P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Founder of Guarra Style Modern Arnis, has officially succeeded Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., Founder of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), as President of the federation. GM Jalandoon made the appointment official last October 4, 2009. GM Jalandoon retired from his post for the reason of old age and health matters.
GM Jalandoon is one of the, if not the, most avid supporter of the indigenous Filipino Martial Art (FMA) of Arnis/Baston/Eskrima in Negros Occidental. He successfully brought together not less than 12 organizations under the collective banner of the NOBF and coordinated its members’ efforts to popularize and propagate the Filipino arts of self defense.
The NOBF, under GM Jalandoon’s leadership have organized tournaments using World Eskrima Kali Arnis Federation (WEKAF), Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi), and International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP) rules. Among the tournaments held during GM Jalandoon’s term as President were 1st Talisay City Baston Tournament (January 29, 2005, Talisay City), 1st Bacolod NOBF KaliSilat Sport Arnis Invitational Tournament (September 29-30, 2007, Gaisano City Bacolod Supermall), and 1st ArPi-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Goodwill Tournament (May 18, 2008, Casino Filipino Hotel).
GM Jalandoon also led the Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental in taking home a 1-3-5 medal haul during the 3rd Philippine Olympic Festival Visayas Qualifying Games Arnis Competition last July 25, 2008 at the NORSU Cultural Center, Negros Oriental State University, Dumaguete City.
During GM Jalandoon’s term as President of NOBF he had three Vice Presidents, namely Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of Guarra Style Modern Arnis (South Negros Occidental), Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez of the Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (Central Negros Occidental/Bacolod), and Grandmaster Jerson “Nene” Tortal of Dekiti Tirsia Siradas (North Negros Occidental).
GM Tortal went on to tour the US to propagate his own system while GM Lopez was elected President of International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter. GM Jalandoon turned over the Presidency of the federation to GM Guarra. Meanwhile, GM Jaladoon turned over his Commissionership of Arnis Philippines to NOBF Secretary Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” L. Cardinal of KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA)-Bacolod.
GM Guarra started his training in Arnis under his father Grandmaster Cornelio “Kune” Toledo Guarra, learning his father’s and his group’s fighting arts locally known as Herada Redoble or Espada y Daga. 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.
GM Guarra retired as a police sergeant after 32 years of service in the Bago City Integrated National Police (INP). He had served as a training staff of the Bago City Police Station, having trained auxiliary police in all barangays of Bago City. During his service, he had received many awards and commendations.
GM Guarra had served as Security Officer and ROTC Tactical Officer at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R). He started teaching Arnis publicly around 1970. By the time he retired from the force, he had already taught Arnis to more than 10,000 barangay tanods, police officers, security guards, and civilians.
GM Guarra had his own share of testinganay among different arnisadors in Bago City and other parts of Negros Occidental.
GM Guarra’s martial arts 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.
GM Guarra is Founder/Grandmaster/President of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis (formerly the the Gen. Juan A. Araneta School of Arnis) and had served as Vice President for Arnis Philippines (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter, Vice President-Internal Affairs for the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS), and Consultant for the International Modern Arnis Federation Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Arnis Now RP’s National Martial Art & Sport By: James U. Sy Jr.
RA 9850
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo officially signed into law Senate Bill 1424, authored by Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, as Republic Act No. 9850 “An Act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines“ on December 11, 2009.
RA 9850 makes Arnis as a requirement for the Physical Education (PE) course of the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS). The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is the lead agency tasked to implement RA 9850. The PSC will be inscribing the symbol of Arnis, that of the fighting sticks, in its official seal.
Those who signed the bill into law include Senators Manuelito “Lito” Lapid, Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, Mar Roxas, Richard Gordon, Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr., Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. and Representatives Arthur Pingoy, Jr. (2nd District, South Cotabato), Pryde Henry Teves (3rd District, Oriental Negros), Cesar Jalosjos (3rd District, Zamboanga del Norte), Nanette Castelo Daza (4th District, Quezon City), and Narciso Santiago III (Party-List, ARC).
It has been taught in schools that Sepak Takraw is the national sport of the Philippines and Dr. Jose P. Rizal is the national hero, alongside the national flower (Sampaguita), national tree (Nara), national bird (Philippine Eagle), etc. However, contrary to popular belief, no law or proclamation had named a national sport or national hero. Sepak Takraw is a Thai-Malay sport which many believe is Filipino.
Previously, there was HB030.64 “Act declaring Sikaran as the National Martial Art of the Philippines” filed by Cong. Isidro S. Rodriguez Jr. of the 2nd District of Rizal with co-authors Cong. Michael John R. Duavit, Cong. Ronaldo V. Puno and Cong. Victor R. Sumulong. It was filed on September 30, 2004 and was read on October 26, 2004.
THE LONG PATH TO RECOGNITION
The passing of RA 9850 is long overdue. The governments of neighboring Asian countries had given their respective martial traditions pioneering recognition and support years way ahead of the Philippines. Judo and Karate-do were successfully implemented in the Japanese school system even before WWII. China has a well oiled Wushu program and sends well trained athletes to spread their Wushu overseas. Korea unified the various kwans “schools (Hangul)” after WWII into what is now the Olympic sport of Taekwondo. The Thai Royalty had always patronized the development of Muay Thai among the Siamese populace.
The seminal efforts to integrate Arnis into the school system can be traced back to the 1970s with proclamations such as DECS Order No. 26, Series of 1975, which mandated concerned parties to engage in liaison with the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL), then the newly formed National Governing Body (NGB) for the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), for their Sports Development Program on Arnis. Other orders followed, among them DECS Order No. 58, Series of 1990 and DECS Memo No. 294, Series of 1995.
