2013

FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTS – TYPHOON YOLANDA (HAIYAN) RELIEF SEMINAR. Saturday, 14 December 2013. Nashville, TN, USA

November 13, 2013 by MO1

FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTIST TYPHOON YOLANDA (HAIYAN) RELIEF SEMINAR. Saturday, 14 December 2013. Nashville, TN, USA

Over the course of the last month, the Philippines has been rocked by a series of natural disasters. First was the 7.2 magnitude earthquake that destroyed homes, many historical churches, and buildings on the islands of Cebu and Bohol. And the most recent, super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), cut a path of destruction through our island nation and other parts of Southeast Asia. Yolanda (Haiyan) has been declared the most powerful typhoon to make landfall in recorded history. The US Navy Joint Typhoon Warning Center stated that at its height, the storm produced sustained winds around 319kph (198mph) with gusts topping out at 379kph (235mph). The final details of fatalities, injuries, and property damage are yet unknown as many areas were left without power and are out of communication with emergency management services. This is a public event open to anyone wishing to learn the foundational concepts and principles of the Filipino Martial Arts. Guro David Gould of Lameco Eskrima, Guro Viko Perrine, and Guro Jerome Teague will be taking participants through some of the fundamentals of their respective systems including: sword, stick, knife, empty, hands, and weapon disarming. This will be an amazing gathering and will benefit a worthy cause. To register, please contact Guro Jerome Teague at (615) 319-3992. Cost is $40 with ALL proceeds going to the Philippine Red Cross. We will also be taking donations of clothing and other essential items. More Info at: https://www.facebook.com/events/169367563261944/ … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

MANONUDA For The Philippines Typhoon Victims – “Hubud Session”, Brussels, Belgium

November 12, 2013 by MO1

Join our semianr in aid to the Philippines. All the profit will be donated here: http://www.1212.be/fr/haiyanfr/actualites-haiyan/item/5358-encourageant … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Filipino Martial Arts Fund Raising Event in favour of the Philippines Typhoon Victims, Brussels, Belgium. December 15th, 2013.

November 12, 2013 by MO1

South East Asian Martial Arts Martial Arts Research Systems Belgium - Fund Raising Event in favour of the Philippines Typhoon Victims, Brussels, Belgium. December 15th, 2013. We are all doing Filipino Martial Arts and thus are directly connected to the Filippins. I am setting up an event to support the victime of the Hayian Typhon that causes huge damage in the Filipins recently. I would ask all of my Martial Arts friends to relay the information of the event. The goal of the event is to raise a maximum of funds, During the event your will have the opportunity to train Filipino Martial arts technique and see some demontration. The event is open to all, practicioner as non martial arts practicioner. To be able to join this event, it will be requested that the particpants to give a donation of 15€ minimum directly to the NGO "Action Against Hunger" & "Philippine Red Cross" or any other NGO actively involved in helping the Filipinos victimes. The reason we have choosen "Action Against Hunger" & "Philippine Red Cross" as main NGO, we know from friends who are currently linving in the Philipines that those NGO's are active all the year long doing concret actions. All donations given to any other NGO's are of course welcome. Minimum participation is fixed at 15€ To register send your details and a copy of the proove of payment at info@seama.eu The proof of payement will be the ticket entrance. Minimum participation is fixed at 15€ for a 3hours event. Web Site : Philippine Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org.ph/donate Action Against Hunger: http://www.actionagainsthunger.org/take-action/donate Many thanks for your involvment https://www.facebook.com/events/185510098307114/ http://www.seama.eu/a … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Filipino Martial Artists Join with other Martial Arts Groups for a Typhoon Haiyan Relief Seminar.

November 11, 2013 by MO1

A "Foundations" Seminar -a multi disciplinary day of learning martial arts such as BJJ, Balintawak, Modern Arnis, Aikido, and other arts by some of the most talented instructors in the Carolinas. All proceeds will be donated to UNICEF to aid the families in need during this crisis. https://www.facebook.com/events/430164680418042/?ref_newsfeed_story_type=regular … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Filipino Martial Arts – Knife Defense Seminar – Fundraiser for Typhoon Relief Assistance in the Philippines, Hollywood, Florida, USA. Nov 30th, 2013

November 11, 2013 by MO1

Filipino Martial Arts - Special Knife Defense Seminar Fundraiser for the Philippines, Hollywood, Florida USA. Nov 30th, 2013

Please join us for this full day seminar where you will get a chance to explore the topic of KNIFE DEFENSE from 3 different perspectives: GARIMOT ARNIS, CSSD/SC and Russian Martial Art SYSTEMA. Presenters: Gat Puno Abundio Baet (Chief Instructor "GAT" Garimot Arnis Training), GM Bram Frank (Chief Instructor Common Sense Self Defense Street Combat) and Joe Gehr (Chief Instructor of Systema Miami and Technon Tactical). All proceeds for this event will go to benefit the people of the Philippines via direct contact of Gat Puno Abon on the field. Min. suggested donation for this event $100. All donations are welcome. Give what you can but join us and show your support. More information will be posted here soon. SAVE THE DATE and SPREAD THE WORD. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima

Arnis Philippines Inc. (ARPI) organized “Operation Tulong” for ARPI members who had been victims of super typhoon “Yolanda”

November 11, 2013 by MO1

Arnis Philippines OPERATION TULONG FOR ARNISADORS Arnis Philippines Inc. (ARPI) organized “Operation Tulong” for ARPI members who had been victims of super typhoon “Yolanda”. Directors Med Quiambao and Rene Pronstroller were tasked to monitor the donations. President Raymond Velayo said that all donations nationwide shall go directly to the victims. Their names, contact numbers and area are as follows: 1. Arnis GM Carlito Ondillo 0921-5226327 Capiz Province 2. Glerio Urmeneta 0949-6958970 Tacloban City * Others to follow Please give us your full name and the victims name and donation given for posting inwww.arnisphilippines.com and arnisphilippines. Thank you for whatever assistance that you will give. Please continue to pray for all the victims of the typhoon and may God always bless you! … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Kalis Ilustrisimo Book by Guro Peachie Baron on Punta y Daga to be released early 2014

November 3, 2013 by MO1

Kalis Ilustrisimo Book by Guro Peachie Baron Saguin on Punta y Daga to be released early 2014 What Is It Like to Train with the Master of Kalis Ilustrisimo? By: Peachie Baron-Saguin Submitted by: Steven Dowd I first met Master Tony Diego when I joined Bakbakan International in 1989. He was a friend of the Master of Bakbakan Christopher Ricketts, and was invited frequently in our practice sessions, to share with the students of Bakbakan his style in sword and knife fighting. Master Tony Diego When Master Christopher Ricketts left for the States, I started training with Master Diego on a regular basis with his Binondo group, the Kalis Ilustrisimo. My training then took on a leap. I was showed the proper way to hold the blade, not to grip the handle too tight, to prevent it from being disarmed when struck heavily with another sword. I was then taught the different kinds and forms of striking and blocking, and the footwork and stances that goes for each attack and counter attack. I was asked to repeatedly execute a particular strike before moving on to the next. Master Diego has always reiterated the importance of a repetitive exercise for one to gain mastery of the form. Peachie Baron-Saguin training with Master Tony Diego Soon enough Master Diego taught me how to use the stick and knife at the same time. This style is called Puntai y Daga. From this style, my interest grew more and more and I always look forward to a sword play with Master Diego, where my speed and accuracy to block and strike are put to test, my distance and movements, checked and corrected. There are moments when Master Diego would attack me when my guard is down to find out how I would react. If I stopped, he would tell me not to think but just to react, otherwise I get hit. The word “sorry” is never use in the gym. If you get hit, it’s your fault. After considerable drills with a wooden sword, Master Diego gave me as a gift, a real sword to practice on. Again my strikes and counter strikes were checked. Using the real sword, Master Diego would ask me to execute the different strikes and counter strikes. The purpose of this exercise, he said, is to gain better control of the blade and to prevent improper techniques from developing, and thus trains the student to hit at the right angle. My first swordplay using a real sword with Master Diego was really scary, but then I passed with flying colors. Suffice it to say, I was taught not only to defend and attack on a standing position, but on a sitting and lying down position as well. The exercise of ascending and descending the stairs during a duel is so difficult and tiring. Disarming is also part of the drills. Training with Master Diego is not easy. I often find myself catching my breath during the swordplay, while Master Diego is laughing and comfortably attacking and parrying my strikes. At the end of each session, I am totally exhausted. My shoulders ache and I could hardly lift my arms. At home before going to bed, I would take a muscle relaxant to relieve the pain so I could train again in the next session. Master Tony Diego and Tommy Dy Tang (Tom) in action using a bladed bolo or sword in an exhib- ition of Kalis Ilustrisimo. Tom is an instructor of Kalis Ilustrisimo, owner of the gym in Binondo where the group practices. As I continue my training with Master Diego, I am learning not only the art of bladed weapons but also, the essence of a good swordsman, the discipline and the commitment that one must have to the art. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bakbakan Philippines, Books & Film, DVDs/Magazines/TV, Eskrima Tournament/Competition/Challenge, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Some of the Combat, Massacres,Rebellions, Disputes And Calamities of the Philippine Islands according to the book “The Inhabitants of the Philippines” By Frederic H. Sawyer. 1900

