FMA Informative Issue No #187

Informative Issue No. 187 2015

Celestino C. Macachor and Ned R. Nepangue, M.D. The FMA Informative would like to personally thank Mr. Celestino Macachor, for all the information and assis- New Theories on the Origins of Eskrima - Celestino Macachor tance that was provided for this issue. Interview with Celestino C. Macachor The FMA Informative representative met Ned Nepangue in 2008 while in Manila, Philippines and there Ned Nepangue Points out Some Facts on Kali was just a little conversation about a few things, due to time restraints. Mr. Nepangue was a very busy person researching some new material for the future. However the FMA Informative while visiting the Philippines in March of 2015 and in Cebu, was very fortunate to get to meet and talk with Celestino Macachor. It was an honor to finally meet with the co-author of Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth. To start the issue from Mr. Macachor the article “New Theories on the Origins of Eskrima”. Which was published in Rapid Journal who granted the FMA Informative permission to re-publish it. Next the FMA Informative representative was able to talk and discuss somethings with Mr. Macachor on the subject of the Filipino martial arts about the past, present and future. And also to ask a few questions about the book “Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth.” The final article is by Ned Nepangue which points out some facts on Kali. Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth (a video digest) Click Here What is really misunderstood and repugnant for the Cebuano martial artists, is the way throughout the world it A short video synopsis of the book Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth is believed that the Filipino martial arts is basically of a Moro origin. That is far from the truth. written by Dr. Ned R.A. Nepangue and Celestino C. Macachor. The book “Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth” – authored by Ned R. Nepangue, M.D. and Celestino C. Macachor is a must have book, if interested or wanting to know about the Filipino martial arts. Basically about Cebuano Eskrima it takes away a lot of fictional stories and brings facts to the table.

Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth boldly unravels with compelling and provocative hypothesis on the Hispanic origins of the Filipino Martial Arts known as eskrima, arnis and estokada. The authors present prima facie evidence on the fraud of the supposedly precursor art called kali. A more plausible theory on the origins of eskrima are presented in star- tling detail from its early beginnings as a defense against Moro pirates and slave traders and its later fusion with Spanish fencing through the Jesuit warrior priests during the pivotal years 1635-1644, the height of Spanish rapier fencing in Europe during the Renaissance. It also presents a comprehensive chronology on the development of eskri- ma in Cebu, a meticulous commentary of Cebuano pioneers and innova- Celestino C. Macachor - Eric Olavides - Lito Gabuya - Ned R. Nepangue tors of eskrima and elucidates the pre-eminence of Visayans in the art of eskrima / arnis / estokada. Each issue features practitioners of martial arts and other internal arts, other features include historical, theo- retical and technical articles; reflections, Filipino martial arts, healing arts, the culture of the Philippines and other As both authors are practitioners of this martial art, technicalities in es- related subjects. krima never before detailed in other materials on the subject are carefully The authors, publisher and owner of this online magazine are not responsible for any injury, which may result discussed in the book. from the instructions contained in this online magazine. Before embarking on any of the physical activates described in To Order Visit: the magazine, the reader should consult his or her physician for advice regarding their individual suitability for per- Xibris - Click Here forming such activity. Amazon.com - Click Here The ideas and opinions expressed in the FMA Informative online magazine are those of the authors or instruc- tors being interviewed and are not necessarily the views of the publisher, editor or owner of the FMA Informative. The Barnes & Noble - Click Here articles are the property of the author’s that wrote them and cannot be used without the permission of the author. AbeBooks.com - Click Here The FMA Informative is for the promulgation and promotion of the Filipino martial arts and the Culture of the Philippines. NO issue can be printed and Sold for Monies, without the express permission of the Owner and Publisher BAM Books - Click Here of the FMA Informative. Rakuten.com - Click Here In 2001 Celestino Macachor submit- were spoken by each generation to en as irrefutable historical fact in Stone by Fr. Pedro G. Galende, ted his article, “New Theories on the Origins the following generation. Legends written in textbooks and taught in OSA are these stories: of Eskrima,” to the Rapid Journal magazine, change with each telling because all our schools. There is now an 1.1 Moalboal - Southwest Cebu a magazine that was published in the Philip- often the teller’s memory is weak overwhelming archaeological/doc- Coast pines. or mistaken- or the teller just wants umentary evidence presented by Mr. Macachor article which was pub- to make additions to the story to credible historians, anthropologists This story is probably the lished in three parts, in the Rapid Journal a Fil- spice it up. Legends are usually and archaeologists of Agusan del first historical account on the use ipino magazine for (Research and Propagation nothing more than stories about the Norte that proves the First Mass of canes and Latin Oracion against for Internal Arts Development), which came creation of the world, the first man was in fact celebrated in Masau - Moro Invaders and the signifi- out in the following issues Volume 6 Number. and woman and such. It is easy to present day Butuan City. cant contribution of Bohol style 2 through Volume 6 Number 4. Vol6 No2 Vol6 No3 Vol6 No4 see that they are not meant to be Like the Limasawa story, Eskrima to the Cebuano martial In part one Mr. Macachor presented his new theories on the origins of Eskrima which he claimed began regarded as fact. However, there Philippine history is replete with arts. Again, I would like to reiter- with the conquest of the Spanish conquistadors in the Philippines during the 16th century. are some legends which do contain fake stories and fantasies concoct- ate that the writers belong to the In part two was a continuation of the saga on the history of Eskrima according to the research of the long a kernel of truth.” ed by self-serving politicians es- mainstream academe and were in time Arnis practitioner. pecially the ruling elite of Manila no way involved in the research of There is no truth to the sto- Filipino martial arts history. And finally part three and the final installment of the origin of Eskrima, which also mentions the import- ry of the ten datus of Borneo. This and other vested interest groups. ant contributions of Spanish fencers to the art of Filipino Eskrima. was proven a fraud in a research This will go on while there