Commentary by a Master

" Aside from giving a commentary via dialogue, chief GM Benefredo Mamar Lobrido, headmaster and President of OFTLSFAI used a commentary by means of an example. Such was his comment during our recent visit. He commented on certain demonstrations wherein the performer  was doing injustice to the art that he was representing. In particular in showing espada y daga form or techniques. He recently witnessed a demo on espada y dag which he noticed that it was very far away from the form by the ancients master and those who really practices the form. He commented that such an action of the performer was doing injustice to the art. Such should not be done. He even commented that it was a shame that such an injustice was done to the art. He admonished us who are members of many styles that we should never do a demo in a haphazard way. We should give justice by doing it the traditional way. That is why after admonishing us, Chief Bebing, as we call him, took two sticks and demonstrated to us the way we should do it.
         He said that he might have not shown the ancient way but his performance was near to the traditional way. Practice before doing the demonstration that is what he told us. and his last word was, :Makahuluya, indi amo"

Culture Nurture: Lloyd Luna on Financial Freedom by: James U. Sy Jr.

Lloyd Luna conducted Untangled: A Talk on Financial Freedom recently with the sponsorship of the Rotaract Club of Bacolod North in partnership with Rotaract Club of Bacolod-Metro USLS Chapter recently at the MM Auditorium A, University of St. La Salle (USLS), La Salle Ave., Bacolod City. The talk was attended by many students and professionals alike. Luna was one of four millionaires at age 25 to be featured in Korina Sanchez' Rated K which airs over at ABS-CBN. While others have inherited or acquired their wealth through fame, Luna got his through hard work. As a motivational speaker, he has given talks the Philippines, Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (Korea), Ho Chi Minh (Vietnam), Bandar Seri Begawan (Brunei), Singapore, Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Kota Kinabalu (Malaysia), and Dubai (UAE). Luna emphasized that one must have a good reason why one would want money. If that reason is just to buy an iPod, then the drive to stop earning just stops when the iPod is bought. For him, earning is for the purpose of living life comfortably. Earning money, whether through employment or by entrepreneurship, requires that one has to love what he is doing otherwise it would be such a burden that one burns out and stops completely. Luna pointed out that if a person only relies on one source of income, such as a salary, and his bills are piling up, then there is always a possibility that he will miss a payment or two. For Luna, multiple expenses requires multiple sources of income. He gave himself as an example. He has a lot of sources of income to keep the funds coming in. That includes being a motivational speaker, an author, a multi-level marketer, and much more. Luna was not a boring speaker, as he immediately caught the attention of the audience right from the start. He has the uncanny ability to integrate humor into an otherwise serious subject. At one point he offered a freebie. "Who wants this?" Many raised their hands but only one was brave enough to stand up and get it from Luna. Luna drove his point that if one wants something he must stand up and go get it and not just to sit around. The close to 3-hours lecture was without a dull moment. The attendees had their bonding moment with Luna after the talk. The talk was organized with the leadership of by Jireh Benedicto Castillo, Pre3sident of Rotaract Club of Bacolod-North, and Jame Ann Almaiz, Pre3sident of Rotaract Club of Bacolod-Metro USLS Chapter. Also in attrndance were Rotarian Joel Jaranilla, PDRR Ruvinier Viñarta - District 3850, and IPP Sammy Uy Jr., VP JB Niño Barredo, PP Jude Quingco, and PP Johan Villanueva. Interested parties may check out Luna's innovative thoughts on financial freedom at his website www.lloydluna.com or Facebook account https://www.facebook.com/lloydluna?fref=ts.

San Carlos City Won 5 Arnis Gold In Area 1 Meet by James U. Sy Jr.

San Carlos City took home 6 championship gold medals during the Area 1 Athletic Meet Arnis Competition last November 26-27, 2013 in escalante city, negros Occidental. Ionabeth G. Mamugay of San Carlos City (San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club) won a double championship for San Carlos City. She beat Jianne Mabug-at of Escalante City and Rainbie Gelardez of Calatrava to be crowned champion in the Anyo Girls Elementary Category A. Mamugay defeated Gelardez on points to snatch the Labanan Girls Elementary Category A title. Johnrey Olbedencia of San Carlos City (Central Negros College- Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club) won over Ricardo Tiauzon of Escalante City by points to claim the Labanan Secondary Boys Finweight title. Junrey Laparan of San Carlos City (Julio Ledesma National High School) beat Joven Pabon of Escalante City by points to secure the Labanan Secondary Boys Bantamweight gold. Jendie Camposf of San Carlos City (Julio Ledesma National High School) defeated Arcelie Mosquera of Escalante City by points to snatch the Labanan Secondary Girls Flyweight crown. Bienalyn Campos of San Carlos City (Central Negros College- Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club) overwhelmed Juve Janghal of Escalante City to win the Labanan Secondary Girls Bantamweight plum. San carlos City Arnis Team Officials were Mrs. Trinidad Bayutas (Coach, elementary girls), Mr. Rosani G. Velarde (Coach, secondary boys) and Ms. marilyn Abasolo (Asst. Coach), and Ms. Hope sevilla (Coach, secondary girls) and Mrs. Traya (Asst. Coach). San Carlos technical officials were Mr. jose Roy Zerna (Tournament Manager), Nilo Senador and Cecilio Caballero (Judges), and Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay of San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) (Trainor). Escalante City officials were Ms. Mery Jean Tiauzon (Tournament Manager) and Mr. Renante Mahilum (Asst. manager). Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay holds a Manunudlo I teaching license in the Conceptual Arnis System and his San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) affiliated with the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. (Bacolod City), which is a member of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder/President Emeritus Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo "Pope" C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao T. Guarra. He also holds a 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. Mamugay had also trained fighters who took home medals and honors in Western Boxing, Kickboxing, Taekwondo, and Wushu sanshou for San Carlos City.

San Carlos City Won 5 Arnis Gold In Area 1 Meet by James U. Sy Jr.

San Carlos City took home 6 championship gold medals during the Area 1 Athletic Meet Arnis Competition last November 26-27, 2013 in escalante city, negros Occidental. Ionabeth G. Mamugay of San Carlos City (San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club) won a double championship for San Carlos City. She beat Jianne Mabug-at of Escalante City and Rainbie Gelardez of Calatrava to be crowned champion in the Anyo Girls Elementary Category A. Mamugay defeated Gelardez on points to snatch the Labanan Girls Elementary Category A title. Johnrey Olbedencia of San Carlos City (Central Negros College- Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club) won over Ricardo Tiauzon of Escalante City by points to claim the Labanan Secondary Boys Finweight title. Junrey Laparan of San Carlos City (Julio Ledesma National High School) beat Joven Pabon of Escalante City by points to secure the Labanan Secondary Boys Bantamweight gold. Jendie Camposf of San Carlos City (Julio Ledesma National High School) defeated Arcelie Mosquera of Escalante City by points to snatch the Labanan Secondary Girls Flyweight crown. Bienalyn Campos of San Carlos City (Central Negros College- Centralian Fighters Martial Arts Club) overwhelmed Juve Janghal of Escalante City to win the Labanan Secondary Girls Bantamweight plum. San carlos City Arnis Team Officials were Mrs. Trinidad Bayutas (Coach, elementary girls), Mr. Rosani G. Velarde (Coach, secondary boys) and Ms. marilyn Abasolo (Asst. Coach), and Ms. Hope sevilla (Coach, secondary girls) and Mrs. Traya (Asst. Coach). San Carlos technical officials were Mr. jose Roy Zerna (Tournament Manager), Nilo Senador and Cecilio Caballero (Judges), and Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay of San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) (Trainor). Escalante City officials were Ms. Mery Jean Tiauzon (Tournament Manager) and Mr. Renante Mahilum (Asst. manager). Founder/Chief Instructor Diomedes N. Mamugay holds a Manunudlo I teaching license in the Conceptual Arnis System and his San Carlos Jungle Fighters Martial Arts Club (SACA JUFIMAC) affiliated with the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. (Bacolod City), which is a member of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder/President Emeritus Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo "Pope" C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao T. Guarra. He also holds a 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. Mamugay had also trained fighters who took home medals and honors in Western Boxing, Kickboxing, Taekwondo, and Wushu sanshou for San Carlos City.

Bago City (RTNHS) Crowned Area 4 Arnis Overall Champion by James U. Sy Jr.

Host Bago City, represented by the Ramon Torres National High School (RTNHS) Arnis Team, was crowned overall champion in the Area 4 Meet Arnis Competition last November 13-15, 2013 in Bago City, negros Occidental with a 22-4 gold silver medal haul. Gold medalists for Labanan Boys Secondary were Joram Paul Pangcobila, Jhunnie Rhey Pangcobila, and Christian Reyes; silver medalists were John Israel Ermeo and Clyde Jason Poral. Gold medalists for Labanan Girls Secondary were Alhea Katryn Balboa, Leizl Matulac, Kyle Presente, and Ma. Angelica Mae Sta. Ana; silver medalist was Angel Joy libres. Gold medalists for Anyo Individual Boys Solo Baston were Joram Paul Pangcobila and Christian Reyes. Gold medalists for Anyo Team Boys Solo Baston were Joram Paul Pangcobila, Jhunnie Rhey Pangcobila, and Christian Reyes. Gold medalists for Anyo Team Boys Doble Baston were Joram Paul Pangcobila, Jhunnie Rhey Pangcobila, and Christian Reyes. Gold medalists for Anyo Individual Girls Solo Baston was Leizl Matulac; silver medalists for Anyo Individual Girls Doble Baston was Kyle Presente. Gold medalists for Anyo Team Girls Solo Baston wereAlhea Katryn Balboa, Leizl Matulac, and Kyle Presente. Gold medalists for Anyo Team Girls Doble Baston were Alhea Katryn Balboa, Leizl Matulac, and Kyle Presente. Tournament Manager was Randy Alvarado of RTNHS. Officials for the Bago (RTNHS) Arnis team were Wilson Alvarado (Trainor - boys, Labanan and Anyo), Randy Alvarado (Trainor - girls, Labanan), Brian Martir (Coach, boys), and Ruel Pineda (Coach, girls).