Senator Orlando “Orly” Mercado filed Senate Bill 280 on July 6, 1992 which required the inclusion of the study of Arnis as a Physical Education (PE) course in the secondary and tertiary level.
Cong. Juan Miguel F. Zubiri of the 3rd District of Bukidnon, with co-authors Cong. Raul V. Del Mar and Cong. Narciso D. Monfort, filed HB026-49 “Act declaring Arnis as the Philippine National Sport” on August 22, 2001. It was read on August 28, 2001 and was later substituted by HB05284. HB05284 was authored by Cong. Zubiri and co-authored by Cong. Lorna C. Silverio, Cong. Cecilia T. Taganas Layus, and Cong. Orlando A. Fua Jr. on October 4, 2004 and was read on October 9, 2004. The bill was approved on the second and third readings on November 18, 2002 and December 17, 2002 respectively. The house vote was 155 for yeas and none for nays and abstain. It was transmitted to the Senate on December 18, 2002.
Senate Bill 1424 is an “Act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Sport of the Philippines” was approved by the House on November 15, 2005, transmitted to on November 23, 2005 and received by the Senate on November 23, 2005.
DEFINITION
Arnis is the Filipino corruption of the Spanish Arnes “Trappings, armor,” which alludes to the arnisador’s reputed ability to defend himself as if he is protected by an armor. Before the term arnis was used, as in the case of Florante at Laura in the 1800s, Eskrima was used to refer to the Filipino way of fighting with weapons. Eskrima is the Filipino corruption of the Spanish Escrima “Fencing,” in reference to the blades used as weapons in the art.
HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
A lot has been written that Arnis, or Kali as some would have it, was used by the Mactan Chief Lapu-Lapu in killing the conquestadores Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan in 1521. The only existing historical record of this battle was that of Pigafetta. Pigafetta was very meticulous in his recording of the Cebuano’s culture but he have not mentioned that Lapu-Lapu did practice a martial art called Kali, this inspite of the fact that the Italian chronicler did list the weapons used by the natives and praised their skill in combat.
The early history of the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) was not systematically recorded by the early Filipinos. Information than can be established are those that can be derived from historical records, archaeological finds, linguistic studies, and research on related scientific fields. Much of what is passed on today as FMA history are oral traditions and most that find their way in cyberspace are unverified claims, distortions, and assumptions.
Nevertheless, it is beyond doubt that Filipinos were efficient with various forms of blades, sticks, daggers, and other weapons. It is a documented fact that many arnisadors/eskrimadors who fought as regular soldiers or guerillas in World War II used their skills in facing the Japanese in hand-to-hand combat.
The weapons used will generally dictate how an arnisador will manipulate his weapon. The Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) as a whole is a fusion of the martial traditions of the various races that have inhabited or occupied the archipelago or traded with the natives. One visible influence is from the Spaniards, who themselves were among the best fencers in Europe during the renaissance Period.
SPREAD OF ARNIS
Arnis was well and alive in the more remote places of the Philippines during a good part of the 20th Century but did not get enough attention in the more urbanized areas up until it became a hit overseas, particularly in the US. The newer generation went for Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, Aikido, and other Asian Martial Arts.
This was partly due to the fact that the early 20th Century practitioners of Arnis were fighters more than sportsmen, fighting with blades, sticks, knives, and what have you. Traditional training was contact oriented and less often than not training ends with blood. Since their skills were for survival, arnisadors were reluctant to teach their arts. If they ever did, they made sure they kept the more dangerous techniques for themselves. Commoditizing Arnis for mass consumption then was unheard of.
The gradual rise of Arnis to prominence started when the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL) was formed in 1975 to unify various schools. The famed Doce Pares of Cebu played a major role during this evolutionary stage of sport Arnis.
With the passing of time, Arnis was imported by Filipinos overseas, especially in the US, and it grew in popularity. Today, foreigners visit the Philippines to study directly from the grandmasters.
The efforts of both NARAPHIL and Arnis Philippines (ArPi) had evolved the sportive aspect of Arnis, making it more viable for public acceptance.
Arnis was included in the 1991 and 2005 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and is played in all 5 clusters of the Philippine Olympic Festival (POF) and 17 regions in the Palarong Pambansa.
NAT’L SPORT ASS’N
The National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL), formed in 1975, was the first National Sport Association (NSA)/National Governing Body (NGB) for the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Then Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Fabian C. Ver was its first president.
Since NARAPHIL was closely related to the Marcos regime, it lost its status as the NSA for FMA right after President Ferdinand E. Marcos was overthrown by the People’s Power and replaced by Corazon “Cory” C. Aquino (D: 2009), the widow of the late Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Sr. (D: 1983). Arnis Philippines (ArPi), founded as the Philippine Arnis Federation on July 11, 1986, became the next government recognized NSA for Arnis up to today. Raymond S. Velayo is its first president and to this day continues in such a capacity.
Arnis Philippines (ArPi) was incorporated by Velayo, Grandmaster Rolando Pintoy (a.k.a. Roland Dantes), Grandmaster Ernesto C. Presas, Rene Tongson, Diwa Sahagun, Jeremias V. de la Cruz, and Mario D, Malicsi with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on August 20, 1986.
Arnis Philippines (ArPi) is the 33rd official member of Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
The objectives of Arnis Philippines (ArPi) are 1) to be a major force in preserving our culture and the dying art of Arnis, 2) to consolidate and unite the different factions and groups of Arnis aficionados, and 3) to develop the sport aspect of Arnis for and in the hope of its inclusion in major sports events like the South East Asian Games (SEA Games), Asian Games, and ultimately the Olympics.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo officially signed into law Senate Bill 1424, authored by Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, as Republic Act No. 9850 “An Act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines“ on December 11, 2009.