are still Here are parts of “New Theories on the Origins of Eskrima.” made in 1968 by historian William scams like the textbook bribery scandal in 1998 involving Mary Note: To get the full story you can order the issues from the Rapid Journal, ordering information will be at the Henry Scott that exposed author Jose Marco’s fabrication on the Ann Maslog. end of this article. Even the though the Rapid Journal is no longer in circulation the issues that were published Finding physical /archaeo- are still available. story of Fr. Jose Maria Pavon the supposed discoverer of the Code of logical evidence to determine the Maragtas. Scott further revealed in exact origins of the Filipino Mar- his book Pre-Hispanic Source Ma- tial Arts is a very remote possibil- terials for the Study of Philippine ity, nevertheless, we can collate History. a wealth of information from the academe and other reliable sources “Jose E. Marco’s contributions to to piece together our theory that: Philippine historiography ap- pear to be deliberate fabrications Theory 1. with no historic validity. There is Contrary to popular belief therefore no present evidence that that it is pre-Hispanic, Eskrima any Filipino ruler by the name of / Arnis / Estokada is a relative- Kalantiaw ever existed or that the ly new Martial Art and did not “Oral tradition relates that Bo- Kalantiaw penal code is any older precede the arrival of the Span- holano pioneers founded the town than 1914.” ish conquistadors and developed of Moalboal. A substantiation of Unsettling as it may be mainly in the coastal towns of this contention is that its leading for some Filipino ethnic group, Cebu, Siquijor, Bohol, Negros, families - the Gadors, Cabarons, but with the advent of informa- Leyte, Panay and coastal towns Bableras, Redobles and many more New Theories on the Origins of Eskrima tion revolution, as quickly as it is of Luzon like Pangasinan, and - came from Bohol. Another fact is to spread lies and fabrications it Pampanga that became a favorite that many residents, especially the predatory ground for marauding Regional ethnic pride seems to be combat known as Kali. Congru- about events which, according is also as quick to debunk them older ones, still speak with Bohola- Moro pirates. From a retreating the biggest obstacle in acquiring ent to the theory on Kali as the to them, occurred before there with serious hard work, patience, no accent. and defensive mode, the early Vi- an unbiased historically correct ac- progenitor of Eskrima / Arnis are were Spaniards in the Philippines methodical research and a passion The first Boholano to settle sayans shifted strategies that once count on the origins and evolution the hoaxes and fabrications on the while there are almost no known for historical accuracy. Such is in the town was Laurente Sabanal. relied on Cottas to more aggres- of Eskrima. The Ilonggos in West Code of Maragtas and Kalantiaw. authentic written documents from the story of the First Mass in the He was captured by the Span- sive offensive tactics. Visayas insist on the story of the In his article Maragtas and Kalan- that era? Much of what we know Island of Limasawa, Leyte that iards in Bohol for having killed a Extracted from Cebu in ten Datus of Borneo that is wide- tiaw - History, Legend or Fraud?, about the pre-Hispanic era came until the overthrow of Marcos and guardia civil. But he later escaped Legend and History by Evange- ly believed to have brought with Paul Morrow wrote: to us through legends. These are to appease her flamboyant First on a rowboat to Cebu. He chose line Lavilles de Paula and Angels them an ancient form of bladed “How do historians know stories that were not written but Lady a native of Leyte, was tak- Moalboal as his new home, having found the land fertile and the sea according to Blair and Robertson, of strategy and Martial Arts against would raid and seize properties, meticulous recruitment by the first name for Zamboanga, and abundant with fish. He lived alone some 800 Bantayanons were taken marauding Moro pirates and proba- food, and even people. But Solfe- Spaniards was intended to match from this station he soon reduced for a while, but he later returned as captive and sold as slaves to bly the importation Leyte Eskrima rino Borinaga was an exceptional the skills of the Moro warriors. the towns of Caldera and Balva- to his native town and brought rich Mindanao Muslims. A second to Cebu: leader, not only good in organizing, The only bridge to a cultural gan. back with him his family and church was again erected and was but an expert in the art of battle. and language barrier among this After Captain de Chaves’ some relatives to immigrate to his again put on fire by the marauding Together with only a few men, they mixture of Visayans and Capam- force of 300 well-armed Spaniards new-found home. Expectedly, he Moros. did not only defend their village pangans was their mutual hatred and 1000 Visayans had cleared the became the ruler of the settlement. The stone church as we successfully, but they also mounted of Moros and the cross-pollination peninsula temporarily of hostile The Muslims also direct- now see is the third church erect- offensive attacks on the veteran of combat skills. Chapter 9 of Vic Moros, the construction of one of ed their raids at Moalboal, being ed. Construction of this church sea warriors, fighting them face Hurley’s Swiss of the Kris recalls the finest forts in the East was put already a prosperous settlement. began on 1839 and completed on to face. Surprisingly defeated, the accurately the recruitment of into execution. On June 23, 1635, But led by Sabanal, the inhabitants year 1863. It was Fr. Doroteo An- Moros fled and never disturbed the Pampango, Cebuano and Ilong- the foundations of the grand for- successfully repulsed the invaders. drada del Rosario who built this village again. go conscripts during the admin- tress of Nuestra Senora del Pilar They attributed their victory to church with a tall belfry and tall News of unprecedented istration of Governor General was laid by Father Vera, engineer Sabanal’s oracion. When he died, walls that surround the plaza. victory over the Moros spread and Sebastian Hurtado de Corcuera to of the Spanish army.” it is said that he was buried by the Fr. Del Rosario being soon many went to Palawan to fight against the Moros of Sulu. The year 1635 had wit- shore marked by his magic cane. aware of the Moro attack built settle there permanently. It grew Hurley credited Corcuera as the nessed the arrival in Manila of a To this day, a part of it could still several lookout towers. The into a town and quite naturally, it most successful Governor General very efficient Governor-General be seen. In his honor, the people towers were located at Balwarte was Solferino Borinaga who was during the Spanish colonial period and a perfect soldier. The coming named a street along the shore.” (Suba, Bantayan), Do-ong Island, its first capitan.” to have successfully contained the of Don Sebastian Hurtado de Cor- Bantigue, Kabac, Daan Patio Moros of Sulu. Here are some 1.2 Spanish Period - Bantayan Theory 2. cuera marked a period of success Islands (Madridejos), Kaongkod (Ma- excerpts of Chapter 9 to support for the Spanish arms which was