belt Poomsae), Charlene Gorriceta of UNO-R (128-136 cm. Girls Advance), Raphael Manoloto of UNO-R (Junior Lightweight), and Rukmini Yanson of BCCN (Junior Advance Flyweight).

Head Coach for the Bacolod jins was Joel Casiple, Founder of the Bacolod Consolidated Sports Management Association (BACSMA).

Prologo Sensei’s Birthday Celebrated by: James U. Sy Jr.

Members of the Shinsei Aikido Society (SAS) during the birthday celebration of the late Aikido teacher Patricio P. Prologo Sensei last August 15, 2010 at the Prologo Residence, Bangga Riles, Prk. Maanyag 2, Brgy. Alijis, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo).

The family of Engr. Patricio “Pat” Pan Prologo Sensei (1936-2010), led by his widow, Ma. Losie Hontiveros-Prologo, and their children Ma. Sophie Prologo, Patricio H. Prologo Jr., Gunji H. Prologo, Ma. Kristine Prologo, and Naomi Prologo-Braza, celebrated the birthday of the late Aikido teacher last August 15, 2010 at the Prologo Residence, Bangga Riles, Prk. Maanyag 2, Brgy. Alijis, Bacolod City.

The simple get together was held in memory of Prologo Sensei, who passed away peacefully in his sleep last July 2, 2010. His remains were laid to rest on July 14, 2010 at the Rolling Hills Memorial Park.

Prologo Sensei was a pioneer of Judo and Aikido in Bacolod City. He founded the Caltex (Bacolod) Judo Club in 1960, the same year he started training in Judo. He started teaching Judo the following year and in 1965, earned his Shodan “1st Dan Black Belt” from Japanese teachers Hiroshi and Ozawa at the University of San Carlos in Cebu City. Prologo Sensei’s group later evolved into the Shinsei Judo Club (SJC) and gave birth to the Shinsei Aikido Society (SAS) in 1995.

Prologo learned his Aikido from Crecinciano “Anong” Javellana of Bago City, another judoka who learned Aikido in Guam. It’s not clear in what year Prologo Sensei started teaching Aikido but it can be placed at 1985 the earliest based on testimonies by his earliest students, albeit it was under the banner of Shinsei Judo Club (SJC).

Among his children, Prologo Sensei taught his Philippine Dynamic Arnis to both his youngest daughters, Ma. Kristine Prologo and Naomi Prologo-Braza, but it was only Naomi who also studied Aikido and Judo under him.

During the early to mid 2000’s, Prologo Sensei issued a number of Black Belt club recognitions under Shinsei Aikido Society (SAS) to later generations of SAS practitioners. When Prologo Sensei finally retired from teaching in 2008, four of his black belts took over the teaching functions of the club. These individuals were Jhun Montemayor, Roger Rey Lucena, Bernie Belen, and Jonald "Jojo" Palomar.

Prologo Sensei was first brought to the public attention when Negros’ premier martial arts historian/writer James U. Sy Jr. featured him as a Bacolod Aikido pioneer in his documentary article “What is Aikido?” which was published in a February 1998 issue of Sun Star Bacolod. He was also featured in the documentary “Stickfighters of Buenos Aires” by W.G. Productions and Art Vision which aired over at Negros Progress Channel 17, through the help of Fr. Gerson Balitor. There he demonstrated his interpretation of the Aikido jo “short staff” and the basic strikes of his Philippine Dynamic Arnis System.

SAS Charter President Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, wrote a piece about Prologo Sensei entitled “Sensei Pat Prologo: Surmounting the Odds with Aikido” in the Vol. 11 No. 1 issue of the Rapid Journal, the one and only martial arts magazine in the Philippines, based in Binondo, Manila.

At the time of his death, Prologo Sensei held a 2nd Dan Black Belt in both Judo and Karate. He has been recognized as the Founder/Grandmaster of Prologo Style Traditional Philippine Dynamic Arnis System by the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, both 4th Degree Black Belt, through the authority of the group’s Council of Elders represented by Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido of Bago City, 1st Generation Inheritor of Original Filipino Tapado, and Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo of Bacolod City, 8th Dan Red Belt Tang Soo Do, Founder of Filipino Tang Soo Do.

SAS members in attendance during the birthday celebration were Bernie Belen, Jacqueline Doromal, P/Sgt. Vic Dueñas, Rey Eata, Eddie, Edgar Esteves, Roger Rey Lucena, Jhun Montemayor, Jonald “Jojo” Palomar, Winston Que, James U. Sy Jr., Jun Torres, Rufino Torres, Kahil Ybesate, and and Karlo Ybesate.

2nd UDTA-Mayor Bing Arnis Cup @ Gaisano to Go Reg’l by: James U. Sy Jr.

Abraham "Abe" G. Ganzon Jr., Founder/Chairman of Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA), announced recently that their upcoming 2nd UDTA-Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia Arnis Cup 2010, slated for October 2-3, 2010 at the Gaisano Bacolod Supermall, is expected to be the biggest Arnis competition in Bacolod and Negros Occidental for the year as several cities and municipalities in Western Visayas had already been invited and some have sent feelers for their support to the event.

The tournament will be under the sanction of Arnis Philippines Bacolod/Negros Chapter under Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo L. Cardinal and will have the generous support of the Bacolod City Government under Hon. Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia.

Invitations had already been sent to the following: Denny Castañeda Sensei of VILCAT Karate (La Carlota City), Arnis Philippines Iloilo City Commissioner Bonnie Celendro, Mary Grace F. Encila and Grandmaster Romeo Oro of the St. Columbans Academy Arnis Team (Cauayan), Escalante Arnis Team, Hon. Mayor Rene G. Gaudiel of Bayawan City, Arnis Trainor Master Sonnen Tajaran of the Tangalan, Aklan Arnis Team, Hon. Gov. Victor A. Tanco and Grandmaster Carlito Onillo of the Capiz Arnis Team, etc.

To accommodate as many entries as possible, competition had been limited to the Labanan “Sparring” Division. Arnis Philippines rules, the sole Philippine Government-recognized guidelines for Sport Arnis, will be used.

Immediate past Arnis Philippines Bacolod/Negros Commissioner Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo “Pope” C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., Founder/President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), is expected to grace the event.

Interested parties may contact Tournament Director Abraham "Abe" G. Ganzon Jr. at 0922-830-0432.