11th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors Coming to Gaisano Grand This Sat. by James U. Sy Jr.

Apprentice Instructors Cyril Indonila (right) and Vincent Española of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) performing Trecegrabes Piga-piga Arnis System at the Manville Royale Grounds, Araneta Avenue, Pahanocoy, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo). In the continuing efforts of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. under Founder/Grandmaster Atty. Col. Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra to propagate the indigenous fighting arts of the province, the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) under Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, one of the fed’s most active member schools, will be hosting the 11th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors this coming November 30, 2013 (Bonifacio Day), 1:00 PM, at the Atrium Area, Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall (GGBM), Araneta St., Bacolod City. The event will be held with the support of the Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall represented by Advertising Officer Nomer Lobaton. The event will feature both demonstrations and a tournament. The Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) Inc. Arnis will be used. Organizations that have confirmed participation in the tournament include host Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, Maharlika Classical Arnis Club (MCAC) of Grandmaster Mansueto Banay, Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) of Founder/Grandmaster Romeo Postrano, and Tribu Hanagaway Association Inc. (THAI) of Founder/Master Roy R. Flors Sr. Organizations that will give demonstrations or serve as tournament officials include Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., Guarra Style Modern Arnis of Founder/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao T. Guarra, Murcia Martial Arts Club (MMAC) of Founder/Master Luciano “Nick” G. Montoya, Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. under Founder/Grandmaster Atty. Col. Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., Original Filipino Tapado Long Stick fighting Association (OFTLSFA), Inc. of 1st Generation Inheritor/Grandmaster GM Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido, Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Association (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. of Founder/Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo, Pangamut International (PI) of Founder Master Stephen Roy S. Dedel, and Yasay Sable-Bago represented by Instructors Wilson and Randy A. Alvarado. The Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc., through the efforts of its member schools, had already organized a total of 7 martial arts tournaments/expos and 7 seminars/special trainings for the year. The martial arts tournaments/expos held were 1st Negros Indigenous Fighting Arts Expo (April 6, 2013), Tribe WAR XI (May 11, 2013), 4th Tribu Aikido Competition (May 26, 2013), 9th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors (June 23, 2013), 10th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors (July 27, 2013), Tribe WAR XII (October 26, 2013), and 11th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors (November 30, 2013). The seminars/special trainings conducted were PAGCOR Women's Self Defense Seminar (March 13, 2013), KM The Bladed Hand Tour-Bacolod Leg (March 19, 2013), Brgy. Malingin Tanod Training (July 6 & 13, 2013), Introduction to Aikido Seminar (UNO-R, August 14, 2013), Arnis Interview (USLS PE students, August 2013), Negros Martial Culture Lecture (Riverside College, October 4, 2013), and Arnis Stickwork for Dance (St. John’s Institute, October 8, 2013).

Sport Karate-do Introduced to UNO-R Students by James U. Sy Jr.

Student-members of the UNO-R Martial Arts Club (UNO-R MAC) under the mentorship of Criminology Department Defensive Tactics (DEFTAC) Instructor Master Ferdinand Emmanuel “Bobot” Y. Gayoles were officially introduced to Philippine Karate-do Federation (PKF) style Sports Karate by Cromwill Samson Sensei of La Carlota City recently at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), Lizares St., Bacolod City. Samson Sensei, National Coach and 1st dan black belt PKF, introduced the students, most of whom were from the Criminology Department, to the training methods as taught by the Philippine Karate-do Federation (PKF), the sole recognized National Sport Association (NSA) for Karate-do in the country by the Philippine Government. The UNO-R students had hands-on work on the exercises used by the Philippine Karate-do Team. The initial training focused on the mawashi geri “roundhouse kick (Nihonggo),” both from the rear and the lead leg. Samson Sensei is the Negros Occidental Representative for the Advocacy for the Strengthening of Karate-do (ASK) of Founder Ramon Franco Kyoshi, 7th dan black belt WKF, and is an International Coach for the Asian Karate-do Federation (PKF). Master Gayoles started handling the DefTac classes at UNO-R in 2008. Since then he has developed a simple yet effective syllabus for use by criminology students. He drew from his extensive experience in the martial arts to come up with what he calls an "idiot-proof" system geared towards law enforcement work. Gayoles is certified as a Master in four system of Negrpsanon Arnis - his family system of Yasay Sable, Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis, Oido de Caburata (Aguilar line), and Vasquez Modified Tapado - and is also 3rd Dan in WTF-style Taekwondo and a Black Belt in Karate. To give his students a broader exposure to the different fighting arts, he has invited a number of accomplished teachers to introduce their specialties to his class. Two other teachers who had taught his DefTac students were Henried B. lamayo Sensei, 3rd Dan Judo, Founder/Chief Instructor of Seijitsu Judo Dojo, and James U. Sy Jr. Sensei, 1st Dan Aikido, Founder of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. The Sports Karate course will be conducted continuously every Wednesday for students who are interested to train and later represent the university in competitions such as the NOPSCEA and the Nationals.

New City Mall Hosts Tribe WAR XII by James U. Sy Jr.

Some of the organizers, officials, guests, and participants of the Tribe WAR (Warrior's Art Rumble) XII on October 27, 2013 at the Ground Floor, New City Mall, Luzuriaga St., Bacolod City (Mikayla P. Abancio/THAI photo). The Tribe WAR (Warrior's Art Rumble) XII was successfully held by the Tribu Hangaway Association Inc. (THAI) of Master Roy R. Flores in cooperation with New City Mall, Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc., and Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS), Inc. on October 27, 2013 at the Ground Floor, New City Mall, Luzuriaga St., Bacolod City. DEMONSTRATIONS. Apprentice Instructors Rahil “Cyril” Indonila and Vincent Española represented Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo by giving a demonstration of the Trece Grabes Piga-Piga System. They both did largo mano and corto mano. Gan Soo Do Philippines, Inc. of Founder/Grandmaster Casimiro “Chingi” A. Grandeza, 7th Dan Soo Bahk Do (Korea), was represented by Black Dragon Martial Arts of Club Master Wenceslao Billones Jr. and Chief Instructor Windell Billones, 1st Dan Gan Soo Do/Soo Bahk Do/Taekwondo/Judo/Karate. The Billones Exhibition Team, led by CI Billones, demonstrated several hyung/poomse “forms (Hangul),” board and brick on fire kyukpa “breaking (Hangul),” ho shin sul “self defense arts (Hangul),” kasetsu waza “joint techniques (Nihonggo),” and nage waza “throwing techniques (Nihonggo)” which are all integral parts of Gan Soo Do, which is partly based on the Tang Soo Do/Soo Bahk Do of the late Grandmaster Hwang Kee. Members of the Billones Exhibition Team were Asst. instructor Winsie Jesson billones, 1st Dan, and Taekwondo gold medalists Karelyn Bantilan, Andre James Barayoga (Div. Meet), Rocheemel Galvan (Division Meet), Christie Anne Garcia (Area Meet), Jason Hicata (Area Meet), and Denise “AJ” Patigas (Div. Meet). Black Dragon Martial Arts was overall Taekwondo champion of the Division Meet last October 13, 2013 at the Rizal Elementary School Gym. Master Stephen Roy S. Dedel, Founder of Pangamot International, with the assistance of Apprentice Instructor Rahil Indonila, demonstrated knife vs knife and empty hand vs knife methods from the Dedel Pangamot System and the Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis System. Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis and Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., with the assistance of Apprentice Instructor Rahil Indonila, demonstrated self defense techniques against free and grabbed knife pointing and knife thrusts using minimal movements. Instructors Lafayette A. Diamante and Lorema “Bing” H. Tacsagon of CMAS demonstrated basic Arnis short stick defense and disarming and the basic uno and dos strikes of Original Filipino Tapado, as taught to them by 1st generation inheritor Grandmaster Benefredo “Bebing” M. Lobrido. The Tribu Hangaway Association, Inc. (THAI), an affiliate of the Ki Association International of Ernesto Talag Sensei, Muay Association of the Philippines Region 6, was represented by Arjay Flores, Christine Faye Mangubat, and Mich Rodriguez who demonstrated who demonstrated Aikido ukemi “breakfalling (Nihongg)” and goshinjutsu “self defense arts (Nihonggo)” against hold up, sexual harassment, and two attackers. Trainor Jerry de la Cruz, Reymart Espira, Kaye Rivera, and Annabel Fida meanwhile demonstrated the fighting arsenals of Muay Thai with the use of punching and kicking pads. THAI is also a member of Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. and the Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS), Inc. RESULTS: Submission Sports Philippines-Bacolod Team (SSP-BT) was overall champion with 3 wins. Xar Liera of SSP-BT forced Michael Rama of THAI to tap out at .49 via triangle choke. Mark Nimanad of SSP-BT got a superior position over Lyle Perje of THAI and got a tapout at 1.28 of the bout. Raje Fama of SSP-BT was declared winner by default. Officials were Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. of THAI (Tournament Director), Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of CMAS (Emcee/Recorder), Mohammad El Hellou Sensei (Referee), Dodgie Damo Flores of THAI (Scorer), Guro Maru L. Macalipsay of Golden Kamagong International (Guest), Christine Faye Mangubat of THAI (Invocation), and Joice Villacin of THAI (Pambansang Awit). Sponsors were New City Mall, Amar Emporium, Mario Amaca, Jimmy John Soquiña, Robert Sumalangcay, Lafayette Diamante and Lorema Tacsagon, Gally Oropil of Arashi Ryu Aikido, and Erodgie O. Sepe.