November 3, 2013 by MO1

Some of the Combat, Massacres, Rebellions, Disputes And Calamities of the Philippine Islands. according to the Book_ The Inhabitants of the Philippines By Frederic H. Sawyer Memb. Inst. C.E., Memb. Inst. N.A. London Sampson Low, Marston and Company Limited St. Dunstan’s House Fetter Lane, Fleet Street, E.C. 1900 Some of the Combat, Massacres, Rebellions, Disputes And Calamities of the Philippine Islands. 1521. Magellan and several of his followers killed in action by the natives of Mactan, near Cebú; Juan Serrano and many other Spaniards treacherously killed by Hamabar, King of Cebú. 1525. Salazar fights the Portuguese off Mindanao, and suffers great losses in ships and men. 1568. Legaspi’s expedition attacked in Cebú by a Portuguese fleet, which was repulsed. 1570. Legaspi founds the city of Cebú, with the assistance of the Augustinians. 1571. Legaspi founds the city of Manila, with the assistance of the Augustinians. 1572. Juan Salcedo fights the Datto of Zambales, and delivers his subjects from oppression. 1574. Siege of Manila by the Chinese pirate Li-ma-hon with 95 small vessels and 2000 men. The Spaniards and natives repulse the attack. The pirates retire to Pangasinan, and are attacked and destroyed by Juan Salcedo. 1577. War against Mindanao and Joló, parts of which are occupied. Disputes between the missionaries and the military officers who desire to enrich themselves by enslaving the natives, which the former stoutly oppose, desiring to convert them, and grant them exemption from taxes according to the “Leyes de Indias.” They considered the cupidity of the soldiers as the chief obstacle to the conversion of the heathen. The Crown decided in favour of the natives, but they did not derive all the benefits they were entitled to, as the humane laws were not respected by the governors. The Franciscans arrived in Manila. 1580. Expedition sent by Gonzalo Ronquillo to Borneo to assist King Sirela. 1581. Expedition sent by the same to Cagayan to expel a Japanese corsair who had established himself there. The expedition succeeded, but with heavy loss. Expedition against the Igorrotes to get possession of the gold-mines, but without success. The Jesuits arrive in Manila. 1582. Expedition against the Molucas, under Sebastian Ronquillo.[390]An epidemic destroyed two-thirds of the expedition, which returned without accomplishing anything. Great disputes between the encomenderos and the friars in consequence of the ill-treatment of the natives by the former. Dissensions between the Bishop of Manila and the friars who refused to submit to his diocesan visit. Manila burnt down. 1584. Second expedition against the Molucas, with no better luck than the first. Rebellion of the Pampangos and Manila men, assisted by some Mahometans from Borneo. Combat between the English pirate, Thomas Schadesh, and Spanish vessels. Combat between the English adventurer Thomas Cavendish (afterwards Sir Thomas), and Spanish vessels. 1587. The Dominicans arrive in Manila. 1589. Rebellion in Cagayan and other provinces. 1593. Third expedition against the Molucas under Gomez Perez Dasmariñias. He had with him in his galley 80 Spaniards and 250 Chinese galley-slaves. In consequence of contrary winds, his vessel put into a port near Batangas for shelter. In the silence of the night, when the Spaniards were asleep, the galley-slaves arose and killed them all except a Franciscan friar and a secretary. Dasmariñias built the castle of Santiago, and fortified Manila with stone walls, cast a large number of guns, and established the college of Sta. Potenciana. 1596. The galleon which left Manila for Acapulco with rich merchandise, was obliged to enter a Japanese port by stress of weather, and was seized by the Japanese authorities. The crew were barbarously put to death. 1597. Expedition of Luis Perez Dasmariñias against Cambodia, which gained no advantage. 1598. The Audiencia re-established in Manila, and the bishopric raised to an archbishopric. Expedition against Mindanao and Joló, the people from which were committing great devastations in Visayas, taking hundreds of captives. Much fighting, and many killed on both sides, without any definite result. 1599. Destructive earthquake in Manila and neighbourhood. 1600. Great sea combat between four Spanish ships, commanded by Judge Morga, and two Dutch pirates. One of the Dutchmen was taken, but the other escaped. Another destructive earthquake on January 7th, and one less violent, but long, in November. 1603. Conspiracy of Eng-Cang and the Chinese against the Spaniards. The Chinese entrench themselves near Manila; Luis Perez Dasmariñias marches against them with 130 Spaniards. They were all killed and decapitated by the Chinese, who then … [Read more...]

Filed Under: American Occupation, Books & Film, General, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, The Katipunan

BOOK: True Version of the Philippine Revolution By Don Emilio Aguinaldo y Famy President of the Philippine Republic., Tarlak (Philippine Islands), 23rd September, 1899

November 3, 2013 by MO1

True Version of the Philippine Revolution By Don Emilio Aguinaldo y Famy President of the Philippine Republic. Tarlak (Philippine Islands), 23rd September, 1899 To All Civilized Nations and Especially to the Great North American Republic I dedicate to you this modest work with a view to informing you respecting the international events which have occurred during the past three years and are still going on in the Philippines, in order that you may be fully acquainted with the facts and be thereby placed in a position to pronounce judgment upon the issue and be satisfied and assured of the Justice which forms the basis and is in fact the foundation of our Cause. I place the simple truth respectfully before and dedicate it to you as an act of homage and as testimony of my admiration for and recognition of the wide knowledge, the brilliant achievements and the great power of other nations, whom I salute, in the name the Philippine nation, with every effusion of my soul. The Author. Page 1 The Revolution of 1896 Spain maintained control of the Philippine Islands for more than three centuries and a half, during which period the tyranny, misconduct and abuses of the Friars and the Civil and Military Administration exhausted the patience of the natives and caused them to make a desperate effort to shake off the unbearable galling yoke on the 26th and 31st August, 1896, then commencing the revolution in the provinces of Manila and Cavite. On these memorable days the people of Balintawak, Santa Mesa, Kalookan, Kawit, Noveleta and San Francisco de Malabon rose against the Spaniards and proclaimed the Independence of the Philippines, and in the course of the next five days these uprisings were followed by the inhabitants of the other towns in Cavite province joining in the revolt against the Spanish Government although there was no previous arrangement looking to a general revolt. The latter were undoubtedly moved to action by the noble example of the former.Page 2 With regard to the rising in the province of Cavite it should be stated that although a call to arms bearing the signatures of Don Augustin Rieta, Don Candido Firona and myself, who were Lieutenants of the Revolutionary Forces, was circulated there was no certainty about the orders being obeyed, or even received by the people, for it happened that one copy of the orders fell into the hands of a Spaniard named Don Fernando Parga, Military Governor of the province, who at that time was exercising the functions of Civil Governor, who promptly reported its contents to the Captain-General of the Philippines, Don Ramon Blanco y Erenas. The latter at once issued orders for the Spanish troops to attack the revolutionary forces. It would appear beyond doubt that One whom eye of man hath not seen in his wisdom and mercy ordained that the emancipation of the oppressed people of the Philippines should be undertaken at this time, for otherwise it is inexplicable how men armed only with sticks andgulok1 wholly unorganized and undisciplined, could defeat the Spanish Regulars in severe engagements at Bakoor, Imus and Noveleta and, in addition to making many of them prisoners, captured a large quantity of arms and ammunition. It was owing to this astonishing success of the revolutionary troops that General Blanco quickly concluded to endeavour, to maintain Spanish control by the adoption of a Page 3conciliatory policy under the pretext that thereby he could quel the rebellion, his first act being a declaration to the effect that it was not the purpose of his Government to oppress the people and he had no desire “to slaughter the Filipinos.”. The Government of Madrid disapproved of General Blanco's new policy and speedily appointed Lieutenant-General Don Camilo Polavieja to supersede him, and despatched forthwith a large number of Regulars to the Philippines. General Polavieja advanced against the revolutionary forces with 16,000 men armed with Mausers, and one field battery. He had scarcely reconquered half of Cavite province when he resigned, owing to bad health. That was in April, 1897. Polavieja was succeeded by the veteran General Don Fernando Primo de Rivera, who had seen much active service. As soon as Rivera had taken over command of the Forces he personally led his army in the assault upon and pursuit of the revolutionary forces, and so firmly, as well as humanely, was the campaign conducted that he soon reconquered the whole of Cavite province and drove the insurgents into the mountains. Then I established my headquarters in the wild and unexplored mountain fastness of Biak-na-bató, where I formed the Republican Government of the Philippines at the end of May, 1897.Page 4 1 A kind of sword—Translator. The Treaty of Biak-na-bató Don Pedro Alejandro Paterno (who was appointed by the Spanish Governor-General sole mediator in the discussion of the terms of peace) visited Biak-na-bató several times to negotiate terms of the Treaty, … [Read more...]

Filed Under: American Occupation, Books & Film, General, Historic Figures, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

Baybayin – The Ancient Script of the Philippines by Paul Morrow

October 13, 2013 by MO1

Baybayin - The Ancient Script of the Philippines by Paul Morrow This language of ours is like any other, it once had an alphabet and its own letters that vanished as though a tempest had set upon a boat on a lake in a time now long gone. "To My Fellow Children”, attributed to Jose Rizal, 1869 English translation by P. Morrow The tempest in Rizal's verse struck the Philippines in the 16th century. It was the Spanish Empire and the lost alphabet was a script that is known today as the baybayin. Contrary to the common misconception, when the Spaniards arrived in the islands they found more than just a loose collection of backward and belligerent tribes. They found a civilization that was very different from their own. The ability to read and write is the mark of any civilization and, according to many early Spanish accounts, the Tagalogs had already been writing with the baybayin for at least a century. This script was just beginning to spread throughout the islands at that time. Furthermore, the discovery in 1987 of an inscription on a sheet of copper in Laguna is evidence that there was an even more advanced script in limited use in the Philippines as far back as the year 900 C.E. (See The Laguna Copperplate Inscription) Continue at: http://www.mts.net/~pmorrow/bayeng1.htm … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Baybayin, General, Pre Colonial Philippines, Regional History

Baybayin: The Lost Filipino Script (Part 1) by Indio Historian

October 13, 2013 by MO1

Baybayin: The Lost Filipino Script (Part 1) by Indio Historian The Baybayin as we know it today is an ancient Filipino system of writing, a set of 17 characters or letters that had spread throughout the Philippine archipelago in the sixteenth century. The graphic contours of the Baybayin are distinguished by smoothly flowing curvilinear strokes that convey both suppleness and strength. For some history enthusiasts, never ever ever ever call Baybayin “Alibata”. This name was invented by Paul Versoza who thought that Baybayin came from Arabic and thus named it ‘Alif-bata,’ the first letters of the Arabic script. Recent studies suggest that Baybayin may have come from Sanskrit, the ancient Indian script, brought to the Philippine shores by Indian traders. Where did the name Baybayin come from? The word ‘baybay’ in ancient Tagalog means ‘to spell’ or in modern Filipino, ‘syllable.’ As early as 900 AD, there are tidbits of evidences that the ancients in our islands had a sophisticated way of writing. As to why it quickly disappeared comes from the fact that we were never a print culture like China and Korea, that used paper and built large libraries of scrolls to preserve their history, their memory. Another factor is the effective colonization of Spain by the forcing of the houses of ‘natives’ to be gathered around a town-square called ‘reducciones’ close to the church and the alcaldes for the close supervision of the Spanish authorities. Continue at: http://indiohistorian.tumblr.com/post/13097309564/baybayin-the-lost-filipino-script-part-1-the … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Baybayin, Pre Colonial Philippines, Regional History

Way Of The Balisong – An independent documentary film project that examines the history and culture of the Balisong Knife.