The Province of Cebu dridejos), Tamiao, Ocoy (Sta. Fe), our theory: not to be equaled again until the Kinatarcan Island, which Visayan “tree houses” for defense. stretching from Bantayan Islands Cota (Sta. Fe) and Sulangan. Of “After due preparation, an expedi- mighty soldier Juan Arolas arrived belongs to the Bantayan group of From Alcina’s 1688 Hisoria de laz in the North to Santander in the these towers, only Bantigue and tionary force under the command 250 years later. Islands, is the birthplace of GM islas e indios de las Bisayas South became the focal point in Sulangan have no ruins. To serve of Captain Juan de Chaves landed Whatever Corcuera’s emo- Floro Villabrille and GM Antonio the development of Eskrima and as signal of the incoming attack “In search for a better place to live at Zamboanga on April 6, 1635. tions as he gazed down the valley Ilustrisimo. A colleague Juris Fer- that its development and tactical each tower is equipped with virso in, a family from Cabalian Leyte There de Chaves founded the town to the horde of brown kris men nandez who comes from Doong Is- use outlived the Moro raiders. The (a canon like cylinder wherein crossed the Visayan sea to a nearby of Bagumbayan, which was the waiting to resist him, there can be land told us about his Great Grand- Art of Eskrima was also effective explosives were set to make a very island and they became the nucleus no question as to his valor. At a father Tata Lucio Pastor who is against Spanish and American col- loud noise). If one tower sees the of a settlement in Cebu which grew flourish of a mailed fist, the Span- one of the longest living Eskrima- onizers and also against the Japa- incoming invaders, they would into a town. Solferino Borinaga ish plumes disappeared into the dor of the island. Tata Lucio Pastor nese invaders. More heroic stories make a signal. The next tower was attracted by the fertile soil and wave of Moros. who lived up to 106 years old used upon hearing the signal would in the rich fishing grounds of a place of the coastal towns in Cebu from bakhaw a fire hardened wood cut turn fire their virso and so with called Palawan. It was so named Evangeline Lavilles de Paula’s We are indebted to Father Crevas from mangroves as fighting stick. the next towers, a chain explosion as there was a spring (Palawan in book: Cebu in Legend and History: for an account of this campaign. The lineage of Tata Lucio Pastor’s From him we learn that Corcuera, is achieved until the signal would the dialect) in the area. He brought Theory 4. Eskrima is untraceable but the reach the town proper. The church his wife Alejandra and son Mar- with a squadron of small vessels fact remains that his Eskrima is bells would then ring the bells to tin. Since life seemed much better Arnis in Luzon particulary and a dozen flat boats, entered the indigenous to the island of Doong warn the populace about the in- in their new home, Solferino went in the province of Pampanga blos- river, defying Correlat. “The forces and that it was probably developed coming attack and prepare for the back to his native town and en- somed at the same time as Eskrima which he had were five compa- to repulse superior weaponry and said attack while the olds, woman couraged his relatives and friends in the Visayas during the adminis- nies; his own of 150 men, those martial skills. and children are cloistered to the to immigrate to Palawan. A group tration of Governor General Sebas- of Captain Nicholas Gonzalez and “The Parish of Bantayan was confines of the tall walls surround- - about ten families - went with tian Hurtado de Corcuera. Lorenzo Orella de Ugalde of 100 then under the direct control and ing the church.” him. Together, they organized into 4.1 The Filipino Martial Arts men each; another company of sailors; another of Pampangos; all supervision of the Archdiocese of 1.3 Pilar, Camotes Island, Cebu a barrio. that we know today was a deadly Manila. Fr. de Ocampos then, built chemistry of Macabebe, Cebuano, the rest were rabble and pioneers. The inhabitants - prosper- Governor General Sebastian Hurtado a church made of nipa and bam- The next story from ous as they were - were objects of Ilonggo and other Visayan Martial The same day he reached the river, Lavilles de Paula recalls another de Corcuera - was he the father of the he entered, with seventy men, the boo. This church was put on torch forays by Moro pirates. Discover- Arts. These diverse ethnic groups Filipino martial arts? by the Moro raiders in 1600, when vivid historical account on the use ing the new colony, the Muslims became brothers in arms and their court of Correlat, defended by more than two thousand armed during his Mindanao campaign. - One fifth of the spoil taken tucked his cassock about his waist “That year of 1634 was so quiet The besieged, seeing that the fire Moros.” 4.2 From another source Complete from the Moros belong to the and plunged into the thickest of the and so barren of events worthy of had caught the timber-work [of the As we consider the caliber Sinawali by Reynaldo Galang, he King. battle. The Cebuanoes(sic) per- remembrance that I shall not dwell fort], and that they were being in- of the men who opposed Corcuera wrote: - All Visayans engaged to be formed prodigies of valor and Jolo long upon it; for there is nothing evitably killed without any chance exempt from the payment of all fell again. The seat of the Sultanate of which I have heard to detain to defend themselves, displayed a that day, we wonder how he kept “A royal decree in 1636 ordered his small company from being tribute while engaged in the exter- was removed across the island to me, unless it be the raid of the signal for surrender, and in fact did the “pacification”of the island of mination of the Moros. Maybun, and the Moros paid reg- Mindanao enemy into the island so. overwhelmed. The Spaniards had Mindanao. Two large companies arquebuses, but they were slow - Criminals who volunteer to the ular visits to Jolo to slaughter the of Leyte, and the depredations They were all captured; and composed of mainly Pampangans service to be granted full pardon Spanish garrison which remained.“ that they committed there with the a great contest arose among the and laborious to reload. A great and Visayans were part of the deal of the combat must have been for past offenses.” It is therefore not unthink- license permitted to them in seeing enemy as to who should have Fa- force led by Governor General that there was no attempt made in ther Carpio as his captive. In this hand-to-hand. Pitched to religious Sebastian Hurtado de Corcuera. Given this historical able that the Cebuano survivors/ fervor, a Moro was the equal to background on the animosity of veterans of this campaign later Manila to check them. contention they had recourse to the This force traveled aboard eleven On Sunday, December 3, Mindanao captain, and he ordered any Spaniard in hand-to-hand bat- large vessels with 760 Spanish Visayan Christians and Moros, it passed on their martial arts skills tle, and yet Corcuera survived to is easy to grasp how deep rooted to the rest of Cebu and the Visayan 1634, the Mindanaos arrived with that the father be killed. That they infantrymen who were divided into eighteen galleys at