Tribu Hangaway Now @ New City Mall by James U. Sy Jr.

The Tribu Hangaway Association, Inc. (THAI) of Founder Roy R. Flores Sr. Sensei has recently transferred its location to the 3rd Floor of the New City Mall (formerly the De La Rama Center). Flores Sensei started teaching Aikido under the banner of the Tapondo International Federation Inc. (TIFI) in January 2001 at the Iron World, 3/F Benjie’s Bldg., Gatuslao St., Bacolod City. Later, the club transferred to the 2nd and then the 3rd floor of the Golden Heritage Bldg. in San Juan St. where it stayed for several years up to about the first half of 2013. It relocated to the White House along Locsin St., staying there for 2 months, before it finally settled at the New City Mall. Tribu Hangaway started out as Warrior’s Club way back in 2003, when other instructors and Flores pioneered the propagation of Wushu Sanshou in Bacolod and Negros Occidental. The name was later changed to Tribu Hangaway because there was already a group who was using the Warrior’s Club name. Flores Sensei, after he resigned his post as Negros Chief Instructor for TIFI, went independent for awhile before affiliating his group to the Ki Association International of Ernesto “Ernie” Talag Sensei, which in turn is affiliated with Yuishinkai of Maruyama Sensei. Flores Sensei holds a 6th Degree Black belt in Tapondo and is graded Master in Arnis by the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. He has been named Bacolod Coordinator by 4 times world Wushu Sanshou champion Rene Catalan, during the latter’s stint as the Region 6 Head of the Muay Association of the Philippines (MAP). Classes taught and their schedules are Aikido 6:30-8:30 PM MWF, 2:00-4:00 PM Sat. (kids only), 6:30-8:30 PM Sat. (adults); MMA is 6:30-8:30 PM TTH, 4:00-6:00 PM Sat.-Sun. Muay Thai, Jiu-jitsu, and Arnis are also taught. Interested parties may contact Roy Flores Sr. @ 0946-665-2757.

Typhoon Yolanda Pictures

The tree that was felled by Typhoon Yolanda and that blocked off Moles St., in between Tarhata and Doña Aurora Sts., in Brgy. Tangub, Bacolod City last November 8, 2013, around 1:00 PM (James U. Sy Jr./NDB Photos). Clean up by Prk. Kapawa residents shortly thereafter (James U. Sy Jr./NDB Photos). Aftermath of Typhoon Yolando at Moles St. in Brgy. Tangub, Bacolod Cityon November 9, 2013 (James U. Sy Jr./NDB Photos). Long queue at Banco de Oro (BDO)-Araneta Branch on November 9, 2013, a day after Typhoon Yolanda hit Bacolod City. At least three branches of BDO were off line at that point in time (Gonzaga, Plaza and Gaisano City (James U. Sy Jr./NDB Photos).

Free Guinabo Arnis Clinic On by James U. Sy Jr.

Grandmaster Felix Guinabo (6th from left, standing, with cap), his assistants, and participants of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) Free Arnis Clinic recently at the Manville Royale Grounds, Araneta Avenue, Pahanocoy, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo). Cyril Indonila (left) and Vincent Espanola performing Trece Grabes Piga-Piga Arnis System recently as part of the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) Free Arnis Clinic at the Manville Royale Grounds, Araneta Avenue, Pahanocoy, Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS Photo). A total of 32 teenagers enrolled in the ongoing Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) Free Arnis Clinic conducted by Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo at the Manville Royale Grounds, Araneta Avenue, Pahanocoy, Bacolod City. GM Guinabo, a Board Director of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc., offered the free clinic to increase awareness among the younger generation about the indigenous martial art and culture of the province of Negros Occidental. GM Guinabo teacher his own system, Trece Grabes Piga=Piga System, which he developed after studying under five different Arnis grandmasters. The clinic will run for 2 months with a total of 32 hours, broken down as 16 sessions, each one lasting 2 hours. Such time frame is sufficient to develop a good foundation for Arnis. The enrollees were very grateful for the opportunity because most of them are from poverty-stricken families. A pakyaw package for such a course may run from P3,000-8,000, depending on the particular instructor. GM Guinabo came up with this idea because the government has no established programs to make Arnis as part of the standard education of Filipinos. There is already a law declaring Arnis as the National Sport and Martial Art of the republic and directives to the DepEd to make it part of the school system. However, the focus has been on the sportive aspect, and largely sacrificing the cultural and martial aspects. The cultural aspect being taught in schools nowadays are primarily borrowed and synthesized from Japanese Karate, Chinese Wushu, and other Asian martial arts. It is the wish of GM Guinabo to preserve the traditional fighting arts of our forefathers.

USLS PE Students Interview Conceptual Arnis Founder

Negros martial arts researcher/historian/writer James U. Sy Jr. (center), Founder/Master of the Conceptual Arnis System, with University of St. La Salle (USLS) freshmen students (from left) Kristian Virgil Mae Paralisan, Elaine castñeda, Khatrinna Cantero, Cedric francis Claur, and Jason Bacud after an interview for the group's PE class presentation recently at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, Lacson St., Bacolod City (Kristian Paralisan photo). Five students from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) led by Kristian Virgil Mae Paralisan interviewed Negros martial arts researcher, historian, and writer James U. Sy Jr., Founder/Master of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., recently at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, Lacson St., Bacolod City as part of the requirements for their Physical Education (PE) class. Paralisan, who hails from Cebu and had previously trained in Shinshintoitsu Aikido, contacted Sy through her father, Virgilio Paralisan. The 1st year PE class was tackling individual sports and Paralisan's group was tasked to do a research on the martial arts, make an actual presentation to the class,and to submit a written report on the subject. The USLS students did a video interview about Sy's own synthesis of the martial arts, the Conceptual Arnis System, which is a composite of a number of Negros Arnis systems, Aikido, and other arts. Sy then went on to show them a number of very simple self defense sequences that they can perform in front of the class. Among those shown were defenses against wrist grabs, knife pointing, and striking attacks. By special request, Sy also showed them the pure forms of different martial arts such as Muay Thai, Aikido, and the traditional Arnis styles of Negros. Sy also lectured on the history of the indigenous fighting arts of the province and the benefits of martial arts training. Sy, also a product of USLS, is a certified Master in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) by at least 12 grandmasters, among them GM Benefredo M. Lobrido (Original Filipino Tapado), GM Wilson E. Viñas and GM Dominador D. Ferrer (Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis), and GM Estanislao T. Guarra (Guarra Style Modern Arnis). Sy holds Black Belts and/or Instructor grade in Aikido, Kimdo Taekwondo, Karate, and Pencak Silat among others. As western Visayas Correspondence, he has written a number of scholarly pieces for the Rapid Journal and hundreds of martial arts related items for the Negros Daily Bulletin and other local newspapers.

Aikido Seminar Conducted for UNO-R Crim Students by: James U. Sy Jr.