October 5, 2013 by MO1

Way Of The Balisong An independent documentary film project that examines the history and culture of the Balisong Knife. BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR OUR KICKSTARTER CAMPAIGN STARTING SOON!!! Synopsis> From the Batangas region of the Philippines, to the cutlery factories of Oregon-USA, to the practitioners and aficionados connected by the World Wide Web, this film examines the origins, history and culture of the notorious Balisong Knife. Well-known from its appearance in films and popularity among blade enthusiasts, often overlooked is the small town which made the knife famous, now struggling to maintain its identity in a modernizing world. Help Make This Film> The Film is one-third through it's principle completion. Finishing the film will require your help. If you would like to support this project and be a part of history please join our mailing list and follow us on facebook / twitter to stay tuned to announcement for our Kickstarter funding campaign, starting on October 7th. https://www.facebook.com/WayOfTheBalisongwww.wayofthebalisong.comhttps://twitter.com/BalisongMovie Help Make This Film 'Way of the Balisong' is a passion project that started from a visit to the heritage town of Taal, in the Batangas region of the Philippines by filmmaker Paul Factora in 2012. After hearing about the plight of the people in Barangay Balisong and speaking with prominent blade merchant Diosdado Ona about the disappearing industry within the Town it was named after, a decision was made to return and document their story. After 2 subsequent trips to the Philippines, the story expanded. Originally intended as a short 10 minute piece, it became apparent that the tale of the Balisong knife was not relegated to just the Philippines and in order to tell the full story the project must also grow. It wasn't just about a knife, it became about the people who pioneered a craft that spread throughout the world and how that craft is now dwindling away. Along with a couple of friends & cameras one-third of the principle photography was shot in the Philippines completely self funded. Completing the film in it's envisioned entirety, will require another trip to the Philippines and several interviews shot throughout the U.S. 'Way Of The Balisong' will need YOUR help to be completed. Please join our mailing list to recieve updates on our Kickstarter Campaign beginning October 7, 2013 and stay tuned to learn what you can do to help make 'Way Of The Balisong' a reality. http://www.wayofthebalisong.com/about.html … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Blades & Artifacts, Books & Film, DVDs/Magazines/TV, Eskrima Tournament/Competition/Challenge, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Regional History

BOOK: Anting-Anting Stories And Other Strange Tales of the Filipinos By Sargent Kayme. Boston: Small, Maynard & Company. 1901

October 3, 2013 by MO1

Anting-Anting Stories And Other Strange Tales of the Filipinos By Sargent Kayme Boston: Small, Maynard & Company 1901 [Contents]Copyright, 1901, by Small, Maynard & Company (Incorporated)Entered at Stationers’ HallPress of J. J. Arakelyan Boston, U.S.A.[V] [Contents] Foreword The life of the inhabitants of the far-away Eastern islands in which the people of the United States are now so vitally interested opens to our literature a new field not less fresh and original than that which came to us when Mr. Kipling first published his Indian tales. India had always possessed its wonders and its remarkable types, but they waited long for adequate expression. No less wonderful and varied are the inhabitants and the phenomena of the Philippines, and a new author, showing rare knowledge of the country and its strange peoples, now gives us a collection of simple yet powerful stories which bring them before us with dramatic vividness. Pirates, half naked natives, pearls, man-apes, towering volcanoes about whose summits clouds and unearthly traditions float together, strange animals and birds, and stranger men, pythons, bejuco ropes stained with human blood, feathering palm trees now fanned by soft breezes and now crushed to the ground by tornadoes;—on no mimic stage was ever a more [VI]wonderful scene set for such a company of actors. That the truly remarkable stories written by Sargent Kayme do not exaggerate the realities of this strange life can be easily seen by any one who has read the letters from press correspondents, our soldiers, or the more formal books of travel. Strangest, perhaps, of all these possibilities for fiction is the anting-anting, at once a mysterious power to protect its possessor and the outward symbol of the protection. No more curious fetich can be found in the history of folk-lore. A button, a coin, a bit of paper with unintelligible words scribbled upon it, a bone, a stone, a garment, anything, almost—often a thing of no intrinsic value—its owner has been known to walk up to the muzzle of a loaded musket or rush upon the point of a bayonet with a confidence so sublime as to silence ridicule and to command admiration if not respect. The Editor.[VII] [Contents] Contents The Anting-Anting of Captain Von Tollig1 The Cave in the Side of Coron21 The Conjure Man of Siargao41 Mrs. Hannah Smith, Nurse65 The Fifteenth Wife93 “Our Lady of Pilar”113 A Question of Time131 The Spirit of Mount Apo153 With What Measure Ye Mete179 Told at the Club195 Pearls of Sulu211 [3] [Contents] Anting-Anting Stories The Anting-Anting of Captain Von Tollig There had been a battle between the American forces and the Tagalogs, and the natives had been driven back. The stone church of Santa Maria, around which the engagement had been hottest, and far beyond which the native lines had now been driven, had been turned into a hospital for the wounded Tagalogs left by their comrades on the field. Beneath a broad thatched shed behind the church lay the bodies of the dead, stiff and still under the coverings of cocoanut-fibre cloth thrown hastily over them. The light of a full tropic moon threw the shadow of the roof over them like a soft, brown velvet pall. They were to be buried between day-break and sunrise, that the men who buried them might escape the heat of the day. The American picket lines had been posted a quarter of a mile beyond the church, near which no other guards had been placed. Not long after midnight a surgeon, one of the two [4]men left on duty in the church, happened to look out through a broken window towards the shed, and in the shadow, against the open moonlight-flooded field beyond, saw something moving. Looking close he could make out the slim, brown figure of a native passing swiftly from one covered form to another, and turning back the cocoanut-fibre cloth to look at each dead man’s face. Calling the man who was working with him the surgeon pointed out the man beneath the shed to him. “That fellow has no business there,” he said, “He has slipped through the lines in some way. He may be a spy, but even if he is not, he is here for no good. We must capture him.” “All right,” was the answer. “You go around the church one way, and I will come the other.” When the surgeon, outside the hospital, reached a place where he could see the shed again, the Tagalog had ceased his search. He had found the body he was looking for, and sunk down on his knees beside it was [5]searching for something in the clothing which covered the dead man’s breast. A moment later he had seen the men stealing towards him from the church, had cleared the open space beneath the shed at a leap, and was off in the moonlight, running towards the outposts. The surgeons swore; and one fired a shot after him from his revolver. “Might as well shoot at the shadow of that palm tree,” the one who had shot said. “Anyway it will wake up the pickets, and … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Anting Anting, Books & Film, General, Regional History

SILENT FILM: Philippine American War – Advance of Kansas Volunteers at Caloocan by Thomas A. Edison; 5 June 1899

October 1, 2013 by MO1

Philippine American War - Advance of Kansas Volunteers at Caloocan by Thomas A. Edison; 5 June 1899 From LibraryOfCongress, Washinton D.C. Comment by Mandirigma.org: At the time of this production, film was a brand new medium. This Film by Thomas Edison shows Filipino Freedom Fighters defending their country against American Invaders. However the director portrays the Filipinos as "Rebels" and the Americans as defenders of "Freedom" and "Liberty" who overcome the "Insurgents". http://youtu.be/_ZjrPU6rPHE SUMMARY From Edison films catalog: From the thick underbrush where the Filipinos are massed comes volley after volley. They are making one of those determined stands that marks Caloocan as the bloodiest battle of the Filipino rebellion. Suddenly, with impetuous rush, Funston's men appear. They pause but for a moment, to fire, reload and fire. The color bearer falls, but the standard is caught up by brave Sergeant Squires and waves undaunted in the smoke and din of the receding battle. This is one of the best battle pictures ever made. The first firing is done directly toward the front of the picture, and the advance of the U.S. troops apparently through the screen is very exciting; the gradual disappearance of the fighters sustaining the interest to the end. 65 feet. $9.75. NOTES Copyright: Thomas A. Edison; 5June1899; 37443. Original main title lacking. Reenacted by the New Jersey National Guard. Materials listed originate from the paper print chosen best copy of two for digitization; for other holdings on this title, contact M/B/RS reference staff. Edison code name (for telegraphic orders): Unbroached. MAVIS 47087; Advance of Kansas Volunteers at Caloocan. Reenacted May 1899 in the Orange Mountains near West Orange, New Jersey. Sources used: Copyright catalog, motion pictures, 1894-1912; Musser, C. Edison motion pictures 1890-1900, 1997; Niver, K.R. Early motion pictures, 1985; Edison films catalog, no. 94, March 1900, p. 4 [MI]; Edison films catalog, no. 105, July 1901, p. 30 [MI]. SUBJECTS United States.--Army.--Kansas Volunteer Infantry Regiment, 20th. Philippines--History--Philippine American War, 1899-1902--Battlefields. Battles--Philippines. Soldiers. Revolutionaries--Philippines. Funston, Frederick,--1865-1917--Military leadership. Battle casualties--Philippines. Flags--United States. War films. Historical reenactments (Motion pictures) Short films. Silent films. Nonfiction films. RELATED NAMES White, James H. (James Henry), production. New Jersey. National Guard. Thomas A. Edison, Inc. Paper Print Collection (Library of Congress) CALL NUMBER FEC 2820 (ref print) FPE 9628 (dupe neg) FPE 9135 (masterpos) LC 973a (paper pos) DIGITAL ID sawmp 0973 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.mbrsmi/sawmp.0973 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: American Occupation, Books & Film, General, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, The Katipunan

Fundraiser for Master Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo, July 2013

August 9, 2013 by MO1

Master Tony Diego, Ilustrisimo, Kali Ilustrisimo, Kalis Ilustrisimo, Antonio Ilustrisimo, Arnis, Escrima, www.http://mandirigma.org, www.http://backyardeskrima.com/

Greetings friends, We are seeking assistance for Master Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo. Master Diego's wife has breast cancer and has just had surgery for the second time. Sadly, even with surgery it has spread and costly chemotherapy is required. Master Diego is retired from work and has no medical or retirement benefits, so any amount donated will be very much appreciated and put to good use. If you would like to donate you can contact Dino at: mandirigma.org@gmail.com or you can contact Peachie Baron at: peachiebaron@facebook.com … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

The Films of Bakbakan Philippines member Master Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines

August 8, 2013 by MO1

The Films of Bakbakan Philippines member Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines ilustrisimo bakbakab