RA 9850 makes Arnis as a requirement for the Physical Education (PE) course of the Department of Education, Culture, and Sports (DECS). The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) is the lead agency tasked to implement RA 9850. The PSC will be inscribing the symbol of Arnis, that of the fighting sticks, in its official seal.
Those who signed the bill into law include Senators Manuelito “Lito” Lapid, Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, Mar Roxas, Richard Gordon, Ramon “Bong” Revilla, Jr., Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. and Representatives Arthur Pingoy, Jr. (2nd District, South Cotabato), Pryde Henry Teves (3rd District, Oriental Negros), Cesar Jalosjos (3rd District, Zamboanga del Norte), Nanette Castelo Daza (4th District, Quezon City), and Narciso Santiago III (Party-List, ARC).
It has been taught in schools that Sepak Takraw is the national sport of the Philippines and Dr. Jose P. Rizal is the national hero, alongside the national flower (Sampaguita), national tree (Nara), national bird (Philippine Eagle), etc. However, contrary to popular belief, no law or proclamation had named a national sport or national hero. Sepak Takraw is a Thai-Malay sport which many believe is Filipino.
Previously, there was HB030.64 “Act declaring Sikaran as the National Martial Art of the Philippines” filed by Cong. Isidro S. Rodriguez Jr. of the 2nd District of Rizal with co-authors Cong. Michael John R. Duavit, Cong. Ronaldo V. Puno and Cong. Victor R. Sumulong. It was filed on September 30, 2004 and was read on October 26, 2004.
THE LONG PATH TO RECOGNITION
The passing of RA 9850 is long overdue. The governments of neighboring Asian countries had given their respective martial traditions pioneering recognition and support years way ahead of the Philippines. Judo and Karate-do were successfully implemented in the Japanese school system even before WWII. China has a well oiled Wushu program and sends well trained athletes to spread their Wushu overseas. Korea unified the various kwans “schools (Hangul)” after WWII into what is now the Olympic sport of Taekwondo. The Thai Royalty had always patronized the development of Muay Thai among the Siamese populace.
The seminal efforts to integrate Arnis into the school system can be traced back to the 1970s with proclamations such as DECS Order No. 26, Series of 1975, which mandated concerned parties to engage in liaison with the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL), then the newly formed National Governing Body (NGB) for the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), for their Sports Development Program on Arnis. Other orders followed, among them DECS Order No. 58, Series of 1990 and DECS Memo No. 294, Series of 1995.
Senator Orlando “Orly” Mercado filed Senate Bill 280 on July 6, 1992 which required the inclusion of the study of Arnis as a Physical Education (PE) course in the secondary and tertiary level.
Cong. Juan Miguel F. Zubiri of the 3rd District of Bukidnon, with co-authors Cong. Raul V. Del Mar and Cong. Narciso D. Monfort, filed HB026-49 “Act declaring Arnis as the Philippine National Sport” on August 22, 2001. It was read on August 28, 2001 and was later substituted by HB05284. HB05284 was authored by Cong. Zubiri and co-authored by Cong. Lorna C. Silverio, Cong. Cecilia T. Taganas Layus, and Cong. Orlando A. Fua Jr. on October 4, 2004 and was read on October 9, 2004. The bill was approved on the second and third readings on November 18, 2002 and December 17, 2002 respectively. The house vote was 155 for yeas and none for nays and abstain. It was transmitted to the Senate on December 18, 2002.
Senate Bill 1424 is an “Act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Sport of the Philippines” was approved by the House on November 15, 2005, transmitted to on November 23, 2005 and received by the Senate on November 23, 2005.
DEFINITION
Arnis is the Filipino corruption of the Spanish Arnes “Trappings, armor,” which alludes to the arnisador’s reputed ability to defend himself as if he is protected by an armor. Before the term arnis was used, as in the case of Florante at Laura in the 1800s, Eskrima was used to refer to the Filipino way of fighting with weapons. Eskrima is the Filipino corruption of the Spanish Escrima “Fencing,” in reference to the blades used as weapons in the art.
HISTORICAL OVERVIEW
A lot has been written that Arnis, or Kali as some would have it, was used by the Mactan Chief Lapu-Lapu in killing the conquestadores Ferdinand Magellan in the Battle of Mactan in 1521. The only existing historical record of this battle was that of Pigafetta. Pigafetta was very meticulous in his recording of the Cebuano’s culture but he have not mentioned that Lapu-Lapu did practice a martial art called Kali, this inspite of the fact that the Italian chronicler did list the weapons used by the natives and praised their skill in combat.
The early history of the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) was not systematically recorded by the early Filipinos. Information than can be established are those that can be derived from historical records, archaeological finds, linguistic studies, and research on related scientific fields. Much of what is passed on today as FMA history are oral traditions and most that find their way in cyberspace are unverified claims, distortions, and assumptions.
Nevertheless, it is beyond doubt that Filipinos were efficient with various forms of blades, sticks, daggers, and other weapons. It is a documented fact that many arnisadors/eskrimadors who fought as regular soldiers or guerillas in World War II used their skills in facing the Japanese in hand-to-hand combat.
The weapons used will generally dictate how an arnisador will manipulate his weapon. The Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) as a whole is a fusion of the martial traditions of the various races that have inhabited or occupied the archipelago or traded with the natives. One visible influence is from the Spaniards, who themselves were among the best fencers in Europe during the renaissance Period.
SPREAD OF ARNIS
Arnis was well and alive in the more remote places of the Philippines during a good part of the 20th Century but did not get enough attention in the more urbanized areas up until it became a hit overseas, particularly in the US. The newer generation went for Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, Aikido, and other Asian Martial Arts.