Guest Instructor James U. Sy Jr. (seated), Founder of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., 1st Dan Aikido, together with criminology students of the UNO-R Martial Arts Club (UNO-R MAC) under Defensive Tactics (DefTac) Instructor Master Ferdinand Emmanuel "Bobot" Y. Gayoles after the Introduction to Aikido Seminar last August 14, 2013 at the UNO-R Gym, University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), Lizares St., Bacolod City (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). The Introduction to Aikido Seminar was conducted by Guest Instructor James U. Sy Jr., Founder of the Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., for 14 criminology students of the UNO-R Martial Arts Club (UNO-R MAC) under Defensive Tactics (DefTac) Instructor Master Ferdinand Emmanuel "Bobot" Y. Gayoles, M.A., recently at the UNO-R Gym, University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), Lizares St., Bacolod City. Master Gayoles started handling the DefTac classes at UNO-R in 2008. Since then he has developed a simple yet effective syllabus for use by criminology students. He drew from his extensive experience in the martial arts to come up with what he calls an "idiot-proof" system geared towards law enforcement work. Gayoles is certified as a Master in four system of Negrpsanon Arnis - his family system of Yasay Sable, Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis, Oido de Caburata (Aguilar line), and Vasquez Modified Tapado - and is also 3rd Dan in WTF-style Taekwondo and a Black Belt in Karate. To give his students a broader exposure to the different fighting arts, he has invited a number of accomplished teachers to introduce their specialties to his class. The first of these teachers was Henried B. lamayo Sensei, 3rd Dan in Judo, formerly Vice President of the Atleta Judo Club and presently Founder/Chief Instructor of Seijitsu Judo Dojo. Next was Cromwill Samson Sensei of La Carlota City, 1st Dan Philippine Karate-do Federation (PKF), International Coach for the Asian Karate-do Federation (PKF), and Negros Occidental Representative for the Advocacy for the Strengthening of Karate-do (ASK) of Ramon S. Franco Kyoshi of Tacloban City, 7th Dan World Karate-do Federation (WKF). Sy Sensei, 1st Dan Aikido, previously Visayas Representative of Dangayan Singkaw Aikido Shinzui Group Philippines, Inc. of R. Jun Batobalani Shihan, 6th Dan Aikikai, was the latest instructor to be invited by Master Gayoles to teach the criminology students. Although graded as Master in several systems of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) and a Black Belt in a number of other Asian Martial Arts, Sy taught purely Aikido, just narrowing down the material to the techniques nikkyo and irimi nage, which prove very useful inlaw enforcement work. Sy started the session with a lecture on a non-aggressive approach in dealing with suspects, one more in line with Aikido's harmonious outlook. He went on to show how this is manifested in acts of courtesy and body language. The workshop was focused on using an attacker's force to throw and/or immobilize him, in preparation for handcuffing. Thus, it proved appealing to the female students in attendance. Sy demonstrated and let some students try out standard arresting, handcuffing, and transporting procedures. Sy commenced his Aikido training under Bacolod Judo and Aikido pioneer Patricio P. Prologo Sensei (1936-2010), 2nd Dan PAJA, in 1995. He went on to study with Rolando "Bong" Achas Sensei, now 3rd Dan Aikikai, in 1997 in Quezon City while training with Prime Savings Bank as a Credit investigator/Appraiser, and with Maxwell J. Maun Sensei, 1st Dan PASAI, Founder/Chief Instructor of the Bacolod Aikido Enthusiasts (BAE), in 1998. Sy also had a few sessions with Judy Ginther of the USA and upon affiliating with Batobalani Shihan, learned Aikido weapons as taught by the Japanese masters. Sy founded Ryu Aikidokan and the USLS Aikido Club with two other instructors and taught Aikido from 2000 to 2006. Among those who attended were Melvin Alianza, Mary Christian Arceo, Jendo John Bailen, Hennie Berja, Eloisa Jon Lobaton, Michael G. Militante, August Mae Sales, Micah Andrea Sibayan, Nathaniel Medina Teposo, Jessa S. Torendon, Carlos "Carl" Trunio II, and Xheistjon O. Villaluz.

Negros Martial Culture Lecture Held @ Riverside College

Seated from left: Sociology-Anthropology Instructor Gil Alfredo B. Severino and Resource Lecturer James U. Sy Jr., Founder/Master of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., together with the 2nd year Medical Laboratory Science students at the conclusion of the Negros Martial Culture Lecture last October 4, 2013 at Room H402, Hortencia Building, Riverside College, Bacolod City (Gil Alfredo B. Severino photo). Mr. Gil Alfredo B. Severino, Instructor of Sociology-Anthropology, invited James U. Sy Jr., Founder/Master of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc., to conduct the Negros Martial Culture Lecture for 29 2nd year Medical Laboratory Science students as part of their course requirements last October 4, 2013 at Room H402, Hortencia Building, Riverside College, Bacolod City. Severino believes that a local perspective on the social sciences is necessary to create awareness and ultimately appreciation of indigenous culture and history among students as well as make them feel part of it. Severino is a great grandson of Melecio Severino, the first civil governor of the province of Negros Occidental and one of the key leaders who led the revolutionaries in the historic overthrow of the Spaniards on November 5, 1898. Severino, who is a feature writer for the Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB), invited Sy, also a feature writer and columnist at NDB, to give the lecture because he is aware of his extensive literary and field research, and articles on the subject. Sy, previously Purchasing Officer at Asian Alcohol Corporation (AAC) of the Lucio Tan Group of Companies (LTGC) and formerly a banker, started the lecture by reminiscing the advocacy of the late Dr. Henry F. Funtecha (1947-2009), Director of the Center for West Visayan Studies, University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UP-V), for the locals knowing their own culture and history and ultimately writing them down themselves to have the most accurate possible perspective of the matter. Sy went on to discuss the seminal roots of Visayan martial culture as shaped by their political system, agricultural technology, commercial relations with other Asian countries, typology of weapons, and warfare culture and methods. From there, the focus shifted to the Negros Island and the various events and influences that shaped its unique martial culture. The later part of the lecture introduced students to the rich martial culture of Negros (Arnis/Eskrima/Baston) in the 20th Century, from Bacolod, Bago, Bayawan, Cadiz, Escalante, Hinigaran, Murcia, Silay, and Talisay among others. Special mention were made of Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis of Bacolod, Yasay Sable and Original Filipino Tapado of Bago, and Oido de Caburata of Murcia. The lecture ended with a Q & A where students asked more about the application of Negrosanon Arnis to present day dilemmas on the streets. With the help of the students, Sy demonstrated a few practical techniques for self protection, among them the transmutation of Arnis from the sword/stick to empty hands and everyday objects. The session ended with Severino asking his students to submit a reaction paper about the lecture in their next meeting.

Culture Nurture: The Rise of Cosplay in Negros Occidental by James U. Sy Jr.

Samantha Joy Villafuerte, 18, of Himamaylan City/Riverside College cosplaying as Saber was crowned champion of the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (Samantha Joy Villafuerte photo). Riven Villafuerte, 23, of Himamaylan City cosplaying as Zeus during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental. Villafuertes has previously been crowned champion in another cosplay competition held by Cyberzone at the Event Center, SM City Bacolod, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City and is set to compete in Manila for a Cosplay Mania (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Kent Agdana,23, of Sagay City cosplaying as Sektor during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Christine Ibañez, 15, of Domingo Lacson National High School (DLNAHS) cosplaying as Cyclops during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Christine Faith T. Aplaon, 19, of Riverside College cosplaying as Tenten during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Louelle Tiamsing of CHMSC cosplaying as Black Rock Shooter during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) columnist/writer James U. Sy Jr. with little Spider-man during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter, held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Pretty COS trippers pose for the camera during the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter, held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Cosplay grabbed the attention of Negrosanons again with the successful conduct of COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter by SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City. Cosplay (kosupure in Nihonggo), a portmanteau of the English words costume and play, is an activity where participants wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific fictional character or idea. The term was coined by Takahashi, Nobuyuki of the Japanese studio Studio Hard while attending the 1984 World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon) in Los Angeles. Over the years different cosplay competitions had been held, with the World Cosplay Summit being the most popular; the competition selects cosplayers from 20 countries to compete in the final round in Nagoya, Japan. Cosplay Mania, created and hosted by cosplay website and organization Cosplay.ph, is the biggest cosplay® event in the Philippines; it had its last event on September 29-30, 2012 at the SMX Convention Center Function Rooms 3-5, SM Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City. Bacolod and Negros Occidental are catching up with the cosplay trending as at least four Bacolod cosplay group accounts are found in Facebook. SAS Inc. presented its inaugural event last August 28, 2012 at the Terra Dolce Mall, Corner Hilado Ext., 13th St., Bacolod City. The 1st Kabankalan City Cosplay Competition was held by the House of Rising Youth, Negros Cosplay Federation, and Cosplay on the Move last January 12, 2013 at the Kabankalan City Public Plaza. Eventual champion of the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter was Samantha Joy Villafuerte, 18, of Himamaylan City, a 3rd year Medical Technology student at Riverside College, who cosplayed as Saber. It was just her second competition and she entered it together with her brother, Riven Villafuerte, 23, who portrayed Zeus and who had previously won the Regional leg of the single category of the Cyberzone Grand Prix last year at SM City Bacolod. Competitors from Bacolod, Himamaylan, Sagay, and talisay joined the event. The other cosplayers who competed were Cherry Ann Alagaban (Yuna Braska), Christine Faith T. Aplaon (Tenten), Glennie Grace G. Arostique (Neapors of War - Fairy), Uzziah Ballesteros (The Flash), Bryan Boy Capunong (Archbishop), Marvin V. Donasco (Allen Walker), Christine Ibañez (Cyclops), Stephanie Ignacio (Amy Sorel), Jessalyn Sta. Rita, and Louelle Tiamsing (Black Rock Shoder). There were also several cos trippers who were present. Since a picture says a thousand words, here are a few to best describe the event.

Samantha Villafuerte, SAS Inc. COS its all PLAY II Champion by James U. Sy Jr.

CHAMPION. Samantha Joy Villafuerte, 18, of Himamaylan City/Riverside College cosplaying as Saber, with Negros Daily Bulletin (NDB) writer James U. Sy Jr. Villafuerte was crowned champion of the COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter, held by the SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS/NDB/SAS Inc. photo). Samantha Joy Villafuerte, 18, of Himamaylan City/ Order of the Cosplay Templars cosplaying as Saber, was crowned champion in COS its all PLAY: The Second Encounter held by SAS Inc. under Manager Ritchie Vargas last August 11, 2013 at the District North Point, Ayala Mall, Talisay City, Negros Occidental. Villafuerte, a 3rd year Medical Technology student at Riverside College, entered the competition along with his brother Riven Villafuerte, 23, who portrayed Zeus and who had previously won the Regional leg of the single category of the Cyberzone Grand Prix last year at SM City Bacolod. The Villafuerte siblings were among the 13 cosplayers who participated in the SAS Inc. competition. Villafuerte, in only her second cosplay competition, looked convincing in her costume complete with breastplate armor, cape, and longsword. The other cosplayers who graced the stage at the District North Point, Ayala Mall include Cherry Ann Alagaban of LHNHS/Najagihari Cosplay Guild (Yuna Braska), Christine Faith T. Aplaon, 19, of Riverside College (Tenten), Glennie Grace G. Arostique of USLS/Najagihari Cosplay Guild ( Neapors of War - Fairy), Uzziah Ballesteros of DCGHS cosplaying as The Flash), Bryan Boy Capunong of CASAP (Archbishop), Marvin V. Donasco of Sagay City (Allen Walker), Christine Ibañez, 15, of Domingo Lacson National High School (Cyclops), Stephanie Ignacio of DCGHS (Amy Sorel), Jessalyn Sta. Rita, and Louelle Tiamsing of CHMSC (Black Rock Shoder). SAS Inc. previously held the inaugural of the competition, COS It’s All PLAY: The First Encounter, last August 28, 2012 at the Terra Dolce Mall, Corner Hilado Ext., 13th St., Bacolod City where France Adrian T. Seban, cosplaying as Aang of The Last Airbender and and Steven Vivero, cosplaying as Sesshoumaru, were the grand prize winners in the youngsters and adults categories. Donasco was entered in the competition as Death the Kid.