The Films of Bakbakan Philippines member Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines Ronnie Ricketts is an actor, film producer and film director in the Philippine Movie and Film Industry. What is less commonly know is that he is a martial artist expert and a Master instructor in the Martial Arts group, Bakbakan International. He is currently the Chairman of the Optical Media Board (OMB), a Philippine Government Agency, which combats piracy of films, music, computer games and software. Ronnie in versed in several forms on Martial arts including the Filipino Warrior Art Kali Ilustrisimo. Ronnie is the brother of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts the founder of the Martial Arts Brotherhood - Bakbakan International. Several of Ronnie's films feature the Martial Arts including the Warrior Arts of the Philippines generally know as Kali, Arnis or Eskrima. Bakbakan Members frequently appear in Ronnies movies. Ronnies latest movie "The Fighting Chefs". Some scenes feature the Philippines Martial Arts performed by himself and his nephews Bruce and Brandon Ricketts. Bruce and Brandon are Martial Arts experts and instructors in Kali Ilustrisimo. Behind the scence for the movie "The Fighting Chefs. Ronnie with nephews Bruce and Brandons rehearsing some Ilustrisimo Filipino Martial Arts moves for the scene. Ronnie with his brother, Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts. Poster for Mano Mano 3: The Lost Art. Ronnie Ricketts Filmography 2013 The Fighting Chefs 2007 One Percent Full 2006 Lagot Ka Sa Kuya Ko 2005 Uno 2004 Mano Mano 3: Arnis The Lost Art 2003 Utang Ng Ama - Director (Uncredited) 2003 Dayo 2001 Mano Mano 2: Ubusan Ng Lakas 1999 Ang Boyfriend Kong Pari 1999 Desperado, Bahala Na Ang Itaas 1998 May Sayad 1998 My Guardian Debil 1998 Kamandag Ko Ang Papatay Sa 'Yo (Released Date: 4 February 1998) 1998 Anting-Anting 1997 Emong Salvacion 1997 Ilaban Mo Bayan Ko 1997 Wala Ka Ng Puwang Sa Mundo (Released Date: 22 October 1997) 1996 Kahit Sa Bala Kakapit Ako (Released Date: 9 October 1996) 1996 Hawak Ko Buhay Mo (Released Date: 25 September 1996) 1996 Madaling Mamatay, Mahirap Mabuhay (Released Date: 22 May 1996) 1995 Huwag Mong Isuko Ang Laban (Released Date: 25 December 1995) to (1995 MMFF) 1995 Mano Mano 1995 Angel On Fire 1995 Ultimate Revenge 1995 Matinik Na Kalaban (Released Date: 8 November 1995) 1994 Matira Ang Matibay (Released Date: 22 June 1994) 1993 Maton (Directed by: TOTO NATIVIDAD) (Released Date: 24 November 1993) 1993 Pambato (Released Date: 6 October 1993) 1993 Ikaw Lang (Released Date: 25 August 1993) 1993 Alejandro 'Diablo' Malubay (Released Date: 26 May 1993) 1992 Boy Recto (Released Date: 25 December 1992) to (1992 MMFF) 1992 Basagulero (Released Date: 14 October 1992) 1992 Dalawa man ang Buhay mo Pagsasabayin ko (Released Date: 12 August 1992) 1992 Aguila At Guerrero (Released Date: 22 July 1992) 1992 True Confessions (Evelyn, Myrna, & Margie) 1992 Zei Fa Wei Long 1991 Ganti Ng Api 1991 Kumukulong Dugo 1991 Anak ng Dagat 1990 Baril ko ang Uusig (Released Date: 14 November 1990) 1990 Isa-Isahin Ko Kayo (Released Date: 6 June 1990) 1990 Kakampi Ko Ang Diyos (Released Date: 8 May 1990) 1989 My Darling Domestic (Greyt Eskeyp) 1989 Black Sheep Baby (Released Date: 22 November 1989) 1989 UZI Brothers (Released Date: 27 September 1989) 1989 Uzi Brothers 9mm (Released Date: 9 August 1989) 1989 Tatak Ng Isang Api (Released Date: 26 April 1989) 1989 Gapos Gang (Released Date: 22 March 1989) 1988 Alex Boncayao Brigade: The Liquidation Arm Of The Npa 1988 Kumakasa, Kahit Nag-iisa 1988 Tumayo Ka't Lumaban 1988 Target: Maganto 1987 The Rookies And The Mighty Kids 1987 Mga Agila Ng Arkong Bato 1987 Ambush 1987 Target Sparrow Unit 1987 Cabarlo 1987 Kamandag Ng Kris 1986 Payaso 1986 Nakagapos Na Puso 1986 Agaw Armas 1986 Bodyguard: Masyong Bagwisa Jr. 1986 I Love You Mama, I Love You Papa 1986 The Graduates 1986 John En Marsha '86 TNT Sa America 1986 Dongalo Massacre 1985 The Crazy Professor 1985 Heated Vengeance 1984 Sa Hirap At Ginhawa 1983 Love Birds 1983 I Love You, I Hate You 1982 Good Morning, Professor 1982 My Heart Belongs To Daddy Directed by Ronnie Ricketts Rumble Boy (2007) Lagot ka sa kuya ko (2006) (as Ronn Rick) ... aka Isusumbong kita sa kuya ko (Uno (2005) (as Ronn Rick) Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004) (as Ronn Rick) Dayo (2003) (as Ronn Rick) Boyfriend kong pari, Ang (1999) (as Ronn Rick) Boy Buluran (1997) (as Ronn Rick) Wala ka nang puwang sa mundo (1997) (as Ronn Rick) Madaling mamatay, mahirap mabuhay (1996) (as Ronn Rick) Produced: Lagot ka sa kuya ko (2006) ... aka Isusumbong kita sa kuya ko (Philippines: Tagalog title) Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004) (producer) Wrote: Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004) Huwag mong isuko ang laban … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Bakbakan Philippines, Books & Film, Eskrima Tournament/Competition/Challenge, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Second Lameco Eskrima DVD featuring Guro Dino Flores released by Budo International

August 8, 2013 by MO1

Second Lameco Eskrima DVD featuring Guro Dino Flores released by Budo International This dvd is focused in long distance with the sword, a special training that was heavily influenced by Great Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo. Guro Flores will teach you the differences in strategy in long distance with either stick or sword, the footwork and five of the 12 Eskrima Drills in detail with their applications and variations. Guro Dino Flores has focused this work on long range distance, a distance you must master before venturing into medium or short range distance with any weapon and without protective gear. The 12 Eskrima Drills are a combination of the movements Punong Gruo Sulite found most common in real combat situations and referred to them as the “Soul of Lameco”, because many hidden secrets are found in these apparently simple exercises. Though most of the Eskrima exercises can be done either with stick or sword, this dvd is focused in long distance with the sword, a special training that was heavily influenced by Great Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo. Guro Flores will teach you the differences in strategy in long distance with either stick or sword, the footwork and five of the 12 Eskrima Drills in detail with their applications and variations. These exercises are essential in order to understand the Great Art of Fighting know as Lameco Eskrima. LANGUAGES: ENGLISH. ESPAÑOL, ITALIANO, FRANÇAIS http://www.budointernational.net/296_dino-flores http://youtu.be/kb2291PfCms Information on the first DVD can be found at this link: http://backyardeskrima.com/?p=361 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Books & Film, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Kapisanang Mandirigma and other Eskrima Groups to perform at the 22nd Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture, 2013 in Los Angeles

August 7, 2013 by MO1

Kapisanang Mandirigma and other Eskrima Groups to perform at the 22nd Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture, 2013 in Los Angeles http://fpacpahayag.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/martial-artists/ The iconic festival and annual celebration returns, now in its 22nd year! FilAm ARTS invites you to join us Sep.7-8 at Pt Fermin Park for the largest and longest-running community tradition in Southern California -- the only event where you can see over 500 artists & performers from all over the world entertain you and 25,000 of your closest friends & family! Advance tickets are available at http://fpac22.eventbrite.com/ Whether it's your first time or 22nd, it's always a party at FPAC. Bring everyone you can to the Filipino party of the year! FPAC is produced by FilAm ARTS - the Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts & Culture, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, and sponsored by the City of Los Angeles, LA County Arts Commission, California Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, California Community Foundation, Toyota, The Getty Foundation, LA-18, Mavshack, The Asian Journal, Weekend Balita, BakitWhy.com, Oishi Media, The James Irvine Foundation, and LEAP, Inc. Martial Artists Posted on May 13, 2013 Nick Papadakis Kombat Instruments Ltd. Nick “Pappy” Papadakis has 30 years experience in the martial arts with over 100 fights in the Dog Brothers Gathering of the Pack. Instructor Pekiti Tirsia Kali, Full Instructor Dog Brothers Martial Arts, Blue Belt BJJ, 2nd degree black belt North American Self Defense Institute Kombat Instruments Ltd. is a company created to serve the needs of combat martial artists by providing durable gear for full-contact stick fighting and weapon matches. For more information on Nick or Kombat Instruments Ltd visit www.bloodsport.com ::: Master Joe Tan Modern Tapado Joe feels very lucky and privileged to have trained personally and forged friendship with the original founders of these three Arnis groups that have made their own unique contributions in the propagation of Stick fighting as an Art. He has lot to share with the world. Tapado is an Original Filipino Martial Art which came from a Hiligaynon ( a Filipino dialect) word ‘Tapat’ or ‘Tapos’ which means – finished or done in english.or to finish the job in one strike. For more information visit www.mastertapadoarnis.com ::: Willie Laureano FMA Instructor Guro Willie Laureano is a Kali, Silat, and Kickboxing instructor at Elite Training Center. Willie says, “I am proud to be associated with Elite Training Center where I offer the best in all aspects of the Martial way including physical training respect and confidence.” Willie has lots of Martial Arts training and teaching experience. He has even trained and taught under Guro Dan Inosanto. He has also trained and taught alongside many notable instructors from around the world. Elite Training Center is a martial arts school focusing on self-defense and fitness. Teaching confidence while respecting others, they are founded on the four principals of Respect, Honor, Discipline, and Strength. Techniques include LOTAR®(Close Quarter Battle techniques) and Krav Maga (intuitive self-defense independent of strength or size), Muay Thai kickboxing, Adult Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as sport, Youth MMA that emphasizes our founding principles, and Kali/Silat/Eskrima (Filipino open hand and stick fighting). For more information visit www.elitetrainingcenter.net ::: Dino Flores The Kapisanang Mandirigma Eskrima Training Institute Guro Dino has taught numerous seminars and classes over the years. He has appeared on Television, Instructional Videos, Independent Film and Radio Shows promoting the arts. He has contributed to magazine article for publications such as “Masters”, “Blitz” and “FMA Digest. Guro Dino has also contributed to book publications including “Masters of the Blade” and “Warrior Arts of the Philippines”. He is currently working on several book and video projects for various masters.  Guro Dino has conducted numerous seminars, lectures and demonstrations. Including conferences at UCLA, Cal State Fullerton, University of California Irvine, Loyola Marymount University, Glendale College, Cherry Blossom Festival, Lotus Festival, Philippie Tourism Expo, Sports Expo in Manila, Balintawak Cuentada Gathering Las Vegas and The Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture to name a few. Guro Dino was one of the first instructors invited to the World Filipino Martial Arts Association EXPO in Seattle, Washinton in 1993. One of his proudest moments was to be one of two cultural groups (the othe one being traditional dance) to perform in the world famous Los Angeles City Hall during the televised dedication of the the very first official “Filipinotown” in the USA. Other activities include Guro … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Festivals, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

2nd FMA Charity Festival in Trebur, Germany for Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo

August 6, 2013 by MO1

2nd FMA Charity Festival in Trebur, Germany for Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo https://www.facebook.com/events/492191180856607/?notif_t=plan_edited "Master Tony's wife has breast cancer and had her second surgery last week. Even with the surgery though, it has spread and chemo therapy is needed. Master Tony is very much affected. Master Diego is retired from work and has no medical or retirement benefits. They had been saving money to operate on Master Diego's knees as they have deteriorated considerably in recent years. Master Diego is constantly in pain because of it. When the cancer was discovered, all the saved knee operation funds went to his wife's first cancer operation costs." Instructors: GM Datu Dieter Knuettel (National Coach Modern Arnis) Master Philipp Wolf (NickelStick Balintawak Eskrima) Guro Flavio Ruiz Van Hoof (M.A.R.S.) Guro Tobias Ricker (Cacoy Doce Pares) Guro Jojo Balinado (Balinado Arnis Krusada) Guro Lars Helms (Pekiti Tirsia Kali) Hanjo Bergmann (Giron Arnis Eskrima) Andreas Hofmann (Filipino Fighting Arts) Joe Brandt (Lightning Scientific Arnis) Christof Froehlich (Lameco Eskrima) Minimum Donation: 25€ you are more than welcome to donate more;-) ALL DONATIONS GO DIRECTLY TOWARDS GM TONY DIEGO WITHOUT ANY COMMISIONS!! MORE INFORMATIONS FOLLOW https://www.facebook.com/events/492191180856607/?notif_t=plan_edited Organized by Christof Froehlich of Kapisanang Mandirigma Germany and Lameco Eskrima Germany … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Mandirigma.org, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Magazine interview featuring Guro Dino Flores in July, 2013 issue of Cinturon Negro

August 6, 2013 by MO1

Magazine interview featuring Guro Dino Flores in July, 2013 issue of Cinturon Negro http://www.budointernational.net/ … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Interviews, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Lameco Eskrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Massive balangay ‘mother boat’ unearthed in Butuan By TJ DIMACALI,GMA News

August 5, 2013 by MO1

mandirigma.org kali arnis escrima eskrima

Massive balangay 'mother boat' unearthed in Butuan By TJ DIMACALI,GMA News The largest sailing vessel of its kind yet discovered is being unearthed in Butuan City in Mindanao, and it promises to rewrite Philippine maritime history as we know it. Estimated to be around 800 years old, the plank vessel may be centuries older than the ships used by European explorers in the 16th century when they first came upon the archipelago later named after a Spanish king, Las Islas Felipenas. Continue at: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/321334/scitech/science/massive-balangay-mother-boat-unearthed-in-butuan The find also underscores theories that the Philippines, and Butuan in particular, was a major center for cultural, religious, and commercial relations in Southeast Asia. 'Nails' the size of soda cans National Museum archeologist Dr. Mary Jane Louise A. Bolunia, who leads the research team at the site, says almost everything about the newly-discovered "balangay" is massive.She holds up her hand and curls her fingers into a circle, as if grasping a soda can. "That's just one of the treenails used in its construction," Bolunia says. An aptly descriptive term, a "treenail" is a wooden peg or dowel used in place of iron nails in boatbuilding. So with "nails" that size, exactly how big is this boat? Dr. Bolunia produces a piece of onionskin paper with a carefully-inked map of the archeological site. On the upper corner is a roughly pea pod-shaped boat wreck, about 15 meters long, one of nine similarly-sized balangays discovered at the site since the 1970's. But right next to it, discovered only in 2012, are what seem to be the remains of another balangay so wide that it could easily fit the smaller craft into itself twice over – and that's just the part that's been excavated so far. Although the boat has yet to be fully excavated, it's estimated to be at least 25 meters long. Aside from the treenails, the individual planks alone are each as broad as a man's chest – roughly twice the width of those used in other balangays on the site. The planks are so large that they can no longer be duplicated, because there are no more trees today big enough to make boards that size, according to Dr. Bolunia. Proceeding with caution Historians, and Bolunia herself, caution that much work still needs to be done before the boat can be conclusively dated and identified."(The newly-discovered boat) will need more technical verification to establish its connection and relationship with the other boats already excavated, so that we can know its date, boat typology, and technology," said Dr. Maria Bernadette L. Abrera, professor and chairperson of the Department of History at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, in an email interview. "We have to be careful," said Ramon Villegas, a scholar who has done extensive research on pre-colonial Philippine history. "There has not been enough time to study (the artifacts). It could be a Spanish boat or Chinese junk." Aside from carbon dating to determine the age of the wood, the construction techniques used and even the type of wood itself need to be ascertained before anyone can come to a definitive conclusion. "Everything depends on the construction, on how the boat was built, before you can properly call it a 'balangay'," explains archeologist and anthropologist Dr. Jesus Peralta. He said he has yet to see the newfound boat for himself. Nevertheless, the boat's proximity to previous sites of buried balangays promises to send ripples through the academic world. "It's a 'mother boat'," Dr. Bolunia says with little hesitation, "and it's changing the way we think about ancient Filipino seafarers." Rewriting Philippine history It has long been established that Filipinos traveled across Southeast Asia as early as the 10th century, reaching as far as Champa – what is now the eastern coast of Vietnam – in groups of balangays. These groups or flotillas have always been thought to consist of similarly-sized small vessels, an idea perpetuated by the term "barangay" – the smallest administrative division of the present-day Philippine government. But, according to Dr. Bolunia, this new discovery suggests that these may just have been support vessels for a much larger main boat, where trade goods and other supplies were likely to have been held for safekeeping. The discovery also suggests that seafaring Filipinos were much more organized and centralized than previously thought. Butuan as a major center of culture and trade "This balangay reinforces the findings of the earlier excavations about the role of Butuan as a commercial and population center in precolonial Philippines," Abrera told GMA News."Butuan seaport had long-time trade links with Champa and Guandong (China). You can retrace the importance of (the newly-discovered boat) by utilizing it as an archeological key to that period when Butuan was a busy link to … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Ethno Linguistic Groups, General, Philippines Ethnic Groups, Pre Colonial Philippines, Regional History

FMA Fundraising Seminar Friday, 16 August 2013, Idar-Oberstein, Germany

August 4, 2013 by MO1

Fundraiser kali arnis eskrima escrima kalis fma Fundraiser kali arnis eskrima escrima kalis fma Fundraiser kali arnis eskrima escrima kalis fma 2013

FMA Fundraising Seminar Friday, 16 August 2013, Idar-Oberstein, Germany FMA Fundraising Seminar schedule of training: August 16. Freiday, 10 am - 12 noon, 14 pm - 18 pm August 17. Saturday 10 am - 12 noon, 14 pm - 18 pm August 18. Sonnday 10 am - 14 pm … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Fundraisers/Causes/Donations, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes

Katipunero: Simeón Ola y Arboleda -Philippine Revolution Hero and the last General to surrender to American forces during the Philippine-American War

August 2, 2013 by MO1

The Paternal Great Grandfather of Mandirigma.orgs' Guro Dino Flores, Segundo Flores was a Katipunero serving under the General Simeón Ola y Arboleda in the Bicol Region. Major Simeón Ola y Arboleda was under General Vito Belarmino, the Zone Commander of the Revolutionary Forces in the Bicol Region. ---------- Simeón Ola y Arboleda Municipal President of Albay, In office 1904–1908 Born: 2 September 1865 Guinobatan, Albay, Philippines Died : 14 February 1952 (aged 86) Guinobatan, Albay, Philippines Organization: Katipunan Simeón Ola y Arboleda (September 2, 1865 – February 14, 1952) was a hero of the Philippine Revolution and the last general to surrender to American forces during the Philippine-American War. Biography Simeon Ola was born on September 2, 1865 to Vicente Ola and Apolonia Arboleda, who were ordinary citizens with little money. He was enrolled in Holy Rosary Minor Seminary and studied Philosophy, but didn't finish the course. He joined the local branch of the Katipunan in his hometown province of Albay and later became the leader. With the help of a parish priest he was able to acquire arms to support his men. He was promoted to the rank of captain after the battle of Camalig in Albay, 1898 and again promoted to the rank of major after a daring ambush mission that led to the capture of three Americans. He was also the leader of the subsequent valiant attacks on Albay towns namely, Oas, Ligao and Jovellar. He later surrendered on the condition that his men would be granted amnesty. He was put on trial and was proven guilty of sedition and was sentenced to thirty years in prison. In 1904, he was given a pardon and returned to his place of birth and became the municipal president. The regional police command in Legazpi City was name after him. SIMEON A. OLA (1865-1952) Revolutionist In Guinobatan, Albay hailed Simeon Ola, the man who would lead the Bicolanos fight for their freedom. He was born on September 2, 1865 to Vicente Ola and Apolonia Arboleda. Ola was highly regarded in Guinobatan, being the teniente de cuadrillos and a trusted confidant of Father Carlos Cabido, the parish priest of his town. These positions helped him carry out his revolutionary works – recruiting men and acquiring firearms for the revolutionary army. He connived with the jail warden in his town, Sergeant Loame, to free about 93 prisoners. The prisoners soon joined his army. In April 1898, he fought in the battle of Camalig. General Vito Belarmino, the Zone Commander of the Revolutionary Forces in the Bicol Region, designated him the rank of a Captain. Fully committed to the cause of the revolution, he also raised funds amounting to P42, 000.00, which he turned over to General Mariano Trias, Secretary of Finance of the Revolutionary Government. On January 23, 1900, he was promoted Major after he successfully effected an ambush and captured three American soldiers: Dubose, Fred Hunter and Russel. In February that same year, his troops fought against the Americans in Arimbay, Legaspi. His cousin Jose Arboleda perished in the bloody battle. American soldiers’ mighty firepower and combat training did not dampen his spirit; he continued to fight so that his men were encouraged and more men joined his army. With the army of Colonel Engracio Orence, he fought valiantly in the battle of Binogsacan in Guinobatan, Albay. His army rested for over a month in July 1901 when he accompanied General Belarmino to Manila. He resumed his campaign in August by raiding the town of Oas, Albay. On August 12, 1902, he ambushed the American detachment at Macabugos, Ligao. Ola became a marked man to the Americans. Although his troops were easily repulsed during battles, the Americans took him seriously. From March to October 1903, the Americans set up the reconcentration system as a means to stop Ola’s activities. Because of the damage it caused even to the innocent civilians, they turned into negotiations. They sent Ramon Santos and Major Jesse S. Garwood of the Constabulary as emissaries to negotiate for his surrender, which he politely refused. Instead, he carried on his battle. On July 15, 1903, he ambushed the 31st Philippine Scout Garrison under the command of Sergeant Nicolas Napoli in Joveliar, Albay. The persistent effort of the peace panel and his battle weary men made Ola realized that he could never win the war. He became open to the agreement set by Colonel Harry H. Bandholtz, the Assistant Commander of the Constabulary in Lucena, Tayabas, for his surrender. The agreement included general amnesty, fair treatment and justice to his comrades in arms. On September 25, 1903 the negotiating panel composed of Ramon Santos, Eligio Arboleda, Epifanio Orozco, Frank L. Pyle, John Paegelow, J.B. Allison and Joseph Rogers went to his camp in Malagnaton, Mapaco, Guinobatan. Eventually, Ola surrendered to Governor Bette and Colonel Bandholtz. Charged with … [Read more...]