This was partly due to the fact that the early 20th Century practitioners of Arnis were fighters more than sportsmen, fighting with blades, sticks, knives, and what have you. Traditional training was contact oriented and less often than not training ends with blood. Since their skills were for survival, arnisadors were reluctant to teach their arts. If they ever did, they made sure they kept the more dangerous techniques for themselves. Commoditizing Arnis for mass consumption then was unheard of.
The gradual rise of Arnis to prominence started when the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL) was formed in 1975 to unify various schools. The famed Doce Pares of Cebu played a major role during this evolutionary stage of sport Arnis.
With the passing of time, Arnis was imported by Filipinos overseas, especially in the US, and it grew in popularity. Today, foreigners visit the Philippines to study directly from the grandmasters.
The efforts of both NARAPHIL and Arnis Philippines (ArPi) had evolved the sportive aspect of Arnis, making it more viable for public acceptance.
Arnis was included in the 1991 and 2005 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games and is played in all 5 clusters of the Philippine Olympic Festival (POF) and 17 regions in the Palarong Pambansa.
NAT’L SPORT ASS’N
The National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL), formed in 1975, was the first National Sport Association (NSA)/National Governing Body (NGB) for the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Then Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Fabian C. Ver was its first president.
Since NARAPHIL was closely related to the Marcos regime, it lost its status as the NSA for FMA right after President Ferdinand E. Marcos was overthrown by the People’s Power and replaced by Corazon “Cory” C. Aquino (D: 2009), the widow of the late Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Sr. (D: 1983). Arnis Philippines (ArPi), founded as the Philippine Arnis Federation on July 11, 1986, became the next government recognized NSA for Arnis up to today. Raymond S. Velayo is its first president and to this day continues in such a capacity.
Arnis Philippines (ArPi) was incorporated by Velayo, Grandmaster Rolando Pintoy (a.k.a. Roland Dantes), Grandmaster Ernesto C. Presas, Rene Tongson, Diwa Sahagun, Jeremias V. de la Cruz, and Mario D, Malicsi with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on August 20, 1986.
Arnis Philippines (ArPi) is the 33rd official member of Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) and recognized by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC).
The objectives of Arnis Philippines (ArPi) are 1) to be a major force in preserving our culture and the dying art of Arnis, 2) to consolidate and unite the different factions and groups of Arnis aficionados, and 3) to develop the sport aspect of Arnis for and in the hope of its inclusion in major sports events like the South East Asian Games (SEA Games), Asian Games, and ultimately the Olympics.
Peter Yap Sifu: Tai Chi Chuan’s Silent Sifu By: James U. Sy Jr.
In the past, I had written several news items and articles about the Tai Chi Circle of Bacolod (TCCB), the oldest recorded existing Tai Chi Chuan group in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental (founded: 2000), and the reader’s feedbacks were favorable. The day after one of my articles was published, three people approached the group to join. This is good since the group is focused on promoting the health of its members through the diligent practice of Tai Chi Chuan and what’s more they don’t charge for these lessons.
In another case, a reader who knows me approached me and asked some more information about the background of the group’s teacher, Peter Yap Sifu (Sifu is a familial title used in the Chinese Martial Arts which means “Father Teacher” and refers to the head a school or family). For the benefit of everybody who wants to know more about Mr. Yap, here are some pertinent backgrounders.
Peter John Lloren Yap Yan-Lian (B: 1944) is the eldest among 8 children by Ramon Yap Tian-See, who was from Lam Wah, Fujian, China, and Narcisa Lloren, a Filipina. He had to do hard labor at an early age, being the family’s bread winner. After all the hard work and sacrifices, he started his own business in 1975 in Bacolod City.
Yap started Tai Chi Chuan “Grand Ultimate Fist” relatively late. He used Tai Chi to rehabilitate himself from the wear and tear that was caused by hard labor in his early days. He learned a modified 108 posture form from a local Tai Chi Chuan master in Bacolod.
In 1992, Kung Fu action star and real life Chinese Martial Arts and Chi Kung/Qigong (Energy Skill) Master Li Jun-Feng, was sponsored by Cecil H. Magsaysay to teach Tai Chi Chuan in Bacolod for a month. Master Li was about 54 then. He was the Head coach of the Beijing Wushu Association and Counsel of the Research Committee of Chinese Qigong. He was one of the trainers of the then young 5 times All China Wushu champion and future Kung Fu superstar Jet Li Lian-Jie.
During Master Li’s first visit he taught the Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan simplified 24 posture form. The venue of practice was the property owned by the prominent businessman Benjamin “Bebe” Lopue Jr., which is now known as Benjamin Hall along Lacson St.
In 1993, Master Li went back to Bacolod and taught the 42 steps form at the Taoist Temple located at Kamunsil St. at the back of the University of St. La Salle. Enrique Dy Achiaw arranged with another prominent businessman Kaya Uy Se Kay, the owner of the temple, for the Tai Chi practice to be held there. Many had joined practice, among them prominent local martial artists such as Elmer V. Montoyo and Rene F. Cornel. Master Li invited Yap to his apartment for more concentrated training. Yap did daily training under Master Li.
Yap Sifu doesn’t consider himself a martial arts master. For him, learning is a life long pursuit; You only stop learning when you are dead. While it is true that Tai Chi Chuan was developed as a formidable form of martial art, the modern society no longer requires fighting to resolve matters. Tai Chi Chuan as taught in TCCB is to improve one’s quality of life through cultivation of the mind and inner peace, correct breathing, non-impact/non-injurious physical exercise through Tai Chi Chuan, proper diet, and health-centered lifestyle. TCCB’s focus is primarily on the teachings of the late Grandmaster Cheng Man-Ching.
TCCB members practice the 24 simplified form, 37 Chen Man-Ching form, and the 108 Yang Style long form. The 24 posture form is common to most, if not all, Tai Chi Chuan practitioners in Bacolod but the 37 and 108 are only practiced by members of TCCB, at least up to this point.