Hilarious & Embarrassing Filipino Names by James U. Sy Jr.

NOTE: Names appearing herewith are all real life. One word entries refer to surnames, unless obviously referring to first and second names. Historically, the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of the Philippine Islands did not have surnames, as was the case for different cultures in Europe at a certain point in time. This is why we encounter names such as Lapu-Lapu, Humabon, and Sumakwel in Philippine history classes. If two people had the same name within a barangay they were differentiated as, “(name), anak ni (name),” a similar representation exhibited in the suffix -son (i.e. “son of,” such as Johnson) in British surnames and the prefixes Mac, or later Mc, (i.e. “son of,” such as MacCormack), O' (i.e. “grandson of/descended from,” such as O'Connor), and Fitz (i.e. “son of”) in Irish surnames. Governor-General Narciso Z. Claveria issued the Renovacion del Apellido decree on November 21, 1849, which ordered the “Indios” to adopt a surname based on a list compiled by Spanish officials, the Catalogo Alfabetico de Apellidos “Alphabetical Catalogue of Surnames.” During the Spanish Era, just before the decree, some Filipinos had adopted surnames; they’re either indigenous, such as Macapagal (hi, GMA!), or the names of saints or other Catholic symbols, such as de la Cruz and San Jose. Interestingly, members of the same family did not use the same surnames. What’s more, some Filipinos changed names from time to time. This made it a living hell for the Spaniards when collecting taxes so the decree mandated that a family will have only one surname, to make taxation monitoring easy. The decree also forbade the use of religious surnames but obviously this was not strictly enforced. The Catalogo was actually a mixture of Spanish surnames (and terms from the vegetable and mineral kingdoms, geography, arts, etc.) and a sprinkling of native names and terms. The implementation of the decree was not standardized so in some islands and provinces, such as Panay, the alphabetical pages of the Catalogo were sent to individual towns, resulting to almost everyone in a particular town to have surnames beginning with the same letter. Even to this day, one can deduce, with roughly a 50-50 rate of accuracy, the roots of a person in Panay given the first letter of his surname, obviously given the exception of women who went on to marry and change their surnames. Diamante and Tortal, for instance, would have come from Dumangas and Tigbauan respectively. Majority of the inhabitants of Negros Occidental trace their ancestry to migrants from Panay and may be surprised to discover this to be true when they search for their original place of origin. So what does this history lesson got to do with hilarious and embarrassing Filipino names? One word: genesis. We will find in the Catalogo some of the earliest funny and derogatory Filipino surnames to be put on record (if I deduced it right). Among those found in the Catalogo were Agta, Baboy, Baboyan, Bogoc, Botbot, Buaya, Cahoboan, Halimaw, Kabaong, Libang, Malibangco, Otot, Tubul, Ungo, and Ung-goy. These examples would definitely elicit a chuckle to Cebuanos, Ilonggos, and Tagalogs to varying degrees. Unfortunately, it doesn’t stop there. We still find awkward names in our time, many of which have a sexual ring, making their bearers more than just embarrassed. Among the more notable surnames are Bate, Bayag (Laoag), Bayag-na (Bukidnon), Binayag, Galolo (Cebu). Labasan, Labatiti (Bauan, Batangas), Lakipuke, Macabaleg-oten, Pecpec (Ilocos Norte), Puque, P**ayne, T*rug*, and Utitco. Pecpec was the old Ilocano word for “full,” as in a basket brimming with fruit; it was the shift in the word’s meaning that give the surname its notoriety. Some surnames may look innocent enough but when combined with the first names they open the gates to endless taunting from people around the bearer. Such were the case for Bulbulito Bayagbag, Lulu Ang and Malou Ang, Gina Jaculo, Anabelle Lat, and Lucky T. Tinio. The list can be extended further with the following: Bagonggahasa (Paete, Laguna), Dimagahasa (Boac), Dimalanta, Dimapasoc, Dimaregla, Norma Hinalay, Lanta, Loshang, Dina Macuja, Lolita Magtanan, Agnes Masikip, Panti, Pokpok, Ray Pinoco, and Sariwa. It should be noted here that Bagonggahasa refers “to something newly sharpened,” with the root word being hasa “sharpen,” but often misread as gahasa “rape.” But inspite of this semantic explanation, Ligaya Bagonggahasa and Virginia Bagonggahasa do not fail to elicit smiles. Some may be grossed out with names having a smell such as Anne Bajo, Bakekang, Inodoro Casillas Jr., Dina Lego, Libag, Annabelle Otot, and May Regla. Still other Filipino names can embarrass in a different way: Jose Bangag, Lani Bayot, Mario Bayot, Bogtae (Bacolod City), Richie Bab Boyboy, Calvo, Galit, Kulubot, Maitim, Nasilawan, Oliver Orongsolong, Pagsisihan, Ely Pante, Pinadamutan, Sipsip, Tagapulot, Talong, Tanga, and Ubaldo Punongbayan. Things have changed through the years though, even the names themselves. Eustaquio for example named his son Eustaquio Jr. , who in turn named his own son, Stacy. Patricio Bucog went to the USA and when he returned to the Philippines he was already Pat Bone. Hilarious names are a great challenge to the children who own them. Classmates are fast to tease, call names, and the like. Consider Rommel Kennedy Polotan. Every time their teacher called out “Polotan” during a roll call his classmates would always shout “Beer! Beer!” Or in the case of Miss America, Miss Africa, and Miss Austria, all classmates in the same class, where during roll calls, their classmates would clap their hands and after their names had been called out in succession, the whole class would sing We Are the World. Some other Filipino names ring a “memory recall” bell, but minus the embarrassment that goes with the other previously discussed names. Consider these: Mary Christmas Aguinaldo, Benny Bilang, Cagandahan, Caguapuhan, Christmas Joy (born on Christmas day), Halloweena Coffin (Filipina born on All Saints Day in the Philippines and married to an American), Happy Joy Joy De La Cruz, Sanctus Espiritu, De Mayo Flores, Chica Go, Philip P. Ines, Sixto Pepito Jualo, Kim Arthur, Rich Pobre, Honeygirl Pulot-Pukyutan, Halina Tayo, and Spaghetti 88. Filipino celebrities have their own place in the country’s harvest of hilarious names, mostly because Filipino comedians chose screen names that sound funny. Babalo, Palito, Pokwang, and Pooh are just some that come to mind. Those old enough during the Bomba era of the Marcos regime would remember stars such as Coca Nicolas, Pepsi Paloma, and Sarsi Emmanuelle, all adopting names of popular brand of softdrink in the 1970’s/1980’s, perhaps to quench the thirst of their fans. Papa Lito is a DJ at Campus Radio in Bacolod City. Samson Samson, a gay, joined the Pilipinas Got Talent Season 4 auditions and adopted the screen name Delilah, as a member of the Fiesta Broadway on March 3, 2013. Actor Cesar Montano is Cesar Manhilot in real life. Actress Lovely Rivero’s real name is Ginebra Miguela Macalinao. Cheers to everyone who got that clear. Of course, Filipino celebrity-inspired names are now the in-thing: Jean Claude Andam, Genghis Chan, Jackie Chan (once went to University of St. La Salle), Magic Chiongson, Edgar Allan Pe (ADMU alumni), Edgar Allan Pomar (Bacolod City, Negros Occidental), Fernando Pon Jr., and Jonathan Livingston Sy (ADMU alumni). So what does this review of hilarious and embarrassing Filipino names teach us? The would-be parents should have the prudence and common sense to choose a name that will not bring ridicule to their child, a name that they could live up to and not one that they will hate for the rest of their lives. Sensible parenthood also means not punishing kids with kilometric names, otherwise he/she would have just finished writing his/her name and the class is already handing in their test papers. I’m just lucky to have a short name that is not funny or hilarious.

9th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors Held in Pta. Taytay Part I by James U. Sy Jr.