Filed Under: General, Historic Figures, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

Emilio Aguinaldo filmed with actor Douglas Fairbanks, Philippines, 1931

August 1, 2013 by MO1

Emilio Aguinaldo and Douglas Fairbanks his Cavite home March 26 1931

Emilio Aguinaldo filmed with actor Douglas Fairbanks, Philippines, 1931 http://youtu.be/QJyqxWhQ38o In 1931 Douglas Fairbanks went on a trip to Asia, and made a comic travelogue entitled "Around the World in 80 Minutes". The clip from the Philippines included a short speech in Spanish by Emilio Aguinaldo. Fairbanks was a movie producer and actor in silent films. He co-founded the American film studio United Artists and hosted the first Oscars Ceremony in 1929. La calidad del audio deja mucho que desear, pero me parece que el Sr. Aguinaldo dijo: "Os participo de que he dado la bienvenida a nuestro gran actor (?Douglas Fairbanks) de America. Por la misma razón espero que esta visita que nos ha dignado dicho gran actor,(???), estrechará más la armonía entre americanos y filipinos" Una traducción literal: I have given welcome to our great actor, Douglas Fairbanks, from America. For the same reason, I hope that this visit by this great actor, who has humbled himself to us, will develop greater harmony between Americans and Filipinos. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: American Occupation, Books & Film, General, Historic Figures, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, The Katipunan, Videos

Sino pumatay kay Antonio Luna? – Philippine TV Show Crime Klasik – Episode #301 – June 8, 2012

July 23, 2013 by MO1

Sino pumatay kay Antonio Luna? - Philippine TV Show Crime Klasik - Episode #301 - June 8, 2012 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvBeckZI9Jo Isa sa pinakamatapang at pinakamatalinong Heneral na lumaban sa mananakop si General Antonio Luna. Pero hindi tulad ng ibang bayani, sa kamay raw ng kapwa Pilipino natapos ang kaniyang buhay. Paano nabago nito ang ating kasaysayan? Was it Aguinaldo who had Antonio Luna killed? Go back in time and know the history of Antonio Luna here in Crime Klasik. More on Crime Klasik: https://www.facebook.com/CrimeKlasik … [Read more...]

Filed Under: American Occupation, DVDs/Magazines/TV, General, Historic Figures, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

Cordillera People’s Flag – Igorot Autonomous Region – Northern Philippines

July 21, 2013 by MO1

Cordillera People's Flag - Igorot Autonomous Region - Northern Philippines Explanation of the flag The Cordillera people are 7 interior people native to Cordillera mountains which stretch from North Borneo all the way to Luzon Island. The flag has 8 lances: 7 which represent the 7 interior people and 1 which represents the Tagalog people. The flag is also used with the letters CPDF in black under the emblem when it is used as the flag of the Cordillera People's Democratic Front. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Ethno Linguistic Groups, Flags, General, Pre Colonial Philippines, Regional History

Documentary: Itinaga sa Bato – Baybayin Documentary written by Howie Severino and directed by Cris Sto. Domingo

July 21, 2013 by MO1

Documentary: Itinaga sa Bato - Baybayin Documentary written by Howie Severino and directed by Cris Sto. Domingo http://youtu.be/nk2SF81q7kY Part 1 http://youtu.be/HWmFhBlJLko Part 2 http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/227829/publicaffairs/iwitness/itinaga-sa-bato-documentary-by-howie-severino http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2010078/ Many Filipinos are in the dark about their pre-colonial past, or Philippine history before the Spaniards came. That past is coming to light with Amaya, the first prime-time teleserye about Philippine society and culture before Europeans knew these existed. But even that history is based on what Spanish chroniclers wrote about the islanders they called indios. A recently discovered stone may change all that. A doormat for many years outside a Masbate classroom, the stone slab was cleaned by school children, revealing beneath the hardened mud writing in the ancient Filipino script called baybayin. Is it really a window into our pre-colonial past, or simply the work of a more recent hobbyist? Howie Severino and his documentary team accompany scientists to Ticao Island in Masbate as they try to authenticate the stone's origins and unlock its secrets. What does the writing say? Their investigation leads Howie's team's to living baybayin writers in Manila trying to keep the ancient script alive, convinced that it is an essential element in Filipinos' modern identity and a way for them to stand tall in a globalizing world where many languages, and the cultures they represent, are vanishing. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Baybayin, Books & Film, DVDs/Magazines/TV, Ethno Linguistic Groups, General, Philippines Ethnic Groups, Pre Colonial Philippines, Videos

Book review: “Baybayin Atbp.: Mga Pag-aaral at Pagpapayaman ng Kulturang Pilipino” – Why is baybayin relevant today? Ime Morales

July 21, 2013 by MO1

Book review: Why is baybayin relevant today? Text and photo by IME MORALES If you think that baybayin, or the alibata, as it has come to be known in recent times, is simply our Filipino ancestors’ way of writing, then the contents of “Baybayin Atbp.: Mga Pag-aaral at Pagpapayaman ng Kulturang Pilipino” (Teresita B. Obusan, Raymond M. Cosare, and Minifred P. Gavino) will awaken your curiosity and, hopefully, your spirit. It is true, first of all, that baybayin is the indigenous writing form invented by our great grandfathers. But it is also true that it is much more than that. During a September 28 lecture organized by UP Tomo-Kai in Palma Hall, UP Diliman, social worker and writer Dr. Teresita B. Obusan said that the baybayin is a symbol of our culture and a means to study and understand mysticism. She explained, “We did not copy this. It was created by our ancestors and it becomes us.” In the booklet, which was printed earlier this year and written in the vernacular, she writes: “Baybayin is a gift from heaven, given to us through our ancestors; it is a legacy for the Filipino people... and it is our responsibility to take care of it and nurture it.” Article continues at: http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/278915/lifestyle/reviews/book-review-why-is-baybayin-relevant-today … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Baybayin, Books & Film, Ethno Linguistic Groups, Philippines Ethnic Groups, Pre Colonial Philippines, Regional History

Respecting the Grand Masters of the Warrior Arts in the Philippines by Jay Ignacio

July 3, 2013 by MO1

kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com

Respecting the Grand Masters of the Warrior Arts in the Philippines by Jay Ignacio Those who have seen The Bladed Hand would have understood that a lot of the Grand Masters in the Philippines are not well-off. They live in very tough conditions, some are employed for a paltry sum, and there are others who have no source of income other than when they have students to teach.Please be understanding when you approach them and do not ask for discounted rates, or take advantage of them by giving them empty promises of compensation or trips abroad.FMA may give some folks abroad a decent income, or even "street cred", but here in the Philippines, these Masters do not own gyms or schools or training facilities. They teach in public parks, or give private lessons at the students' homes.Pay them on time whatever rate you agreed on per session, and have the decency to acknowledge them for what they taught you. Pay, or at the very least, offer to pay them for their cab, or bus, or jeepney ride to meet up with you. Feed them as well, especially if ask to meet at a cafe or restaurant. Be mindful of the fact that photo ops with the Masters sometimes have consequences not favorable to them. Note that when you bug them to give you a certificate (when they normally don't because they have no registered business for their FMA system) for just a few days or hours of training, you are taking something away from them. There's just too much of this going around. A lot of them complain, but there is no avenue for them to adress any of their concerns. Sometimes they give in because they have no choice. It's a matter of understanding, and of respecting their intellectual property, among other things. http://youtu.be/2LK2SNOWqdI … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Kapisanang Mandirigma Member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses to teach at Jeff Speakman’s 5.0 Fighter Event, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. June 27-30 – 2013

June 26, 2013 by MO1

ariel flores mosses, kali, arnis, eskrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com, manaois escrima, speakman

Kapisanang Mandirigma Member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses to teach at Jeff Speakman’s 5.0 Fighter Event Kapisanang Mandirigma Member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses to teach at Jeff Speakman’s 5.0 Fighter Event Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. June 27-30 – 2013 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Laban Laro – Invitation Only Sparring, June 22nd. Aranda/Ricketts Memorial Gym

June 20, 2013 by MO1

Final Laban, GM Ricketts, PG Sulite, Guro Brandon Ricketts, Guro Dino Flores, Guro Bud Balani, Guro Ariel Flores Mosses, Ilustrisimo, Lameco, Bakbakan Philippines, Kali, Kalis, Arnis, Eskrima, Escrima,

Laban Laro - Invitation Only Sparring, June 22nd. Aranda/Ricketts Memorial Gym An Event Honoring the Sparring Tradition Founded by the Five Pillars of Ilustrisimo and the Original Bakbakan Philippines. Participating Organizations: Bakbakan Philippines - USA HQ, Ilustrisimo USA, Lameco SOG, Kapisanang Mandirigma. Event Supervised by: Guro Brandon Ricketts, Guro Bud Balani, Guro Ariel Flores Mosses, Guro Dino Flores. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Eskrima Tournament/Competition/Challenge, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Lameco Eskrima, Mandirigma.org, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes

Kapisanang Mandirigma presents an Introductory Course in Backyard Lameco Eskrima. JULY 14th till AUGUST 17th, 2013, Los Angeles, California.

June 20, 2013 by MO1

http://mandirigma.org/, http://backyardeskrima.com/, dino flores, guro dino flores, kali, kalis, arnis, eskrima, escrima, fma, lameco, ilustrisimo, sulite, ricketts, luzon, visayas, mindanao, kampilan, balisong, kris, rattan

Kapisanang Mandirigma presents an Introductory Course in Backyard Lameco Eskrima. JULY 14th until AUGUST 17th, 2013, Los Angeles, California. This course will introduce you to the the Foundations and Combat Applications of Lameco Eskrima, the Philippine Warrior Art System founded by Punong Guro Edgar Sulite. Class will focus on core Lameco “Eskrima Drills” and “Kali Drills”. Classes will be conducted primarily by Guro Dino Flores. Classes will be kept small in order to ensure quality instruction. This is a very rare opportunity. These classes are only held when time permits. This course also serves as a prerequisite to any future classes that are only open to members and individuals that have completed this course. For further course details go to: http://backyardeskrima.com and email us directly from the “Contact” page. Please give us a little background on yourself when requesting information. Maraming Salamat. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Lameco Eskrima, Mandirigma.org, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes

The FMA Informative publishes Master Tony Diego & Kalis Ilustrisimo Special Issue, March 2013