the village of did very gladly, and beheaded win a brilliant victory. a total of seven companies. Using the conflict in Mindanao is until Islands. The foregoing text also today. The bloody war of attrition bolsters our theory on the active Ogmuc, (Ormoc City) leaving him and carried his head back to de Corcuera remains as one of the Zamboanga as base, the troops behind in that of Baybay the rest present it as a spoil to their king, conspicuous figures of the Spanish underwent rigorous training between the Barracudas (Moro participation of Spanish priests in fighters) and the Ilagas (Ilonggos) combat and their influence in the of the vessels, which they brought Cachil Corralat (Sultan Kuda- conquest of Mindanao. He was with the advice and help of Datu in their fleet. Fifty of our Indians rat). The latter had charged them a perfect soldier. His reward for Suksukan of Zamboanga and Datu and the succeeding MNLF war of development of Eskrima. Lavilles secession in the1970’s displaced de Paula in her narrative told of went out to resist them, but be- not to leave alive any religious or distinguished service in the field Piatong of the Lutaos” ing unable to fight so many, they Spaniard, for so had he vowed to against the Moros was paralleled more than a quarter of a million the same pattern of pillage and Chavacano the native Muslims in Mindanao. Casualties plunder in the towns of Sibonga, gradually retired to a little fort, their false prophet Mahomet in an by the treatment Cortez and Bal- dialect of the Zamboanguenos is a possessed by the village. They illness that he had had. They took boa received at the hands of the from both sides also numbered to Mandaue with its famous Bantayan hodgepodge of bastardized Span- several hundred thousand. sa Hari Tower, Carcar, Oslob,Naga thought that they would be able to the others captive, and sacked and Spanish crown. ish, Cebuano, Yakan and Subanon resist the pirates there, being en- burned all the village. From that During his term of office 4.4 The recruitment of Cebuanos and Talisay. Practically all the 52 dialects. coastal municipalities of Cebu had couraged by their minister, Father place they sailed out and commit- as Governor-General of the Philip- continued until the 19th century. Juan del Carpio, of the Society of ted the same destruction in the pines (1635-1644), he incurred the 4.3 Even after the administration Chapter 15 Later Wars of Swish of a history of recurring Moro forays. of Corcuera the Spanish authori- Given this statistics and taking into Jesus; and they did so for some villages of Soyor, Binan, Cabalian, displeasure of the Friars, and upon the Kris, recalls graphically what time, until the Moros, knowing Canamucan, and Baybay (Leyte being succeeded by Diego Fajar- ties continued to employ Visayan motivated the Cebuanos to volun- account the brave Sri Vishayan mercenaries to exact revenge and ancestry of the Cebuanos, Ilong- that the church was higher than Island). But they were so stoutly do, he was haled into court, fined teer in a war against the Moros in the fort, entered it and our men resisted in the village of Iniban- 25,000 and thrown into prison for kill as many Moros as they can the name of the King of Spain: gos and Warays, we can deduce with the promise of great rewards. that a raw form of Martial Arts could not reach them with their ga (Inabanga) in [the island of] five years. He was finally released “Indeed, matters reached such shots. They planted three pieces in Bohol, and in Dapitan (Mindan- by a Royal Order and given the Chapter 13 of Swish of the Kris started to take shape in defense of details this account: a state that before the end of the their coastal communities. Later a convenient place at the church, ao), that they retired but little the tardy award of Governor of the year warships were ordered out in order to do great damage to gainers; for those Indians (Visayan Canary Islands. “A decree dated December 21, the Spanish authorities took ad- for another attack on Jolo. Four vantage of the Martial skills of the those in the fort; and firing with- Christian natives) are very valiant, Ned Nepangue in a pre- 1751, was signed by the Gover- regiments of infantry and a corps out cessation, they did not allow and very different in valor from vious article wrote of the stick nor-General of Manila. It provid- native Cebuanos and their animos- of artillery aided the gunboats. ity against the Moros during the our men to fire a shot through its the other villages which the Mind- fighting arts of Canary Islands and ed: Included was a battalion of Cebua- loopholes and windows. Others anaos sacked. Venezuela that is closely similar in Corcuera administration. And with - The extermination of the Mos- noes (sic)who sought revenge for the subsequent alliance with the of the enemy hastened by another The Camucones (the name technical form to Eskrima / Arnis. lems of Mindanao and Sulu with the Moro raids. The wives of the side to gather bundles of thatch of the Moro pirates who inhabit Who could have introduced stick Pampangos and a more deadly and fire and sword and no quarter for Cebuanoes(sic) emulated Lysistra- highly developed martial arts that by uncovering the roofs of the the little islands of the Sulu group fighting in the Canary Islands? Moros of any age or either sex. ta in reverse. Every wife took an houses; and by fastening together east of Tawi-tawi, and the islands From the historical facts above we now call as Eskrima, Arnis, Es- -The fitting out of Visayan cor- oath before Father Ibanez to deny toque or Estokada later flourished. what wood and bamboo they could between these and Borneo) al- we can surmise that De Corcu- sairs with authority to extinguish forever their husbands all of their gather, and pushing this contriv- so-a people from islands subject era, during his administration of the foe; to accomplish the burning favors if the Cebuano men turned 4.5 From the Book The Philip- ance toward the fort, they set it to Borney, cruel and barbarous, the Canary Islands could have of all that was combustible. their backs to the Moros. pine Islands, Chapter XV by afire. The fire burned a quantity and Mahometan by religion, al- brought along with him trusted -To destroy all crops; desolate In the battle of Jolo, Father Blair & Robertson is a narrative of rice and abaca (which is the though there are pagans in some alalays (cronies) that probably all land; make Moro captives and Ibanez lost his life in the assault of Moro raids in Leyte, Bohol hemp of this country), and many islands-made their raids into the cross trained with native Filipinos recover Christian slaves. on a Moro cotta. The good Father and Panay Islands: men were choked by the smoke. island of Panay, chiefly on the vil- lages of Batan, Domayan, and Ma- return to try their fortune in those Here are more excerpts Antonio Maglano, OSA, was the 5.2 Also from Chapter 11 of Swish Ilonggos in the art of combat due hanlur, and in those of Aclan and regions for many years.” from Evangeline Lavilles de warrior-priest who led the Boljoon of the Kris, Hurley gave credit to to the vulnerability and proximity Bahay, where they captured many Again, the foregoing nar- Paula’s book Cebu in History and militiamen. the bravery the Spanish