The 9th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors was successfully held by the Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) of Founder/Grandmaster Romeo Postrano and Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo in cooperation with Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder/President Emeritus Atty. Col. Grandmaster Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao T. Guarra with the sponsorship of the Barangay Pta. Tay Council and Brgy. Pta. Taytay Sangguniang Kabatann (SK) recently at the brgy. Pta. Taytay Gymnasium, Bacolod City as part of the villag'es annual fiest celebration (Feast of St. John the Baptist). The event featured a total of 6 demonstrations and 6 matches using Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial arts Schools (IFFMAS), Inc. rules. DEMONSTRATIONS. Founder/Grandmaster Romeo Postrano and members of the Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) demonstrated various Arnis blocking, striking, disarming, and anyo with elements traceable to the teachings of Grandmasters Hortencio Navales and Teotimo Buenaflor. Founder/Master Roy R. Flores Sr. and Instructor Matthew Slade Cabiles of Tribu Hangaway Philippines (THP) demonstrated doble baston, pangamut contra daga and baston, and hold up defense. Jason Clyde Guarra Poral, grandson of President/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao T. Guarra, represented Guarra Style Modern Arnis with a solo nunchaku form. Host Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) demonstrated solo baston largo mano, doble baston, espada y daga, knife, andf and pangamut.The demo team was composed of Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, Master Joselito O. Guzon, Christian Decena, Vincent Española, Janber Guinabo, Rene Cyril Indonila, and Jerwin Palma. Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. with the assistance of Master Joselito Guzon of GACS demonstrated knife and gun disarms, punch defense, and seated defense. Founder Remer Decripito, Chief Instructor of the Siete Pares Arnis Club, performed a solo anyo.

10th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors a Success Part I by James U. Sy Jr.

The 10th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors was successfully held by the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo in cooperation with Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall represented by Advertising OIC Vergil Pama Sausi, Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder/Grandmaster Atty. Col. Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao T. Guarra, and Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) Inc. under President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo last July 27, 2013 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall, Araneta St., Bacolod City. DEMONSTRATIONS. Grandmaster Romeo Postrano led members of his Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) in demonstrating their interpretation of anyo and street self defense using methods desce3nded from Grandmasters Hortencio Navales and Teotimo Buenaflor. Rev. Gaudencio Lingamen Jr., Founder of Garrote y Lanza and the representative of the Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Assn. (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. for San Enrique, demonstrated solo forms for talibung (28” long, 525 gms.), sosetsukon dos palos (40” long, 500 gms.), and talibung y dos palos. Masters Stephen Roy and Stephen Rey S. Dedel, Founders of Pangamut International (PI), an affiliate of Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis Aficionados, demonstrated sequences for the knife as well as defenses against it. The Ramon Torres National High School Arnis Team under by Coaches Brian P. Martir and Roel B. Pineda and Trainors Wilson and Randy A. Alvarado was represented by Christian Reyes, 2011 (Capiz) Regional Meet labanan champion and solo anyo bronze medalist, with a DepEd likha anyo (creative form). Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. performed a live blade anyo and with the assistance of Senior instructor Noel Emmanuel Arendon of GACS, demonstrated knife and gun disarms, punch defense, and chair vs stick. Host Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) demonstrated kids’ solo baston, doble baston, and pangamut by Janber Guinabo and Jerwin Palma, solo espada y daga by Rene Cyril Endonila, knife flow drill by Endonila and Vincent Española, espada y daga by Janber Guinabo and Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, and disarming and locking by GM Guinabo and Christian Decena.

Juan de la Cruz: What Made It the Current Rage on Philippine TV and a Huge Success, A Review by James U. Sy Jr.

Since its premiere on ABS-CBN and on TFC on February 4, 2013, Dreamscape’s Juan dela Cruz has become a sensational hit among Filipino televiewers. So successful was the teleserye that its cast embarked on a multiple-city tour nationwide starting in about the second quarter of 2013 with the masses welcoming them with relentless cheers and admiration. The only other teleserye I can remember that had this kind of multiple-city tour and intensity of welcome may well be GMA’s historically-researched epic Amaya, which starred Marian Rivera. What’s more Juan de la Cruz has spawned a prequel, My Little Juan, which is shown earlier in the afternoon, and gave rise to novelty items such as JDC DVDs, soundtracks, and Tagabantay toy swords as well as public-reminder type informmercials by Nescafe where Juan de la Cruz lead star Coco Martin gives the message to the televiewers, and civic events where the cast go to schools and give out items to indigent students. If I’m not mistaken and if my memory serves me right, this kind of reception and widespread publicity/promotion for a teleserye is unprecedented in the history of Philippine TV. This is why I am taking this opportunity to write a commentary about this epic masterpiece by Director Malu Sevilla. So what makes Juan de la Cruz tick? I believe it is because it touches the very essence of being a Filipino. We are all aware that Filipinos are well-attuned to their emotions; that’s the reason why soap operas, be they Filipino, Korean, or Mexican, click with Filipino televiewers. However, Juan de la Cruz is not in the usual mold of face slapping and crying buckets of tears most often associated with Philippine soap operas. If we look back, GMA’s Amaya was a huge success because it was a perspective outside the box and its research team presented to the public a cultural base of the Philippine Islands and the Filipino people, before unknown to many of the new generation, except for the learned strata of society; it made Filipinos proud to be Filipino, just as when Manny Pacquiao wins a match. The same formula has been applied to Juan de la Cruz, albeit in a less than obvious manner. Let me expound on this. Some have asserted that Filipinos are culturally confused. They don’t know if they are Malay, Chinese, Spanish, American, or some other race. Others have pointed out that Filipinos have a colonial mentality, thinking that anything foreign is better. This phenomenon is easily explained by the fact that the Filipino race is a fusion of different races that have inhabited and invaded the Philippine Islands through the centuries, and by extension, their distinct cultures and histories, things that ultimately define an ethnic group. Since the cultures that comprise the Filipino race are so diverse, it is very hard to define and describe the Filipino psyche in a few, simplified generalized pronouncements, as there will always be exceptions. But then it is this diversity that makes the Filipino race unique in itself. As an amalgation of different cultures, the Filipino race through the centuries has evolved its own distinct culture, with regional variations, that despite having been descended from different cultures has over time evolved into something uniquely Filipino. The Philippines is the third largest English speaking nation in the world and the only in Asia that speaks both English and Spanish (Zaide 20). It is the only Catholic nation in Asia (Zaide 24). Dr. Sonia M. Zaide wrote, “Our history is indeed unique for the variety, the intensity and the duration of our historical, cultural and scientific relations with other nations” (Zaide 3). So what do these anthropological facts have to do with Juan de la Cruz? A lot actually. Juan de la Cruz represents what a Filipino is, a character the televiewers can relate to and proud to embody the Filipino psyche. Let me elaborate on this by first giving you a historical background on the name Juan de la Cruz. Juan de la Cruz, the symbolic name for the Filipinos, was not actually coined by a Filipino, but by a Scottish born journalist, R. R. McCulloch Dick, who was working for the Manila Times in the early 1900’s. He discovered that it was the most popular name in police blotters and court dockets in and around the city (Barrameda “Inquirer Trivia: Juan de la Cruz”). Juan de la Cruz has highlighted several positive Filipino values which televiewers may remember being ingrained into them by their parents and elders. The typical close knit Filipino family ties is exemplified in Juan de la Cruz where Juan always strived for the good of his family and worked hard to protect them from harm. This is further highlighted when Amelia (Mylene Dizon), Juan’s mother, had to go to hiding to protect her then unborn son; when Juan got to know his lolo Julian “Jules” dela Cruz (Eddie Garcia) and when he started longing for his father; when Rosario Galang (Erich Gonzales) had to give up her love for Juan after he killed her father Mang Pepe (Joel Torre); and when Samuel Alejandro (Albert Martinez), Juan’s father, started sacrificing his duties as Haring Aswang for his son. Clearly, these manifestations of the close knit family ties is often seen in Filipino families, which is in direct contrast to American culture where children have more informal relationship with their parents. Loyalty to friends is simply the extension to the close knit Filipino family ties, as friends and teammates work together to battle evil. After Juan de la Cruz got support via the media, the Filipino spirit of bayanihan has been shown as average people reach out to help Juan and the Kapatiran. The teleserye had also shown manifestations of respect, not only to elders but to one’s fellow man as well, which is very Filipino. Being a Catholic nation, Filipino televiewers can easily relate to the teachings given by Fr. Ramoncito “Cito” Gonzales (Jaime Fabregas) and the other elders to Juan. Being good to one’s fellowmen, and to control one’s anger are just some of the Christian values that Filipinos would be familiar with. The Bakal na Krus itself is symbolic of righteousness the continuing struggle between good and evil in this world. Juan, depicted in several scenes praying to “Bossing,” exemplify the deeply religious nature of Filipinos, full of faith to the almighty. The numerous setbacks experienced by Juan along the way helped him grow from an orphan boy hated by the townsfolk for his innocent shortcomings into a more matured and responsible person idolized by many, especially the younger ones. It exemplifies the resiliency of the Filipinos, their struggle of being strong in the face of adversity, hardship, and sufferings and to come on top of a difficult situation. Certain aspects of Filipino courtship and romance have been provided by Juan and Rosario, who also gave life to the usual quarrels between Filipino lovers. Prinsesa Mirathea (Shaina Magdayao) symbolizes the silent admirer but who would not do anything to harm her friends’ relationship. Bagno (Martin del Rosario) represents the Filipino guy who will fight for his love. While not expressly mentioned, Arnis/Eskrima had been featured in Juan de la Cruz through the trainings and fight scenes depicted in some episodes involving swords, sticks, and knives. Warriorship has always been part of the Filipino people, even before the Spaniards set foot in the islands. The four weapons of the Bakal na Krus symbolizes some of the more important values of a Filipino warrior. Katapangan and kagitingan are without a doubt the primary traits of the Filipino warrior as he fought against different kinds of invaders through the centuries. Kataraungan, a word borrowed by the Tagalog language from the Cebuano word tarung, represents the warrior’s ethics of only using his weapon and skills in defense and as a last resort and not in unnecessary killing. This was best exemplified when Tonton (Zaijan Jaranilla) told Juan that his job was killing aswangs; Juan replied, “Ang misyon ko ay hindi para pumatay ng aswang, kundi para protektahan ang mga tao laban sa mga aswang.” Of the four weapons of the Bakal na Krus, the espada and the sibat best represent warriorship in pre-Hispanic Visayas. Prof. William henry Scott wrote that Visayans were experts with the bangkaw. In certain scenes of Juan de la Cruz, Coco Martin wields the espada like a kampilan, a standard weapon in early Visayas. A more obvious attention-getting feature of the teleserye is its portrayal of supernatural beings immortalized in Filipino folklore such as the aswangs, diwata, and tikbalang. While there are variations in the teleserye’s depictions of these characters from the traditional descriptions, such as the appearance and some qualities of the aswangs, the production did a good job in putting life into these depictions, such as the aversion of aswangs to bawang and the use of buntot pagi against them. Ultimately, Juan de la Cruz symbolizes the Filipino people, their values, their thoughts, and their culture. This is the reason why it is a huge success. Every Filipino who watch the series see something in him/her that is in Juan de la Cruz. This is one work worth congratulating ABS-CBN nad Dreamscape. 9th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors Held in Pta. Taytay Part I by James U. Sy Jr. DEMONSTRATIONS. Founder/Grandmaster Romeo Postrano and members of the Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) demonstrated various Arnis blocking, striking, disarming, and anyo with elements traceable to the teachings of Grandmasters Hortencio Navales and Teotimo Buenaflor. Jason Clyde Guarra Poral, grandson of President/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao T. Guarra, represented Guarra Style Modern Arnis with a solo nunchaku form. Founder/Master Roy R. Flores and Instructor Matthew Slade Cabiles of Tribu Hangaway Philippines gave a demonstration of various defenses against hold up situations. Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. with the assistance of Master Joselito Guzon of GACS demonstrated knife and gun disarms, punch defense, and seated defense. Founder Remer Decripito, Chief Instructor of the Siete Pares Arnis Club, performed a solo anyo. Host Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) demonstrated kids’ solo baston, doble baston, and pangamut by Janber Guinabo and Jerwin Palma, solo espada y daga by Rene Cyril Endonila, knife flow drill by Endonila and Vincent Española, espada y daga by Janber Guinabo and Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, and disarming and locking by GM Guinabo and Christian Decena. 10th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors a Success Part I by James U. Sy Jr. The 10th Bakbakan of Eskrimadors was successfully held by the Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) of Founder/Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo in cooperation with Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. of Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr., Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall represented by Advertising OIC Vergil Pama Sausi, Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc. of Founder/Grandmaster Atty. Col. Marcelo C. Jalandoon, Ph.D., and President/Grandmaster P/Sgt. (Ret.) Estanislao T. Guarra, and Intercontinental Federation of Filipino Martial Arts Schools (IFFMAS) Inc. under President Grandmaster Elmer V. Montoyo last July 27, 2013 at the Atrium Area, Gaisano Grand Bacolod Mall, Araneta St., Bacolod City. DEMONSTRATIONS. Grandmaster Romeo Postrano led members of his Mandatus Arnis Sikaran Kali (MASK) in demonstrating their interpretation of anyo and street self defense using methods desce3nded from Grandmasters Hortencio Navales and Teotimo Buenaflor. Rev. Gaudencio Lingamen Jr., Founder of Garrote y Lanza and the representative of the Philippine Integrated Martial Arts Academy-Filipino Tang Soo Do Assn. (PIMAA-FTSDA), Inc. for San Enrique, demonstrated solo forms for talibung (28” long, 525 gms.), sosetsukon dos palos (40” long, 500 gms.), and talibung y dos palos. Masters Stephen Roy and Stephen Rey S. Dedel, Founders of Pangamut International (PI), an affiliate of Lapu-Lapu Viñas Arnis Aficionados, demonstrated sequences for the knife as well as defenses against it. The Ramon Torres National High School Arnis Team under by Coaches Brian P. Martir and Roel B. Pineda and Trainors Wilson and Randy A. Alvarado was represented by Christian Reyes, 2011 (Capiz) Regional Meet labanan champion and solo anyo bronze medalist, with a DepEd likha anyo (creative form). Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Martial Arts Society (CMAS), Inc. performed a live blade anyo and with the assistance of Senior instructor Noel Emmanuel Arendon of GACS, demonstrated knife and gun disarms, punch defense, and chair vs stick. Host Guinabo Arnis and Combat Sports (GACS) demonstrated kids’ solo baston, doble baston, and pangamut by Janber Guinabo and Jerwin Palma, solo espada y daga by Rene Cyril Endonila, knife flow drill by Endonila and Vincent Española, espada y daga by Janber Guinabo and Grandmaster Felix A. Guinabo, and disarming and locking by GM Guinabo and Christian Decena.