June 12, 2013 by MO1

master diego fma digest ilustrisimo kalis ilustrisimo eskrima escrima arnis

The FMA Informative publishes Master Tony Diego & Kalis Ilustrisimo Special Issue, March 2013 http://www.fmainformative.info/Informative_Issues/2013/FMA_Informative-Issue67.pdf http://www.fmainformative.info/Informative_Issues/past_informative-issues.html Informative Issue No #67 Kalis Ilustrisimo The FMA Informative publishes Master Tony Diego & Kalis Ilustrisimo Special Issue, March 2013 Master Antonio “Tony” Diego When Master Tony moved to Manila, he trained in the Balintawak style of Arnis with the Eskrimadors from Cebu while he was working at the docks and at the same time training with Berting Presas (Modern Arnis) in Quiapo, a district of Manila. Soon after, he met Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo in 1974. Tatang’s simple but ferocious style greatly impressed him. He then requested Tatang to teach him. At first Tatang would not teach Master Tony, explaining that it was only for his use alone! He said he remained undefeated because others do not know his style. Master Tony, far from being deterred, relentlessly pestered Tatang with attention and gifts until the old man finally agreed to teach him the ways of the blade. As a teacher of Eskrima, Master Tony has earned the highest reputation as a person and as an instructor. He fully believes that a student who learns the Ilustrisimo system should give credit where credit is due, and not to learn and then claim it or its derivatives as a personal innovation or declare it as coming from an imagined family tradition. Compared with Tatang, Tony teaches almost the same way with the exception that he has structured his instruction procedures into sets of techniques which make learning easier. This comes from having seen it from the student’s point of view. Tony has insisted on maintaining the purity of the system as Tatang taught it. The only change is the way the Ilustrisimo system is now taught in a structured sense, which Tatang did not. Any Questions Contact: Ms. Peachie Baron-Saguin at: peachiebaron@yahoo.com ———————— Kalis Ilustrisimo in its Pure Form Kalis Ilustrisimo in its pure form tries to maintain the life and death combative perspective and ex- presses this point of view in its techniques and their applications. There has been also a need to enter the Filipino martial arts world, which has a greater emphasis on the sports aspect. For this, Ilus- trisimo methods and techniques have perforce been modified in order to keep within the structure of the necessary constricting rules of sports. These rules are meant for the safety of participants and life and death combat movements are illegal. This is true for other ing, etc. Because of the greater emphasis on sports in the present Filipino martial arts community, students are more – keen on learn- ing techniques believing these will enhance their skill and their chances of winning competitions. In contrast, instruction in Ilustri- simo is based on the foundational combat philosophy of Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo when teach- ing the techniques and their appli- cation. This point of view delin- eates objectives which give rise to the movements or techniques necessary to achieve such objec- The original main objective of Tatang’s fighting system is win- ning in battle and coming out of it alive and unhurt. For this, a flexi- ble fighting capability is necessary. Thus the Ilustrisimo system has a varied set of techniques which are effective at various distances and with various weapons all the way to empty hands. In using Kalis Ilustrisimo they use what one would call fraction (Master strikes at the student according to numbers). The Master strikes the student first countering the strikes one through twelve strikes, Abierta: Compared with Tatang, Master Tony teaches almost the same way with the exception that he has structured his instruction procedures into sets of techniques which make learning easier. This comes from having seen it from the student’s point of view. Master Tony has insisted on maintaining the purity of the system as Tatang taught it. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Books & Film, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Kapisanang Mandirigma Spain

June 11, 2013 by MO1

Spain Eskrima School kali arnis escrima kalis fma ilustrisimo lameco ricketts sulite

Kapisanang Mandirigma Spain Representative Tim B. Fredianelli is the Kapisanang Mandirigma Spain Representative. He is in the process of obtaining his Level One Trainer Credentials. He can be contacted at: tim.fredianelli@facebook.com +++++++++++++++++++ About Tim B. Fredianelli: Tim B. Fredianelli is Assistant Instructor iin Jeet Kune Do under Sifu Tim Tackett and Sifu Bob Bremmer, Certified Knife Expert under Hock Hocheim, 2ºdan Black Belt in Kick Boxing, was a senior member of the Instituto de Kali Jun Fan in Madrid for 11 years training in Inosanto Kali and Muay Thai, and Wing Chung, Jun Fan and Jeet Kune Do. Has more than 25 years of experience in martial arts. Was the first to train and promote Lameco and Kalis Ilustrisimo in Spain, and has been promoting and training Lameco and Kalis Ilustrisimo since 2003. He now trains a small group of dedicated students in all these arts. http://www.kali-jeetkunedo.com/7instructor.html … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Lameco Eskrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Imprinting Andres Bonifacio: The Iconization from Portrait to Peso by The Malacañan Palace Library

June 9, 2013 by MO1

Imprinting Andres Bonifacio: The Iconization from Portrait to Peso by The Malacañan Palace Library The face of the Philippine revolution is evasive, just like the freedom that eluded the man known as its leader. The only known photograph of Andres Bonifacio is housed in the Archivo General de Indias in Seville, Spain. Some say that it was taken during his second wedding to Gregoria de Jesus in Katipunan ceremonial rites. It is dated 1896 from Chofre y Cia (precursor to today’s Cacho Hermanos printing firm), a prominent printing press and pioneer of lithographic printing in the country, based in Manila. The faded photograph, instead of being a precise representation of a specific historical figure, instead becomes a kind of Rorschach test, liable to conflicting impressions. Does the picture show the President of the Supreme Council of the Katipunan as a bourgeois everyman with nondescript, almost forgettable features? Or does it portray a dour piercing glare perpetually frozen in time, revealing a determined leader deep in contemplation, whose mind is clouded with thoughts of waging an armed struggle against a colonial power? Perhaps a less subjective and more fruitful avenue for investigation is to compare and contrast this earliest documented image with those that have referred to it, or even paid a curious homage to it, by substantially altering his faded features. This undated image of Bonifacio offers the closest resemblance to the Chofre y Cia version. As attested to by National Scientist Teodoro A. Agoncillo and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, it is the image that depicts the well-known attribution of Bonifacio being of sangley (or Chinese) descent. While nearly identical in composition with the original, this second image shows him with a refined–even weak–chin, almond-shaped eyes, a less defined brow, and even modified hair. The blurring of his features, perhaps the result of the image being timeworn, offers little room for interjection. In contrast, the next image dating from a February 8, 1897 issue of La Ilustración Española y Americana, a Spanish-American weekly publication, features a heavily altered representation of Bonifacio at odds with the earlier depiction from Chofre y Cia. This modification catered to the Castilian idea of racial superiority, and to the waning Spanish Empire’s shock–perhaps even awe?–over what they must have viewed at the time as indio impudence. Hence the Bonifacio in this engraving is given a more pronounced set of features–a more prominent, almost ruthless jawline, deep-set eyes, a heavy, furrowed brow and a proud yet incongruously vacant stare. Far from the unassuming demeanor previously evidenced, there is an aura of unshakable, even obstinate, determination surrounding the revolutionary leader who remained resolute until his last breath. Notice also that for the first (although it would not be the last) time, he is formally clad in what appears to be a three-piece suit with a white bowtie–hardly the dress one would expect, given his allegedly humble beginnings. Given its printing, this is arguably the first depiction of Bonifacio to be circulated en masse. The same image appeared in Ramon Reyes Lala’s The Philippine Islands, which was published in 1899 by an American publishing house for distribution in the Philippines. The records of both the Filipinas Heritage Library and the Lopez Museum reveal a third, separate image of Bonifacio which appears in the December 7, 1910 issue of El Renacimiento Filipino, a Filipino publication during the early years of the American occupation. El Renacimiento Filipino portrays an idealized Bonifacio, taking even greater liberties with the Chofre y Cia portrait. There is both gentrification and romanticization at work here. His receding hairline draws attention to his wide forehead–pointing to cultural assumptions of the time that a broad brow denotes a powerful intellect–and his full lips are almost pouting. His cheekbones are more prominent and his eyes are given a curious, lidded, dreamy, even feminine emphasis, imbuing him with an air of otherworldly reserve–he appears unruffled and somber, almost languid: more poet than firebrand. It is difficult to imagine him as the Bonifacio admired, even idolized, by his countrymen for stirring battle cries and bold military tactics. He is clothed in a similar fashion to the La Ilustración Española y Americana portrait: with a significant deviation that would leave a telltale mark on succeeded images derived from this one. Gone is the white tie (itself an artistic assumption when the original image merely hinted at the possibility of some sort of neckwear), and in its stead, there is a sober black cravat and even a corsage on the buttonhole of his coat. Here the transformation of photograph to engraving takes an even more curious turn; as … [Read more...]

Filed Under: General, Historic Figures, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

Origin of the Symbols of the Philippine National Flag by The Malacañan Palace Library

June 9, 2013 by MO1

Origin of the Symbols of the Philippine National Flag by The Malacañan Palace Library Aside from the Masonic influence on the Katipunan, the design of the Philippine flag has roots in the flag family to which it belongs—that of the last group of colonies that sought independence from the Spanish Empire at the close of the 19th century, a group to which the Philippines belongs. The Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office traces the origins of the Philippine flag’s design elements, which have been in use since General Emilio Aguinaldo first conceived them—the stars and stripes; the red, white, and blue; the masonic triangle; and the sun—and have endured since. Source: http://malacanang.gov.ph/3846-origin-of-the-symbols-of-our-national-flag/ … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Flags, General, Insignia, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

The FMA Informative publishes Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts Memorial Seminar Special Issue, March 2013

June 5, 2013 by MO1

The FMA Informative publishes Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts Memorial Seminar Special Issue, March 2013 The FMA Informative was very lucky to be able through the cooperation of Guro Dino Flores to be able to bring just a hint of the knowledge that was put forth and the skills that were demonstrated on March 16 and 17, 2013. At the Lameco S.O.G and Kali Ilustrisimo Memorial Seminar the instructors were the dedicated instructors of Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts. They were: Guro Dino Flores, Guro Bud Balani, Guro David Gould, Guro Bong Hebia, Guro Ariel Flores Mosses, and the son of Master Christopher Ricketts Guro Brandon Ricketts. First you will read about the participant Dr. Bryan Stoops reflections on his experience in the 12 Week Backyard Lameco Eskrima course and the 2 day Lameco S.O.G and Ilustrisimo Eskrima Seminar. Then on another aspect Guro David Gould his thoughts on the 2nd Lameco Eskrima “SOG” Memorial Seminar held in Los Angeles, California. Visit www.fmainformative.info and download a copy. Download a copy - www.fmainformative.info/Informative_Issues/2013/FMA_Informative-Issue68.pdf … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Books & Film, Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Interviews, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Lameco Eskrima, Mandirigma.org, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

SEMINARIO DE “LAMECO ESKRIMA” CON EL RECONOCIDO ARTISTA MARCIAL GURO DAVE GOULD!! EN TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, CHIAPAS, JUNIO 29 Y 30

May 28, 2013 by MO1

SEMINARIO DE "LAMECO ESKRIMA" CON EL RECONOCIDO ARTISTA MARCIAL GURO DAVE GOULD!! EN TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, CHIAPAS, JUNIO 29 Y 30 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Lameco Eskrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Filipino American Museum of Culture & History Presents – THE INOSANTO STORY. JUNE 1, 2013. Los Angeles