priests: of their coastlines to the fast paraos of our Indians, and burned the rative demonstrated the cunning Legend: One of the parish priests “The history of the Spanish occu- of Moro raiders. The Christian na- churches of the visita. The visitas and bravery of the early Christian “Boljoon is one of the oldest towns who worked hard to repulse the pation of the Philippines is filled tives in these coastal areas had no are usually deserted, and have no Boholanos and Ilonggos of Panay in the South. And it is also the most Muslim pirates was Fr. Julian Ber- with reference to the bravery of choice but to fight tooth and nail to houses to defend them; and those in repulsing the Moro raiders. quaint and picturesque. Its nar- mejo. A chain of watchtowers was the militant priests of the Jesuit protect their territorities, women, Camucones are very cowardly and row coastal plains are bordered constructed under his direction. order. These ambidextrous mis- children, culture and their new- Theory 5. very different from the Joloans and by cliffs and luxuriant hills which This chain ran along the shoreline sioners, Cross in left hand and found religion. The Moro attacks Mindanaos, who are valiant, and Eskrima / Arnis undoubt- has a commanding view of Bohol from Punta Tanon (Santander) to Toledo blade in right, were in the on the Cebu, Negros and Panay much more so the latter named. edly is a product of Filipino Strait. Manhage. It was later extended up first wave of every attack on the coastlines were more frequent The Camucones entered by the riv- genius, however, we cannot also to Carcar, for a total length of 96 than any other place in the entire According to Marin Morales, the Moros.“ er and bar of Batan, which is salt downplay the significant contribu- kms. He built a large quadrangu- archipelago. It is therefore safe to town was created in 1598. The The pattern of Moro raids water, where a very grievous jest tions of Spanish military /civilian lar house made of masonry and its postulate that because of regular parish was established a year later. from the shores of Bantayan happened to two or three of their fencers especially the clergy in its walls were at least a meter thick; fracas, these ethnic groups honed But this was disputed by Fr. Blan- Islands, Cebu, Antique, Iloilo, craft. The river of Batan has an- development. its four corners were reinforced their fighting skills and developed other river a short distance above co, asserting that the parish was with loopholes. The townspeople Leyte, Dumaguete to Pampanga a more technical form of combat 5.1 Boljoon the village road, which ends in a founded in 1600. The church of called it dakung balay. The Gov- matched perfectly with the dom- vis a vis the other regions. The very wide and spacious sea, which Boljoon’s history presents Boljoon was started by Fr. Man- ernor-general, impressed, sent to inance of these coastal provinces Visayans dominance in the Filipino they call “ tinagongdagat,” or proof of Spanish Warrior priests uel Cordero and completed by Fr. the necessary artillery equipment in today’s Filipino Martial Arts martial arts has nothing to do with “hidden sea,” in which the inhab- training Cebuano natives and Julian Bermejo, who also built for this fortress. Fr, Bermejo also of Eskrima, Arnis, and Estokada. boastfulness as what Pedro Reyes itants enjoy excellent fishing. With engaging Moro raiders in hand the convent that was finished in installed a telegraphic system for Like the Big Bang Theory, the Fil- wrote in his article The Filipino the ebb of the tide that spacious to hand combat. We can further 1841. The convent is L-shaped like the purpose of constant commu- ipino Martial Arts exploded in the martial tradition. For lack of a sea is left, almost dry, and then surmise that the early techniques a monastery surrounded by walls nication among towns in cases of years 1635-1644 during the term weighty hypothesis Pedro Reyes many kinds of shellfish are caught, of Eskrima such as the “fraille”, and tile roof. impending raids. of Governor General Sebastian without qualms and understanding such as oysters and crabs. The “florete”, “crossada” were coined Boljoon church is a verita- Old Boljoon had four Hurtado de Corcuera, the military of the sensibilities of the proud Camucones entered that sea, with by these warrior priests. Erlinda ble showcase of old and intricate dependents: Mambaje, Ivisan, and genius that pitted the best warriors Visayans insulted us: Kintanar Alburo recounts in her carvings and bass relief. It still has of the Visayas and Luzon against the intention of lying in wait for Tanon. The first three were situated “Arnisadores prefer teachers who book Sumad: Essays for the Cen- the Spanish churchyard beside it. the fearless Moros of Sulu. The some capture, but when they least near the beach, while Tanon was shine by their own light, like the tennial of the Revolution in Cebu According to Tamayo, of all Cebu’s dominant Fiipino martial arts or- expected it they found their craft perched high up in the mountains sun, rather than the planets that which is a collection of essays on churches, the Boljoon church best ganizations worldwide that origi- on dry ground. An Indian who was serving as an observation post for shine by the reflected light of their the Cebuano insurrection that a gives one a sense of the Philip- nated from these once fertile Moro gathering the aforesaid shellfish the marauding Moros.” school or teacher. That is why ar- Spanish priest Fr. Angel Maestro pine colonial past. J.T Newman hunting grounds are Doce Pares, saw them; and, recognizing them nisadores like Jose Caballero,(Ce- taught Cebuano revolutionary hero describes the church: It is rela- Kali Ilustrisimo, Pekiti-Tirsia and to be piratical enemies by the style buano) Remy Presas (Ilonggo) and Leon Kilat the fundamentals of tively well preserved, except for its Giron Arnis Escrima. There are of their craft, went to the village Edgar Sulite(Waray) claim to have and gave warning of them. Many Eskrima. communion rail with ornate silver- also several dozens of obscure work, which has been stolen. It is styles that have taken root from created their own styles, rather of the inhabitants of Batan assem- than to have inherited them. Inci- bled, and, well armed, attacked pseudo-baroque-rococo. Its tower these provinces like, Bergonia is unusual because it is Islamic in Style, Toledo-Collado(Pangasian dentally, masters from the North the Camucones very courageously. are more apt to be self-deprecating They made a great slaughter of character, it is square, rather than -once part of Pampanga prov- curved, making it look more like a ince), Moro-moro (either Samar while masters from the South are the pirates, and captured many of more prone to boast. This is due them and burned their craft. Some fortress than anything. Its rectan- or Bohol orgins), Cadena de Mano gular belfry, built in 1701, has fort (probably Panay), Abanico de to social convention and personal of the Camucones escaped through dynamics and has little to do with the mangrove plantations and windows used to show cannons to Vertical (West Cebu), Bohol style, defend against Moro pirates. The Tapado (Negros) to name a few. actual ability. But in the country of