Brgy. Malingin Tanods Complete Disarming/Arresting Course by James U. Sy Jr.

Featured instructors, barangay officials, and Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSO) pose for posterity at the conclusion of the 2-day Brgy. Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" last July 13, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall/Gym, Bago City. Seated from left: Grandmaster Angie Terante (Oido de Caburata), P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra (Guarra Style Modern Arnis/Negros Occidental Baston Federation Inc.), Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra (Oido de Caburata), Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. (Conceptual Arnis/Martial Arts System), and Hon. Kagawad Master Jose Dennis Guarra (Arjuka) (CMAS photo). Grandmaster Isaac “Saac” T. Guarra (right), Founder of Arjuka, teaching disarming techniques with the assistance of Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis/Martial Arts System, during the Brgy. Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" last July 13, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall/Gym, Bago City. (CMAS photo). Handcuffing procedure from the prone position as taught by Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis/Martial Arts System, and performed by Barangay Public Safety Officer (BPSO) and former Marines Francisco Belleza (arresting officer) with the assistance of BPSO Jury T. Gimeno (suspect) during the Brgy. Malingin Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" under the auspices of the Barangay Council headed by Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra last July 13, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Gym, Bago City (CMAS photo). ARRESTING WITHOUT HANDCUFFS (from Lpu-Lapu Viñas Arnis) as taught by Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis/Martial Arts System, and performed by Barangay Public Safety Officer (BPSO) Enrico Cabiles (arresting officer) with the assistance of Adelino R. Escanlar Jr. (suspect) during the Brgy. Malingin Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" under the auspices of the Barangay Council headed by Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra last July 13, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Gym, Bago City (CMAS photo). A total of 15 Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSO) participated in and completed the 2-day Skills Enhancement Training “Disarming and Arresting Methods” held by the Brgy. Malingin Council headed by Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra last July 6 and 13, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall, Bago City. Students also joined the training, which was taught by 6 grandmasters and masters of the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) of Arnis/Eskrima. P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Founder of Guarra Style Modern Arnis and President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc., lectured on basic personnel field formation and drilling, courtesy and discipline, and maximum tolerance and use of justifiable force under the law. Grandmaster Isaac “Saac” T. Guarra, Founder of Arjuka and Board Director of NOBF, with the assistance of Grandmaster Felipe "Eping" Hernal and Hon. Kagawad Master Jose Dennis Guarra, taught the 5 basic strikes and their corresponding disarming technique for each, both with sticks and empty handed, using “shocking” techniques. Grandmaster Angie Terante, a student of Grandmasters Abraham and Sabas Gubaton, taught the basic paguwa (going outside) of Oido de Caburata) as a defensive maneuver against stick and blade attacks. He also demonstrated several other strikes from the art. Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis (Martial Arts) System and Sec. Gen. of NOBF, taught paniil (footwork), blade awareness, empty handed knife defense using the open T block and the inside and outside wrist locks and their corresponding takedowns, stick vs knife with hands on sparring, handcuffing procedures and methods, and together with GM Eslao Guarra, leverage-based pain-compliance non-lethal arresting without handcuffs. Barangay officials who were in attendance during the training include Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra, Hon. Kagawad Jose Dennis Guarra, Hon. Kagawad Rosendo G. Tabol, and Hon. Prk. Capayas Chairman Benjamin de la Cruz. BPSO who attended the training were former Marines Francisco A. Belleza Jr., Enrico Cabiles, Ronnie F. Catahay, Remy T. de la Cruz, Adelino R. Escanlar Jr., Jorge M. Fermiza, Jury T. Gimeno, Joel Grullo, Lucito Guarra, Andresito Lanerez, Carlito Magbanua, Areston Ostan, Richard I. Pufano, Arturo O. Rico Jr., and Baltazar B. Valenzuelo. Students from different schools joined the training were Jason Galas, Geraldine Guarra, Jason Clyde Poral, and Windy Lou Poral. Jury T. Gimeno and Francisco A. Belleza Jr. were chosen “Best Performing Tanods” of the seminar. The award was given them based on their absorption of the material and their hand ons performances, especially during the handcuffing procedure.

Brgy. Malingin Tanods Train in Filipino M.A. by James U. Sy Jr.