Since the TCCB’s founding in 2000, not less than 70 had already joined. However, most have come and go for one reason or the other. Currently the active members are Atty. Alexander Ang, Charles Atas, Andy Benedicto, Pepe Chiu, Guillermo “Bill” Gomez, Ianna Gomez, Bob Jereza, Pepito Khey, Bing Lim, Humberto “Toti” Lim Jr., Atty. Celedenio Perez Jr., Loubert Saho, Phoebus “Junby” Teruel, Ram Traigo, Jose Uy Jr., and Stephen Young.
TCCB offers Tai Chi Chuan lessons for FREE. Interested parties may contact Mr. Jose uy Jr. at 434-7664.
In another case, a reader who knows me approached me and asked some more information about the background of the group’s teacher, Peter Yap Sifu (Sifu is a familial title used in the Chinese Martial Arts which means “Father Teacher” and refers to the head a school or family). For the benefit of everybody who wants to know more about Mr. Yap, here are some pertinent backgrounders.
Peter John Lloren Yap Yan-Lian (B: 1944) is the eldest among 8 children by Ramon Yap Tian-See, who was from Lam Wah, Fujian, China, and Narcisa Lloren, a Filipina. He had to do hard labor at an early age, being the family’s bread winner. After all the hard work and sacrifices, he started his own business in 1975 in Bacolod City.
Yap started Tai Chi Chuan “Grand Ultimate Fist” relatively late. He used Tai Chi to rehabilitate himself from the wear and tear that was caused by hard labor in his early days. He learned a modified 108 posture form from a local Tai Chi Chuan master in Bacolod.
In 1992, Kung Fu action star and real life Chinese Martial Arts and Chi Kung/Qigong (Energy Skill) Master Li Jun-Feng, was sponsored by Cecil H. Magsaysay to teach Tai Chi Chuan in Bacolod for a month. Master Li was about 54 then. He was the Head coach of the Beijing Wushu Association and Counsel of the Research Committee of Chinese Qigong. He was one of the trainers of the then young 5 times All China Wushu champion and future Kung Fu superstar Jet Li Lian-Jie.
During Master Li’s first visit he taught the Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan simplified 24 posture form. The venue of practice was the property owned by the prominent businessman Benjamin “Bebe” Lopue Jr., which is now known as Benjamin Hall along Lacson St.
In 1993, Master Li went back to Bacolod and taught the 42 steps form at the Taoist Temple located at Kamunsil St. at the back of the University of St. La Salle. Enrique Dy Achiaw arranged with another prominent businessman Kaya Uy Se Kay, the owner of the temple, for the Tai Chi practice to be held there. Many had joined practice, among them prominent local martial artists such as Elmer V. Montoyo and Rene F. Cornel. Master Li invited Yap to his apartment for more concentrated training. Yap did daily training under Master Li.
Yap Sifu doesn’t consider himself a martial arts master. For him, learning is a life long pursuit; You only stop learning when you are dead. While it is true that Tai Chi Chuan was developed as a formidable form of martial art, the modern society no longer requires fighting to resolve matters. Tai Chi Chuan as taught in TCCB is to improve one’s quality of life through cultivation of the mind and inner peace, correct breathing, non-impact/non-injurious physical exercise through Tai Chi Chuan, proper diet, and health-centered lifestyle. TCCB’s focus is primarily on the teachings of the late Grandmaster Cheng Man-Ching.
TCCB members practice the 24 simplified form, 37 Chen Man-Ching form, and the 108 Yang Style long form. The 24 posture form is common to most, if not all, Tai Chi Chuan practitioners in Bacolod but the 37 and 108 are only practiced by members of TCCB, at least up to this point.
Since the TCCB’s founding in 2000, not less than 70 had already joined. However, most have come and go for one reason or the other. Currently the active members are Atty. Alexander Ang, Charles Atas, Andy Benedicto, Pepe Chiu, Guillermo “Bill” Gomez, Ianna Gomez, Bob Jereza, Pepito Khey, Bing Lim, Humberto “Toti” Lim Jr., Atty. Celedenio Perez Jr., Loubert Saho, Phoebus “Junby” Teruel, Ram Traigo, Jose Uy Jr., and Stephen Young.
TCCB offers Tai Chi Chuan lessons for FREE. Interested parties may contact Mr. Jose uy Jr. at 434-7664.
1st IFFMAS Meeting for 2010 Held By: James U. Sy Jr.
The Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) held its first monthly meeting for the year last January 2, 2009 at the Sea Breeze Hotel, San Juan St., Bacolod City. 12 school heads and associates from 9 martial arts organizations were in attendance.
Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo of the Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. presided the meeting. Treasurer Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Founder/Chairman of the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA), reported the member organizations which had already paid their annual dues for the year namely, Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, PIMAA-FTSDA, San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay, and UDTA.
Secretary General Sy reported to the body the signing into law of Republic Act 9850 “An act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines." P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis and Self Defense Association (GSMASDA) expressed his concerns on arnisadores being able to teach in the schools. Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas of the Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Foot Fighting (SKAFF) gave valuable insights based on his experience about sports competitions in the school system. GM Montoyo assured the members that IFFMAS will try its best to help organize its member schools for participation in this new development.
It was announced that CMAS is planning a multi-discipline tournament for the first quarter of 2010. Proposed divisions are IFFMAS Arnis, Filipino Tang Soo Do, Sipa Sumbag, and Wushu Sanshou. The Arnis event, which is based on rules that has been traditionally used in the Visayas in the early days, will have a total fight time of only 90 seconds, divided into three parts. The other divisions will have 2 2-minute rounds and a 1-minute rest period in between except for Wushu Sanshou which will have a third round, still lasting 2 minutes, the case of a tie.