swampy ground. They were cap- hard sell this could be one reason tured next day, with the exception sound of its silver bells reached It is foolhardy to assume Oslob and Alcoy. But in 1802, they that a single ethnic group invented why arnis from the south is spread- of those who had the luck to rejoin ing throughout the world, while the boats of their companions-who were stolen by Muslim hordes led the Filipino Martial Arts, but what by Datu Orendain. Because of their is obvious here however, is the arnis from the North remains in the repenting of their carelessness, One of Fray Julian Bermejo’s defen- shadows” returned to their lands, and did not Leon Kilat weight, the Moro vinta sunk. Fray sive structures found in Boljoon dominance of the Cebuanos and Reading between the lines, Antonio Ilustrisimo prefered to be no internet cafe then, no text mes- ple for hundreds of generations like boundaries of Bukidnon, Davao ogous to what we see in “Kali”, it is another vain effort by people called an Eskrimador, or even our saging and no TransAsia plying the the Moro bogeyman that our yayas and Cotabato I always end up in a Eskrima, or Arnis. Or maybe they of the North to muddle the history myopic friend Pedro calls himself route. (babysitters) used to scare us with quagmire. I tried Ned’s suggestion really don’t have any organized of the Filipino martial arts. Reyes an Arnisador. Master Ben Largusa I would like to argue that to pacify our childhood tantrums: to search for him in a place noted sword fighting system after all and is no different from the pretentious leader of LargusaVillabrille Kali assumption of Mark Wiley by “Hala kon di ka mohilom dagiton for making bolos. Aside from their relied purely on suicidal frenzy FMA historians out to skew the calls his late mentor Grandmaster again quoting Paul Morrow: ka sa Moros ug e-lawog sa Tirong” own version of native nipa wine and the sharpness of their Kris at facts about the Filipino Martial Floro Villabrille an Eskrimador. “So, how do we tell what is true (Hey, if you won’t shut up the Moro called Pa-uroy, the town of Canti- the height of mayhem. Knowing Arts and as a loyal practitioner Let us assume for the and what is false in Philippine is going to snatch you and feed you lan Surigao del Sur is also famous the typical Mindanao Muslim’s of Kali Ilustrisimo, in effect he purposes of discussion that indeed history? Here is a rule of thumb: to the Tirongs). for their finely forged pinuti , penchant for announcing in huge is banging himself in the head or Kali was practiced by the Ten Da- Any account that assigns an exact To muddle the issue further but there is no one here who can streamers petty accomplishments unless he will concoct a story that tus of Panay as what Mark Wiley date to an event in the Philippines there are other amateur linguists handle the weapon with at least ru- such as passing the Teacher’s the Ilustrisimo system originated suggested in his book the Filipino before the arrival of the Spanish in the Filipino martial arts that dimentary skill. From Dumingag, Board Exams, their “sticker-hap- in Tondo or Ilocos. Martial Arts: in 1521 is probably not true. At theorize on certain Visayan words I was referred to a Muslim blade- py” cars, gun-totting warlords and I’ve always been a proud “Legends claim that ten Datus present there is only one exception as the root of Kali. They say that smith in Margosatubig, Zamboan- flamboyant display of jewelry, Cebuano, however I find it dif- (chieftains) left Borneo and settled to that rule. That is the date re- Kali is related to many words, that ga del Sur, but the poor artisan I I find it incredible how such a ficult to believe that Lapu-lapu in Panay where they established corded on the Laguna Copperplate means that this same word has encountered does not even know Martial Art known as Kali that they defeated Magellan with his supe- the Bothoan in the twelfth century. Inscription of 900 A.D. which was connections with the following the word Kali. I was expecting to supposedly invented can be kept rior Kali skills as portrayed by the The Bothoan was a school where proved by skilled investigation. Visayan words: finally get the chance to meet an secret until today. pseudo historians in the Filipino the Datus taught Kali along with As time goes on, more and Kalipay (Happiness), authentic Kali man in the person So where does our theory martial arts circles. For all I care academic subjects and agricul- more exceptions to the rule of Kalibutan (Earth/World), Kalibog of Grandmaster Billy Baaclo of on the origin of the first Filipino Magellan could have tripped on ture. It was a kind of preparatory thumb will arise due to the efforts (Confusion), Kaliwat (Relatives/ Ozamiz City. To my disappoint, he Martial Art fit in? Simple logic, the corals off the shores of Mactan school for tribal leaders. “ of the increasing number of new Ancestors/Heredity), Kalisud traced the lineage of his Abaniko given our hyphothesis: and bashed his head on the rocks. historians who desire to correct the (Difficulty), Kalibanga (Diarrhea/ de Sungkiti to Prancing Ybanez - Years 1635-1644 The Explo- The “battle” that took place as his- But then again, as he said LBM), Kalimotaw (Eye Pupil), of Sibonga, Cebu. I did find an it is just a legend - told and retold lies that were taught to Filipinos in sion of FMA during the administra- torians tell us was actually a lop- the past.” Kaligo (Bath), Kalit (Sudden), assortment of Barongs and authen- tion of Governor General Sebastian sided massacre. Magellan only had and embellished for several gener- Kalihim (Secretary) . . . okay let tic Krises in Lanao, but they were ations that any scholar in his right Hurtado de Corcuera less than a 50 man reconnaissance us disarrange the letters . . . Kilat mostly ornamental. I tried to cajole - Recruitment of Pampango, patrol (not a full scale invasion mind would not take with a grain (Thunder), Kilas (Agility) . . . and the peddlers themselves to bring of salt. While we did have lec- Cebuano, Ilonggo and Warays and by any military standard) against where and when did kris become me to the Muslim swordsman, and cross pollination of raw martial more than one thousand men of tures about the Code of Maragtas kalis? What language is that? Espe- what did I get? “Igso, banig na and Kalantiaw,(which is already skills with aid of Spanish fencers. Lapu-lapu, and you call that a ranto? lang, walay Kali.” (Brother, just - Warrior priest actively en- martial art victory? Pure hogwash! proven as a fake) I can’t recall any For twenty-two years I buy my mat, no Kali). So where’s of the history my teachers back in gaged in combat alongside Chris- As the first Asian to repel a foreign have traveled the entire breadth the elusive Kali man? tian Indios and Spanish Regulars invader, Lapu-lapu’s niche in Phil- college mentioning a sophisticated of Mindanao as a Salesman while No one will question the ippine history is already assured, system of combat like Kali during on the side searching in vain for Moro people’s fortitude in battle, Coined by no less than the but please let us stop spicing up the pre-Hispanic period. Such a the vaunted Kali man I’ve read but whatever form of sword fight- Spanish colonial masters of the