May 28, 2013 by MO1

Guro Dan Inosanto Story JKD Kali Arnis Eskrima

Filipino American Museum of Culture & History Presents - THE INOSANTO STORY. JUNE 1, 2013. Los Angeles FMA Enthusiasts! Here's a fund-raising event that not only showcases our pride in Filipino culture and history but also helps to build handicap access for the Filipino Disciples Christian Church. Dress: Business casual R.S.V.P. by phone or email A.S.A.P followed up by payment. Last year they had to turn people away because there wasn't enough room or food for them. The absolute latest they can receive payment and an R.S.V.P. is May 22nd. If anyone is interested in putting together a display table for their FMA, etc. they can contact Lorna (see below for contact info). To R.S.V.P., call or email: Lorna Dumapias (213) 379-6456 lorna.dumapias7@gmail.com Checks or money orders should be made payable to: Filipino American Museum of Culture & History And checks / money orders can be sent to: Lorna Dumaplas P.O. Box 71372, Los Angeles, CA. 90071 Here's more info about the event: Other highlights of this special event: Guru Dan mentions a historical footnote in his promotion of traditional Filipino martial arts - kali and escrima: that the art was mainly perpetuated through dance -- while plotting a revolution against 300 years rule by Spain. A traditional Filipino folk-dance will be performed during the Filipino meal--you will recognize some of the foot, hand and arm movements! Demonstration of kali and escrima will follow the folk-dance on stage. Our social hall has a permanent History Photo Gallery which features Guru Dan's mother and father, as well as Guru Dan. (Guru Dan taught Sunday School to our church's college-age group in the 1960's which is his affiliation with our church--to date, the only Historic-Cultural monument/landmark of Filipino- American origin proclaimed by the City of Los Angeles. In addition, a special photo exhibit about the Inosanto family will be on display. There will also be a table displaying information/activities about the Inosanto Academy and Guru Dan's coming seminars, etc, as well as about the schedule of classes, activities and coming seminars, etc. of Diana Lee Inosanto and Ron Balicki. Because both Guru Dan and his daughter Diana Lee, have always been supportive of preserving and promoting traditional Filipino martial arts as well as other disciplines such as JKD, etc. we invite the martial arts community to participate. We offer the following: Your group's tax-deductible donation of five tickets at $20 each (could be aggregate of individual check or money order payments) = leader's name with group/studio name listed on printed program as a "Friend of the Museum". Reservations/payment(s) may be sent payable to the Filipino American Museum of Culture & History and mail to Lorna Dumapias, P.O. Box 71372, Los Angeles, CA. 90071. Ten tickets = listing on printed program and on press releases slated for distribution May 15, and inclusion in a display table(s) promoting martial arts community, where you can promote your specific programs/studio. (We reserve the right to select final display -- no weapons or inappropriate content allowed. No actual selling.) Our book titled "Filipino-American Experience: the Making of a Historic-Cultural Monument", a coffee table publication in glossy, landscape style format which includes the Inosanto Story written by Guru Dan's niece, Dr. Celeste Howe, be will be offered at a discount to the martial arts community, seniors and students with school ID. Because we must know actual number of attendees as soon as possible for seating arrangements due to limited room capacity as well as to help us confirm our order with the restaurant catering the meal, we would appreciate your prompt response. Thanks for your participation! We hope to see you soon! Best, Lorna Dumapias, Volunteer Curator/Director Filipino American Museum of Culture & History 213/379-6456 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Regional History, Seminars/Classes

Pre-Standardized Philippine Flag by Ambeth R. Ocampo

May 16, 2013 by MO1

Before the Philippine flag was standardized into the form we know today, the sun had a human face and eight rays that differed depending on who made it. The sun in the flag also appeared as: seals, stamps, and logos on official communications. I'm not sure if this is a stamp for postage, revenue, or documentary tax. Ambeth R. Ocampo … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Flags, General, Insignia, Philippine American War, Philippine Revolution, Regional History, Spanish Occupation, The Katipunan

Protected: Member Equipment List

April 25, 2013 by MO1

This post is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password: … [Read more...]

Filed Under: General, Member Area Tagged With: Member Equipment List

Guro Bill Aranda – A True Warrior’s Path – January 22, 1947 – April 12, 2013

April 15, 2013 by MO1

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Guro Bill Aranda - A True Warrior's Path Guro Billʼs involvement in the Filipino Martial Art (FMA) has spanned a period of over 6 decades. He has been studing and researcing this complete, ethnically Filipino, fighting art with masters and guros of Kali, Escrima, & Arnis from both the Philippines & the USA since the summer of 1962. His years of training has familiarized him in the use of single & double, equal & unequal length, rigid & flexible, bladed & impact weapons, and in the Filipino empty hand art of bunoan (grappling), suntukan (boxing), & sipaan (kicking). Today he continues to actively promote the art through individual & group classes and public seminars & demonstrations. His years of practice has led him to see this simple, direct, & intuitive art not just as the fighting art that it is, but also as a path for personal growth (physical, mental, emotional, & spiritual) that can be taught & practiced by all people regardless of sex, age, nationality, and martial arts background. It is his hope that through the FMA, people will develop an appreciation for All Things Filipino (ATF) - especially its culture and history. Training Guro Bill has trained with many different teachers specializing not only in the FMA, but also in other weapon and empty hand based martial arts through training seminars & classes given on an individual & group basis, in a formal & informal environment, using structured & unstructured teaching methodology. Through the years his training progressed through different phases. From the early 60s thru the 80s, the conscious effort was on learning the lessons taught by his instructors (the how & when phase). On the 90s, learning continued with an emphasis on understanding the lessons (the what & why phase). From the beginning of the millennium to the present, the learning & understanding was augmented with extracting the essence of the lessons using the Lee methodology. The many instructors who have served as a guide and influence in Guro Billʼs personal growth as a martial artist and to whom he will be forever grateful, include the following: Core • Guro Mike Barairo, Private Individual Training Makati, Philippines Eskrima, Arnis, Judo, & Boxing • Guro Dan Inosanto, Formal Group Classes Kali Academy of America, Torrance, CA Leo Giron System (Arnis), & Angel Cabales System (Eskrima), Villabrille/Largusa System (Kali), John La Coste System (Kali), Pekiti Tirsia (Eskrima) Inosanto Academy, Culver City, CA Leo Giron System (Arnis), & Angel Cabales System (Eskrima), Villabrille/Largusa System (Kali), John La Coste System (Kali), Sikaran, Western Boxing, Wing Chun, Jun Fan Gung Fu, Tai Chi Kali-Eskrima-Silat/JunFan Martial Arts Academy, Marina Del Rey, CA Leo Giron System (Weapon All Ranges), Angel Cabales System (Weapon Corto Range), Villabrille/Largusa System (Weapon & Empty Hands Training Methods & all Ranges), John La Coste System (Weapon, Empty Hand, & Kicking Ranges), Western Boxing (Empty Hands w/o Reference Points), JunFan Gung Fu (Energy Drills, Chinese Boxing, Trapping, & Attacking Concepts), Silat (Leveraging Concepts), Doce Pares System (Uneven Length Weapon), Siniwali (Equal Length Weapon), Capoera (Brazilian Kick Boxing), Savate (French Kick Boxing), Muay Thai (Thai Kick Boxing), Cinco Teros System (Long Range), Suntukan/Sikaran (Filipino Kick Boxing), Carenza, Numerado, & Sumbrada (Filipino Training Methods), with special emphasis on proper body mechanics, fighting ranges, rhythm, & timing • Guro Pete BatungBakal, Private Individual Training Makati, Philippines • Arnis, Tabak Toyok, Japanese Sai & Staff; through this teacher Guro Bill met GM Porfiro Lanada of the Lanada System • Guro Chris Kent, Formal Group Classes Kali-Eskrima-Silat/JunFan Martial Arts Academy, Marina Del Rey, CA Inosanto Blended System using impact & bladed weapons, empty hands, and kick boxing • Guro Ted LucayLucay, Formal Group Classes Kali-Eskrima-Silat/JunFan Martial Arts Academy, Marina Del Rey, CA Inosanto Blended System plus the LucayLucay Kali/JKD System of Panantukan/Sikaran, Knife Fighting, tabak maliit • GM Topher Ricketts, Private Individual/Group Training Glendale FMA Academy, Glendale, CA Ilustrisimo (Eskrima, Kali), Sagasa (Filipino Karate), Ngo Cho Kun (Beng Kiam Kung Fu), Boxing, Hand Sparring Other • Guro Richard Bustillo, Inosanto Blended System • Guro Jeff Imada, Inosanto Blended System • Master Fernando Bernardo, Scientific Lightning Arnis • Guro Louis Campos, Pentjak Silat Serak & Bukti Negara • GM Bobby Taboada, Balintawak Arnis Cuentada • Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, LAMECO Eskrima • Pendekar Guru Besar Herman Suwanda, Pencak Silat Mande Muda • GM Leo Giron/Master Tony Somera, Bahala Na Arnis/ Eskrima • GM Dionisio Canete, Doce Pares Eskrima • Guro … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, IN MEMORY OF, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Masters and Guros

Guro Dave Gould Lameco Seminar. Cuernavaca, Mexico. February 16th & 17th, 2013

January 28, 2013 by MO1

Guro Dave Gould Lameco Seminar. Cuernavaca, Mexico. February 16th & 17th, 2013 For More Information: combatacademy.central@gmail.com Eduardo Herrera 777 254 58 35 … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Lameco Eskrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Guro John Jacobo Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar. Humble, Texas. February 18th & 19th, 2012.

January 28, 2013 by MO1

kali ilustrisimo seminar kali arnis escrima eskrima kali ilustrisimo seminar kali arnis escrima eskrima

Guro John Jacobo Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar. Humble, Texas. February 18th & 19th, 2013. For more information: http://www.swacom.com/ … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Am 15.05.2013 war es soweit. Der philippinische Kampfkunstmeister Dino Flores aus den USA

January 15, 2013 by MO1

http://judo-club-limburg.de/kampfkunst-highlieght-in-limburg.html \ Kampfkunst Highlight in Limburg Am 15.05.2013 war es soweit. Der philippinische Kampfkunstmeister Dino Flores aus den USA besuchte die Modern-Arnis Gruppe des Judo Club Limburg, um seine Spezialitäten - Kalis ilustrisimo und Lameco Eskrima vorzustellen. Sowohl Kalis ilustrisimo als auch Lameco Eskrima sind Kampfkünste, die in Deutschland nur schwer zu finden sind. Dementsprechend groß war die Vorfreude auf das Seminar. Guro Dino Flores verstand es, die Teilnehmer mit seinen kurzen und schnellen Schwerttechniken sowie seiner Präzision zu beeindrucken. Wir freuen uns auf einen weiteren Besuch von Guro Dino Flores in Limburg, vielleicht im nächsten Jahr. Externe Teilnehmer sind zu den Seminaren des Judo Club Limburg immer recht herzlich eingeladen. Das Modern Arnis Training findet jeweils mittwochs von 20 Uhr - 22 Uhr in der Heinz-Wolf-Halle in Limburg statt und ist für Frauen und Männer ab 16 Jahren gleichermaßen geeignet. Eine neue Anfängergruppe startet ab sofort. Interessenten sind hierzu herzlich eingeladen. … [Read more...]

Filed Under: Classes and Seminars, Filipino Martial Arts, FMA, General, Ilustrisimo, Kali Arnis Eskrima Escrima, Lameco Eskrima, Masters and Guros, Seminars/Classes, Warrior Arts of the Philippines