Five of the attending member schools submitted their list of probable players for advance matching purposes.
Other school heads and associates who were in attendance included Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. of Tribu Hangaway (TH), Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo and his wife Cristita Guinabo of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS), Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido of Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc., Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa and his student, Arnis gold medalist Monica Gazo of Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA), and Doem John Oguilla of CMAS.
The Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) was founded by several martial arts organizations as the Intercontinental Federation of Martial Arts Schools (IFMAS) on July 15, 2005 in Bacolod City. It was registered as a non-profit, non-stock organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through the efforts of its Treasurer Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) Founder/Chairman Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. on December 4, 2008 (SEC Reg. No. CN200831301). Incorporators were Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, Roy R. Flores Sr., Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Dr. Raymund Antonio A. Maguad, Elmer V. Montoyo, and James U. Sy Jr.
Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo of the Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. presided the meeting. Treasurer Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Founder/Chairman of the Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA), reported the member organizations which had already paid their annual dues for the year namely, Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founders/Masters James U. Sy Jr. and Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, PIMAA-FTSDA, San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay, and UDTA.
Secretary General Sy reported to the body the signing into law of Republic Act 9850 “An act declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines." P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis and Self Defense Association (GSMASDA) expressed his concerns on arnisadores being able to teach in the schools. Founder/Master Ricardo P. Filipinas of the Sacred Ki Art of Filipino Foot Fighting (SKAFF) gave valuable insights based on his experience about sports competitions in the school system. GM Montoyo assured the members that IFFMAS will try its best to help organize its member schools for participation in this new development.
It was announced that CMAS is planning a multi-discipline tournament for the first quarter of 2010. Proposed divisions are IFFMAS Arnis, Filipino Tang Soo Do, Sipa Sumbag, and Wushu Sanshou. The Arnis event, which is based on rules that has been traditionally used in the Visayas in the early days, will have a total fight time of only 90 seconds, divided into three parts. The other divisions will have 2 2-minute rounds and a 1-minute rest period in between except for Wushu Sanshou which will have a third round, still lasting 2 minutes, the case of a tie.
Five of the attending member schools submitted their list of probable players for advance matching purposes.
Other school heads and associates who were in attendance included Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. of Tribu Hangaway (TH), Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo and his wife Cristita Guinabo of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS), Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido of Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick Fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc., Grandmaster Jose “Joe” Mancesa and his student, Arnis gold medalist Monica Gazo of Negros United Fighting Arts Academy (NUFAA), and Doem John Oguilla of CMAS.
The Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) was founded by several martial arts organizations as the Intercontinental Federation of Martial Arts Schools (IFMAS) on July 15, 2005 in Bacolod City. It was registered as a non-profit, non-stock organization with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) through the efforts of its Treasurer Universal Defensive Tactics Academy (UDTA) Founder/Chairman Abraham G. Ganzon Jr. on December 4, 2008 (SEC Reg. No. CN200831301). Incorporators were Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, Roy R. Flores Sr., Abraham G. Ganzon Jr., Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Dr. Raymund Antonio A. Maguad, Elmer V. Montoyo, and James U. Sy Jr.
Gathering of Arnisadors Held By: James U. Sy Jr.
Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., Founder of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), called for a Christmas gathering of arnisadors last December 26, 2009 at the Apollo Chinese Restaurant, Cuadra St., Bacolod City.
GM Jalandoon retired as the President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) and the Commissioner of Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi) for Bacolod City and Negros Occidental last March 2009 for the reasons of old age and health matters. The venerable master, after several months of absence, missed the group and the Christmas season was the best time for a reunion.
GM Jalandoon is known as a good organizer and supporter of Arnis, who succeeded in bringing together about 12 clubs more or else under the banner of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF). He had tirelessly sponsored Arnis tournaments for the propagation of the art to the next generation. A memorable event he hosted was the 1st Talisay Baston Tournament held on January 30, 2007 at the Talisay Gym, Brgy. 2, Talisay City.
In attendance were P/SUPT. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez of the Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), representing International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter; P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis and Self Defense Association (GSMASDA), representing Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF); Director/Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” Cardinal and Master Guilberto “Dagul” Dajao of the KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA)-Bacolod, representing Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter; and Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., representing Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS).
The association heads gave GM Jalandoon updates on their respective endeavors and achievements for the 2nd to 4th quarters of 2009.
After the merienda and before the gathering was officially ended, meetings were scheduled as follows: IMAFP-Bacolod/Neg. Occ. for the first week of every month, ArPi-Bacolod/Neg. Occ. every second week, and NOBF every third week.
GM Jalandoon retired as the President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF) and the Commissioner of Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi) for Bacolod City and Negros Occidental last March 2009 for the reasons of old age and health matters. The venerable master, after several months of absence, missed the group and the Christmas season was the best time for a reunion.
GM Jalandoon is known as a good organizer and supporter of Arnis, who succeeded in bringing together about 12 clubs more or else under the banner of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF). He had tirelessly sponsored Arnis tournaments for the propagation of the art to the next generation. A memorable event he hosted was the 1st Talisay Baston Tournament held on January 30, 2007 at the Talisay Gym, Brgy. 2, Talisay City.
In attendance were P/SUPT. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez of the Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA), representing International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter; P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra of the Guarra Style Modern Arnis and Self Defense Association (GSMASDA), representing Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF); Director/Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” Cardinal and Master Guilberto “Dagul” Dajao of the KaliSilat Arnis Association (KAA)-Bacolod, representing Arnis Philippine, Inc. (ArPi)-Bacolod/Negros Occidental Chapter; and Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., representing Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS).
The association heads gave GM Jalandoon updates on their respective endeavors and achievements for the 2nd to 4th quarters of 2009.