era, the story on the “Battle” of Mactan wonderful subject as an ancient so much in Filipino martial arts ing they practice, I have no doubt the single most definitive word that as an epic display of our hero’s Martial Art would have been a books. Without luck, everywhere I in my mind that it is not Kali. best described their engagement Martial Arts prowess. good piece of classroom discus- went dodging bullets and 105-mm Silat and Kuntao are indig- with the indomitable Moros of I have nothing against sion. So, how could our teachers howitzers whistling past my ears, enous to the Island of Basilan but Sulu was - ESCRIMA ! organizations calling their Art miss that during those years when Watch tower in Narvacan, Ilocos Sur from Ipil, Zamboanga del Sur to none of its techniques are anal- Kali, that is just fine for branding Bruce Lee’s Eskrima exhibition purposes, but laying claim that it is in the movie Enter the Dragon If indeed Kali is a very old Bibliography: was still very fresh in our memo- term and has something to do with the mother of Eskrima / Arnis and “Cebu in Legend and History” by: Evangeline Lavilles de Paula that it originated in Muslim Mind- ry. Again, granting that Bothoan warriorship then everyone must “Sumad: Essays for the Centennial of the Revolution in Cebu” by Erlinda Kintanar Alburo (Center for Cebuano Studies) anao is a contentious issue. Kali is really existed and Kali was one of be familiar with it like the words “Angels in Stone” Pedro G. Galende, OSA a contradiction in terms, where can the lessons in their curriculum . . baraw, tameng, sondang, bangkaw “Maragtas and Kalantiaw-History or Fraud?” by: Paul Morrow you find a practitioner of Kali who . well, what was true in 1500s or . . .and it would have imprinted “Pre-Hispanic Source Materials for the Study of Philippine History” by: William Henry Scott calls himself “Kalisador” or “Ka- prior to that, was not necesarilly an indelible mark in the collective “Swish of the Kris” by: Vic Hurley lista”- no less than Grandmaster true to other adjacent islands . . . consciousness of the Visayan peo- “Complete Sinawali” by: Reynaldo Galang “The Philippine Islands” by: Blair & Robertson “There is no “Cebuano Eskrima” as a system of Stickfighting the author’s use this term for convenience to sum- “Origins of Eskrima” by: Ned Nepangue marize all the systems and styles of martial arts considered traditional to Cebu in this book.” Special thanks to the following contributors: Mert Altares, King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals, Dhahran, Sau- “This book is not an attempt to “demonize” the Moro people whom we highly esteem for their bravery in bat- di Arabia., Juris Fernandez, Liloan, Cebu tle, but to present a more logical chronology of events based on historical facts, first-hand accounts by reliable resource persons, archaeological evidence and plain common sense on the true origins of Eskrima / Arnis / Estocada.” FMA Informative: How did it come about that you buano the legendary Antonio Ilustrisimo. I forgot the had the idea of writing a book on Cebuano Eskrima? title of the article, but when it came out on the inter- And when did Mr. Nepangue become involved and did net, this paragraph was removed. I told Ned to inform he come to you or you to him? the editor of the Rapid Journal my open disgust and The Rapid Journal was the No #1 martial arts magazine in the Philippines. Mr. Macachor: Ned visited me for the first time in anger of this statement. I am a proud Cebuano, and I’d Closing its doors in 2010, it still offers all the issues that came out. Get them before they run out. 1999 while I was still assigned in Ozamiz as Nestle break anyone’s head who’ll say anything derogatory For back issues of Rapid Journal visit: ( www.RapidJournal.com ) or ( www.berdugo.us ) Supervisor. He actually wanted to meet my elusive about the Cebuanos and the Visayans. mentor Eric Olavides and was aware that he couldn’t FMA Informative: Once getting started on the book, Interview with Celestino C. Macachor hook up with the latter if he what was involved in deciding what would be in the can’t get to me first. Ned saw book? And why? The book Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth – authored by Ned R. me wearing a Kali T-shirt that I Mr. Macachor: The book although titled Cebuano Nepangue, M.D. and Celestino C. Macachor is a must have book, if inter- had printed a local shop. That’s Eskrima, basically anchored on refuting the kali story. ested or wanting to know about the Filipino martial arts. Basically about when he started to challenge We tried to keep it as balanced as possible. Ned did Cebuano Eskrima it takes away a lot of fictional stories and brings facts to me that kali, the supposedly most of the research on most of the history of the the table. mother of Filipino martial arts prominent clubs and personalities in Cebu Eskrima. The FMA Informative representative met Ned Nepangue in 2008 while is a myth. Ned also tried to Luck, Divine intervention, whatever you call it was in Manila, Philippines and there was just a little conversation about a few cajole me to write for the Rapid on our side when we started on the book project. My things, due to time restraints. Mr. Nepangue was a very busy person re- Journal Magazine, but I was Nestle colleague then MILO Sports Executive Pat searching some new material for the future. hesitant at first because I never Eric Olavides Goc-ong told me of a legendary equestrian Eskrima- However the FMA Informative while visiting the Philippines in 2015 had that much confidence in my dor in southern Cebu by the name of Amboy Kidlat and in Cebu as the representatives’ first stop in the Philippines, was very writing skills. You know, I was such an underachiever who was the mentor his fortunate to get to meet and talk with Celestino Macachor. It was an honor back in high school and college and I have this aver- granduncle Felix “Titi” to finally meet with the co-author author of Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the sion in writing about the martial arts, I prefer to fight Goc-ong. Titi Goc-ong Myth. not write. Anger, Cebuano pride compelled me to who once worked as a This time the FMA Informative representative was able to talk and dis- once and for all write for the Rapid Journal magazine, sacada in Hilo, Hawaii was cuss somethings with Mr. Macachor on the subject of the Filipino martial when I read the late Pedro Reyes’ article with a very deported back to the coun- arts about the past, present and future. condescending tone towards the Visayans. In one of try for killing an African The FMA Informative is very appreciative to be able to ask Mr. Macachor his articles he said: “Arnisadores prefer teachers who American in a juego todo about the book he co-authored with Ned Nepangue which was published in 2007. shine by their own light, like the sun, rather than the duel. Felix Goc-ong passed The book is divided into four parts: planets that shine by the reflected light of their school on his Eskrima to Julian, or teacher. That is why Arnisadores like Jose Caballe- Pat Goc-ong’s father. All Part One – is about Eskrima in general ro Remy Presas and Edgar Sulite claim to have creat- Amboy Kidlat Part Two – is about Eskrima in Cebu