Featured instructors, barangay officials, and Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSO) pose for posterity at the conclusion of the first day of the Malingin Brgy. Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" last July 6, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall, Bago City. Seated from left: Grandmaster Angie Terante (Oido de Caburata), Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra (Oido de Caburata), P/Sgt. (Ret.) Founder/Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra (Guarra Style Modern Arnis/Negros Occidental Baston Federation Inc.), Founder/Master James U. Sy Jr. (Conceptual Arnis/Martial Arts System), and Hon. Kagawad Master Jose Dennis Guarra (Arjuka) (James U. sy Jr./CMAS photo). Grandmaster Isaac T. Guarra (right), Founder of Arjukja, and Grandmaster Felipe "Eping" Hernal demonstrating the 5 basic strike of the system and their corresponding disarms during the Malingin Brgy. Tanod Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" last July 6, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall, Bago City (James U. sy Jr./CMAS photo). The Brgy. Malingin Council headed by Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra organized a 2-day Skills Enhancement Training "Disarming and Arresting Methods" for its 20-man strong Barangay Public Safety Officers (BPSO). The first session was held last July 6, 2013 at the Brgy. Malingin Hall, Bago City. The next session is scheduled this coming July 13, 2013 at the same venue. Featured instructors were P/Sgt. (Ret.) Grandmaster Estanislao “Eslao” T. Guarra, Founder of Guarra Style Modern Arnis and President of the Negros Occidental Baston Federation (NOBF), Inc.; Grandmaster Isaac “Saac” T. Guarra, Founder of Arjuka and Board Director of NOBF, and Grandmaster Felipe "Eping" Hernal; and Master James U. Sy Jr., Founder of Conceptual Arnis System (Conceptual Martial Arts System) and Sec. Gen. of NOBF. 15 of the 20 barangay tanods attended the first session, along with 4 students from different schools in Bago. GM Eslao Guarra started off the first session with a review of basic personnel drilling on the field. He then continued with a lecture on courtesy and discipline. The remaider of the course is hinged upon these values as tanods have to give respect to all their suspects and the necessary discipline to use only justifiable force under the law. GM Isaac Guarra and GM Hernal introduced the tanods to the 5 basic strikes of the Arjuka style and then proceeded to instruct them on the corresponding disarming technique for each, both with sticks and empty handed. Master Sy taught knife defense using the Conceptual Arnis open T Block for the empty handed method and the baston for thee armed variant. Locks taught for the empty handed method include the inside and outside wrist locks.Master Sy taught paniil first as a foundation for these defenses. GM Eslao Guarra and Master Sy, at the ending of the first session, demonstrated several come along methods which are best suited for the job of barangay tanods. The methods shown afford the user maximum leverage and pain for compliance, minimal use of force, and non-lethal making them ideal for law enforcement. Barangay officials who were present to support the event include Hon. Kagawad Jose dennis Guarra, Hon. Kagawad Rosendo G. Tabol, Hon. Prk. Capayas Chairman Benjamin de la Cruz, and Grandmaster Angie Terante. GM Eslao Guarra, once named Most Outstanding Policeman of Negros Occidental, is a reserve officer of the AFP. Has studied under 20 professors of Arnis and has more than 6 decades of experience.In his younger days he has engaged in unpadded full contact challenge matches and has taught more than 10,000 policemen, barangay tanods, security guards, and civilians during his career as a professor of arnis. GM Isaac, like his brother GM Eslao, started his martial arts with their father, Grandmaster Cornelio "Kune" Guarra with the Herada Redoble style. From there he has developed his own art, arjuka, which is a synthesis of Arnis, Judo, and Karate. GM Hernal and Master dennis Guarra learned from GM Isaac. Master Sy learned Arnis from several professors, among them Grandmasters Viñas, Aguilar, A. and S. Gubaton, Lobrido, Montoyo, and E. and I. Guarra, and Master Gayoles. He synthesized and integrated all his learning into the Conceptual Arnis system and has since then taught it to policemen, brgy. tanods, security guards, doctors and nurses, students and teachers, etc. Grandmaster Angie Terante and Hon. Brgy. Captain Grandmaster Michael Jude T. Guarra are both students of the famed Gubaton brothers, Grandmasters Abraham and Sabas, both of whom can trace their lineage directly to the Founder of Oido de Caburata, grandmaster Antonio "Toñing" Tolosa of Murcia.

Revisiting the Negros Farmer Weekend Market by James U. Sy Jr.

Pastry Chef Julio La Fuente of Bolivia showing off his very own special creation, the Roselle Bread at the Quite Place booth at Zone 3 of the Negros Farmers Weekend Market, Magsaysay Avenue (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). Mrs. Ruby C. Cruz (seated left), the Marketing Director of DC. Cruz Trading Corporation, with Darlene Casiano, Maricar Dabao, Bambi Borromeo, and Ronnie Guance at Zone 3 of the Negros Farmers Weekend Market, Magsaysay Avenue (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). Thelma Z. Watanabe (right(, the wife of Watanabe, Shigeru and the Overall Training Coordinator of Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA)-Bago Training Center, with NDB writer James U. Sy Jr. at the OISCA booth at Zone 3 of the Negros Farmers Weekend Market, Magsaysay Avenue (CMAS photo). Growbio Natural Systems owned by Mary Aidine Galvanat Zone 5 of the Negros Farmers Weekend Market, Magsaysay Avenue (James U. Sy Jr./CMAS photo). It's been a little more than two months since I last wrote about the Negros Farmers Weekend Market. For those who are not familiar with it, the Negros Farmer Weekend Market is a 1.2-hectare market community located along Magsaysay Avenue, just across DC. Cruz Trading Corporation, where farmers from different parts of Negros display their fresh produce at very reasonable prices every Saturday 8"00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. The Negros Farmer Weekend Market was opened to the public on March 16, 2013 and serves as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project of the DC. Cruz Trading Corporation, with its beneficiary being the family’s foundation, Herbe Foundation, which has the mission of providing education to indigent children with deep focus on character formation. The Negros Farmer Weekend Market offers its buyers a number of perks, primary of which is lower prices of goods as compared to those charged in the average market. Under normal circumstances, farmers sell their fresh produce to middlemen who then transport them to Bacolod, the capital of the province, where sellers/vendors buy from them. Sometimes there are additional middlemen in between. Naturally, the layers of channels involved will ultimately affect pricing since each channel would have to have a margin to maintain their operations. This is where the Negros Farmer Weekend Market is unique from most markets. Vendors within its premises are the farmers themselves, thereby eliminating middlemen, which in turn places its prices to a lower level. The Negros Farmer Weekend Market is composed of five zones. Nearer to the entrance (to the right side) is Zone 5, the area where farmers sell their fresh produce, both organic and natural. The last two times I went to Zone 5, I bought some soya milk, tofu, and carabao cheese from Growbio Natural Systems, which is owned by Mary Aidine Galvan. Still in Zone 5, you can find organic red and black rice, calamansi, different vegetables, fruits, fresh milk, and interestingly, some rabbits. From Zine 5 I normally go straight up north to Zone 3, the Food Area, where one can spoil one's palate with a mouth watering choice of international cuisine: Filipino, Spanish, Bolivian, Japanese, Indian. Zone 3 is an open-air dining area where visitors can enjoy a cup of coffee while making chika with friends and/or other visitors or simply to savor the food prepared by the different restuarers. One can also order bangus, tilapia, and/or other seafood to be grilled, ala Pala-Pala style. During one of my visits, businessman Ong Chuk-Kuan was also there and I learned he's a good friend of Mrs. Ruby C. Cruz, the Marketing Director of DC. Cruz Trading Corporation. I wouldn't wonder if Chuk was there because the place gives one an aura of peace, the feeling of being one with nature. Mrs. Cruz treated us both to lunch. My first time to try Bolivian food. I met Julio La Fuente, a handsome pastry chef from Bolivia who was so intrigued by the Philippines that he traveled here, staying at the Quite Place. La Fuente's specialty is Roselle Bread, his very own creation. La Fuente will be in Bacolod till August 2013. Farther west of Zone 3 I also met Mr. Edmon Ereñeta who was selling Chorizo Negrense, which is made from all natural ingredients. As it turned out he was related to a classmate of mine in La Salle before. During that visit I also noticed there were a number of Japanese visitors, apparently they attended the O-mochi making demo, the ceremony of which is formally called mochitsuki in Nihonggo, that morning. O-mochi are traditional Japanese sticky rice cakes made by literally "pounding the life out of" steamed glutinous rice into a paste and molded into different shapes. Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement (OISCA)-Negros and the Filipino-Japanese community of Bacolod organized the demo. Mrs. Cruz introduced me to Mrs. Thelma Z. Watanabe, the wife of Watanabe, Shigeru and the Overall Training Coordinator of OISCA-Bago Training Center. OISCA was founded by Rev. Nakano, Yonosuke in 1961; OISCA Philippines was established in 1963 and now has 19 branches with seven rural development and youth training projects in Mindanao, Negros, Palawan, Mindoro, and Luzon. The group's main trust is agriculture although they also conduct staff training for cooking, flower arrangement, and other cultural skills. OISCA also had their booth in Zone 3 where they sell Japanese food. The last of the food booths was the one which offered Spanish cuisine. They got lots of paella. And while I'm writing this piece, I've just got word that there are three more new food locators at Zone 3. Maricar Dabao, Bambi Borromeo, Darlene Casiano, and Ronnie Guance were also there to enjoy the food and later met up with Mrs. cryz. And for those who have something to share about art, culture, health, environment, and the like, the Negros farmers weekend Market has a pavilion dedicated to public education where anyone can talk about important issues such as health, environment and agriculture. Lectures on Saturdays are free to both speaker and the public, and the hall can accommodate 70-100 people. The other parts of the Negros Farmer Weekend Market are Zone 1, where you can find vegetable demo plots, bonsai exhibit, ornamental bamboo, greenhouse, and solar pump display; Zone 2 where one can find vegetable inputs, seeds, and massage/spa; and Zone 4 where one can find fresh processed meat, arts and crafts, ornamental plants, silk products, processed foods, and native baskets.