After the merienda and before the gathering was officially ended, meetings were scheduled as follows: IMAFP-Bacolod/Neg. Occ. for the first week of every month, ArPi-Bacolod/Neg. Occ. every second week, and NOBF every third week.
4th CEFIMAC-CNC M.A. Festival Held By: James U. Sy Jr.
The 4th CEFIMAC-CNC M.A. Festival was successfully held by the Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club (CEFIMAC)-Central Negros College (CNC) in cooperation with the San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC)-Main of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay, 3rd Degree Black Belt, under the sanction of the Combat Taekwondo Club (CTC)-Main of Founder/Master Lt. Col. (Ret.) Founder/President/Master Epifanio F. Mercado, 6th Degree Black Belt, and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under its President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, 8th Degree Red/Black Belt, during the Central Negros College (CNC) College Day Celebration last December 18, 2009 at the CNC Quadrangle, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
TAEKWONDO. CEFIMAC was crowned champion with a 4-2-0 medal haul. 2nd to 4th places were Ritarians Martial Arts Club (RMAC)-Colegio de Sta. Rita (3-4-0), Brgy. 6 Martial Arts Club under Instructor Fortunato Mateo Jr. and Hon. Brgy. Capt. Jessel Bagacay (1-2-0), and San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay (1-1-0).
KICKBOXING. CEFIMAC-CNC was crowned champion in the Kickboxing event, wining all four matches fought. 48 kg.: Adonis Jarabjarab of CEFIMAC over Rinter Bago of Brgy. 6. 52 kg.: John Fred Beating of CEFIMAC over Raymund Alvarez of SACA JUFIMAC. 58 kg.: Leonard Indico of CEFIMAC over Edgardo Talledo Jr. of SACA JUFIMAC-Guadalupe Chapter. 55 kg. Main Event: Neil Avila of CEFIMAC over Ramonito Despi of Roaring Panther Self Defense Society.
WUSHU SANSHOU. Leo Edmond Estralloso of CEFIMAC over Jomay Bernardo of SACA JUFIMAC-Main.
The Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club (CEFIMAC)-Central Negros College (CNC) is part of a network of martial arts clubs under the umbrella of San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay. Other sister clubs include SACA JUFIMAC-Brgy. Guadalupe (San Carlos) Chapter, Brgy. 6 Martial Arts Club (San Carlos), Red Dragon Fighters Martial Arts Club (RDFMAC, Calatrava), and Ritarians Martial Arts Club (RMAC) based at the Colegio de Sta. Rita.
SACA JUFIMAC made history when it became the first martial arts school to introduce Wushu Sanshou in San Carlos City on March 15, 2005 through a tournament. The competition became 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.
The Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club (CEFIMAC)-Central Negros College (CNC), through the San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC), is a member of the Combat Taekwondo Club-Main (CTC-Main) of (Ret.) Lt. Col. Master Epifanio F. Mercado, 6th Degree Black Belt, and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, 8th Degree Red/Black Belt. 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 and the Visayas Full Contact Martial Art Federation (Cebu) of Master Florentino Aligang
TAEKWONDO. CEFIMAC was crowned champion with a 4-2-0 medal haul. 2nd to 4th places were Ritarians Martial Arts Club (RMAC)-Colegio de Sta. Rita (3-4-0), Brgy. 6 Martial Arts Club under Instructor Fortunato Mateo Jr. and Hon. Brgy. Capt. Jessel Bagacay (1-2-0), and San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay (1-1-0).
KICKBOXING. CEFIMAC-CNC was crowned champion in the Kickboxing event, wining all four matches fought. 48 kg.: Adonis Jarabjarab of CEFIMAC over Rinter Bago of Brgy. 6. 52 kg.: John Fred Beating of CEFIMAC over Raymund Alvarez of SACA JUFIMAC. 58 kg.: Leonard Indico of CEFIMAC over Edgardo Talledo Jr. of SACA JUFIMAC-Guadalupe Chapter. 55 kg. Main Event: Neil Avila of CEFIMAC over Ramonito Despi of Roaring Panther Self Defense Society.
WUSHU SANSHOU. Leo Edmond Estralloso of CEFIMAC over Jomay Bernardo of SACA JUFIMAC-Main.
The Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club (CEFIMAC)-Central Negros College (CNC) is part of a network of martial arts clubs under the umbrella of San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) of Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay. Other sister clubs include SACA JUFIMAC-Brgy. Guadalupe (San Carlos) Chapter, Brgy. 6 Martial Arts Club (San Carlos), Red Dragon Fighters Martial Arts Club (RDFMAC, Calatrava), and Ritarians Martial Arts Club (RMAC) based at the Colegio de Sta. Rita.
SACA JUFIMAC made history when it became the first martial arts school to introduce Wushu Sanshou in San Carlos City on March 15, 2005 through a tournament. The competition became 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.
The Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club (CEFIMAC)-Central Negros College (CNC), through the San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC), is a member of the Combat Taekwondo Club-Main (CTC-Main) of (Ret.) Lt. Col. Master Epifanio F. Mercado, 6th Degree Black Belt, and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, 8th Degree Red/Black Belt. 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 and the Visayas Full Contact Martial Art Federation (Cebu) of Master Florentino Aligang
The Women of Arnis: Shiela M. Duran By: James U. Sy Jr.
Even before Arnis (Eskrima for the Cebuanos) was named as the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines yours truly have been documenting this indigenous art since 1995 in the local front where a scarcity of established records have left many arnisadors unrecognized outside their own locality. I have traveled to a considerable part of Negros and in these travels I have only came across a few women who were into Arnis.
For obvious reasons it was only recently when more women got involved in Arnis. Traditional training as conducted by the old timers involved unpadded contact and hematoma in the different parts of the body was a regular occurrence. In other cases, bladed weapons had been used, just like in the case of the late Grandmaster Santiago “Tiaging” Tolentino of Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis who trained American professor, researcher/writer, and Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) Master Dr. Ronald A. Harris in the 1980s.
Predictably, with the official state recognition of Arnis, more women will be encouraged to be involved in this truly Filipino martial and cultural art. For this issue, let me present to you dear readers to Shiela M. Duran.
Shiela M. Duran is a Teacher II at the Mandalagan Elementary School handling MSEPT (Music, Arts, and Physical Education). She also serves the school as a Library Hub Coordinator and an ICT (Information Computer Technology) Coordinator. She completed her academic requirements in Master of Arts in Education at the Carlos A. Hilado Memorial State College in Talisay City in 2006.
Duran, who is Woodbadge holder, is a District I Coordinator for the Boy Scout of the Philippines and is a training team member (Bacolod City Division).
She is a 1st Dan Black Belt (Coach/Trainor) in Taekwondo under Frankie Tortogo of Wolfhound Taekwondo Club and a Brown Belt in Karate-do under Bert Ginete Sensei and Dr. Mariel Defallo of the Renzoku Martial Arts Academy (RMAC).
Duran is a member of the Bacolod Chapter of Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA) of P/SUPT. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez, International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter under its President, GM Lopez, and Arnis Philippine, Inc.-Bacolod/Negros Chapter under Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” Cardinal. She serves as Secretary of IMAFP-Bacolod Chapter.
She started studying Arnis in 2007 and is currently recognized as a Master in Arnis by GKAKEA of GM Lopez. She holds the distinction as the first female to be nationally accredited in Arnis DepEd, first female Regional Referee in Negros for Arnis Philippines, and one of the two female International Referee for International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (the other is Lisa Masicampo).
For obvious reasons it was only recently when more women got involved in Arnis. Traditional training as conducted by the old timers involved unpadded contact and hematoma in the different parts of the body was a regular occurrence. In other cases, bladed weapons had been used, just like in the case of the late Grandmaster Santiago “Tiaging” Tolentino of Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis who trained American professor, researcher/writer, and Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) Master Dr. Ronald A. Harris in the 1980s.
Predictably, with the official state recognition of Arnis, more women will be encouraged to be involved in this truly Filipino martial and cultural art. For this issue, let me present to you dear readers to Shiela M. Duran.
Shiela M. Duran is a Teacher II at the Mandalagan Elementary School handling MSEPT (Music, Arts, and Physical Education). She also serves the school as a Library Hub Coordinator and an ICT (Information Computer Technology) Coordinator. She completed her academic requirements in Master of Arts in Education at the Carlos A. Hilado Memorial State College in Talisay City in 2006.
Duran, who is Woodbadge holder, is a District I Coordinator for the Boy Scout of the Philippines and is a training team member (Bacolod City Division).
She is a 1st Dan Black Belt (Coach/Trainor) in Taekwondo under Frankie Tortogo of Wolfhound Taekwondo Club and a Brown Belt in Karate-do under Bert Ginete Sensei and Dr. Mariel Defallo of the Renzoku Martial Arts Academy (RMAC).
Duran is a member of the Bacolod Chapter of Golden Kamagong Arnis Kali Eskrima Association (GKAKEA) of P/SUPT. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Ibarra E. Lopez, International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (IMAFP)-Bacolod Chapter under its President, GM Lopez, and Arnis Philippine, Inc.-Bacolod/Negros Chapter under Commissioner Grandmaster Danilo “Danny” Cardinal. She serves as Secretary of IMAFP-Bacolod Chapter.
She started studying Arnis in 2007 and is currently recognized as a Master in Arnis by GKAKEA of GM Lopez. She holds the distinction as the first female to be nationally accredited in Arnis DepEd, first female Regional Referee in Negros for Arnis Philippines, and one of the two female International Referee for International Modern Arnis Federation, Philippines (the other is Lisa Masicampo).
Saturday, January 2, 2010
CMAS Workshop Held By: James U. Sy Jr.
Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., conducted an impromptu 1-hour workshop for three security guards last December 30, 2009 in Brgy. Alijis, Bacolod City.
The lesson primarily centered on the Arnis footwork based on the eight points of the compass as taught in the Conceptual Martial Arts System. Although the techniques taught in CMAS are also found in other systems of martial arts, footwork is given paramount importance because even the most powerful and/or fastest defense or attack will not succeed or connect if the distance is not correct. The added length of the weapon in the indigenous Filipino art of Arnis/Eskrima develops a greater sense and appreciation of distance.
One restraining/eviction hold from Japanese Aikido was taught and a few self defense techniques were demonstrated. Short lectures on suspect psychology and apprehension was also given.
Sy has 24 years combined martial arts experience and is ranked as a Master in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) by grandmasters from Negros and Panay. CMAS, which he co-founded with Master Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, is a proud member of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under its President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo.
The lesson primarily centered on the Arnis footwork based on the eight points of the compass as taught in the Conceptual Martial Arts System. Although the techniques taught in CMAS are also found in other systems of martial arts, footwork is given paramount importance because even the most powerful and/or fastest defense or attack will not succeed or connect if the distance is not correct. The added length of the weapon in the indigenous Filipino art of Arnis/Eskrima develops a greater sense and appreciation of distance.
One restraining/eviction hold from Japanese Aikido was taught and a few self defense techniques were demonstrated. Short lectures on suspect psychology and apprehension was also given.
Sy has 24 years combined martial arts experience and is ranked as a Master in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) by grandmasters from Negros and Panay. CMAS, which he co-founded with Master Narciso “Hansy” L. Alojado, is a proud member of the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) under its President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo.
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