ed their own styles, rather than to have inherited them. that time, I thought the Part Three – covers some broad technical discussion on Eskrima Incidentally, Masters from the North are more apt to Part Four – includes extra notes related to Eskrima story of Amboy Kid- be self-deprecating while Masters from the South are lat was pure urband The prologue lays out the idea and intentions of the book and the FMA Informative would like to quote more prone to boast. This is due to social convention legend, until by some some parts of it to the reader: and personal dynamics and has little to do with ac- stroke of pure luck, tual ability. But in the country of hard sell this could “The authors do not intend to present this book just like any other books on Filipino martial arts. This work is a Ned bumped into Luz- be one reason why Arnis from the south is spreading reading material on Filipino culture where FMA is just but a small neglected part. viminda Berro a former throughout the world, while Arnis from the North After decades of a “generic” description of Eskrima (a form of FMA), it is now the time to know more marathon champion remains in the shadows”. details. There is a need now for an in-depth study of the local or regional Eskrima perspectives and practices to who used to peddle He was actually shooting himself in the foot, appreciate Eskrima deeper.” considering his avowed reverence to his mentor a Ce- Facunda ‘Aling Cunda’ Sabanal Berro lunch packs in the hospital where Ned once worked. priests openly engaging Moros and teaching Eskri- The FMA Informative would like to thank Mr. Macachor for his time and patience in answering the questions Ned asked Luzviminda if she has heard of the story of ma to Christianized natives. I also befriended a very that were asked. Amboy Kidlat. Lo and Behold, Luz is a granddaughter well educated Tausug Muslim based in the U.S., who of Pablo “Amboy Kidlat” Sabanal. That’s how we got shared with us valuable information about the Bangsa Mr. Macachor and Mr. Nepangue have put together a book that yes it has been out since 2007, however to interview Aling Cunda Sabanal Berro, Amboy Kid- Moro Arts. He also affirmed that Kali is unknown in the FMA Informative believes that it was not handled correctly for maximum sales by the publisher, and has lat’s daughter and her eventual inclusion in the “|Lost Muslim Mindanao. His name is Sali Nagarajen a.k.a since it conception in 2011 promoted the sale of this book “Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth’ in every FMA Tribes” chapter. Style Allah, one of my trading partners for the past ten Informative newspaper and any other media that it has had the opportunity to advertise it. Many books that have come out in the past are not available in today’s market. This book is still avail- FMA Informative: How long was the book in the years, a fine gentleman who descended from a Sulu able, get it DO NOT make the mistake or the opportunity to have a book that will always be a piece of literary works? How was the research conducted? nobility. value and a treasure about the Filipino martial arts. Mr. Macachor: It took us five years to complete the FMA Informative: Chapter 4 “The Lost Tribes of book and another year to get it published by Xlibris. Cebuano Eskrima,” How was it decided who would be We started working on it in 2001 sometime September included in this chapter? when I was finally relocated by Nestle to my home- Mr. Macachor: Ned and I agreed on one thing, to Ned Nepangue Points out Some Facts on Kali town Cebu City after 23 years in Mindanao. By that highlight only the unknown Eskrimadors in this chap- We can only make a guess ourselves to believe that Eskri- the contemporary Eskrima/Arnis/ time I already had enough material, talked to a lot ter. With the exception of Bonifacio “Loly” Uy and as to the origin of Eskrima/Arnis/ ma/Arnis/Estocada is something Estocada schools. of people, from Muslim traders, blacksmiths in the Jane Melendez, all the Estocada since there are no conclu- pre-Hispanic even without enough If it is true that kali is the interior and fringes Mindanao from Caraga, Cotabato, rest are already de- sive written records available in the proof to support the theory is not martial art practice by the ancient Bukidnon, Zamboanga Sibugay to find out about Kali ceased. We were just in archives to assist us in our research advisable. warriors in the islands then it which according to Dan Inosanto in his book “The Fil- the nick of time to talk (that is, if we are really serious We only have the follow- must have included the use of the ipino Martial Arts” originated in Mindanao. The book to these grand old men. about this). Earlier writings did ing objective facts to help us prove tameng or shield and the bangkaw was finally published in April 2007. A year after the inter- mentioned in passing, something or disprove the current theory of spear. Since the art of Eskrima/ view, Nitoy Tabotabo, FMA Informative: Did you and Mr. Nepangue regarding pre-Hispanic martial the origin of the Eskrima or Arnis. Arnis is derived from kali as some work on every aspect of the book together? Or was Pedro Domecillo and arts in the islands. But we should Fact #1: No written records avail- suggested then it must have these there sections that you worked on and Mr. Nepangue Julian Goc-Ong passed remember this, that the earliest able, which describes what this weapons included in the curricu- worked on other sections? away. Europeans who visited the islands allegedly pre-Hispanic martial art lum. Tameng is still useful even in Mr. Macachor: We didn’t follow a strict division of Bonifacio “Loly” Uy did not know the native languages, of Kali really was and there is no the modern times; in fact riot po- labor as far as content is concerned, whenever I came were not familiar about the native evidence to prove that Eskrima/ lice are still using this contraption up with an idea or Ned came up with his own, there culture at the time, were eth- Arnis/Estocada martial arts are to control angry crowds. Spears was practically no argument or debate and we pro- no-centrists, and were in the Orient related to the art of Kali. on the other hand are still found in ceeded whatever we picked up. Except for one chapter primarily to look for spices and Earlier writings mentioned many other martial arts. “The Lost Tribes…” where I wrote the entire content, not to do research on martial arts. how good those early natives were Fact #3: The claims that histori- of course with the materials and information Ned Nobody can really say what kind in hand-to-hand combat. These cal personalities like Lapu Lapu, gathered. I guess 70 % of the book was written by of martial art these early travelers early European adventurers were Tupas and others were really into Ned, but I took care of the editing on the prologue and saw (if that was truly a martial art) maybe accurate in their appraisals kali or Eskrima remained unprov- the epilogue, which was a very tedious process. It was when they first came that summer. since they were soldiers/fighters en. like a ping pong game. After I was done with a portion We cannot even say that it was themselves and knew what was Some so-called authorities of the book, I would mail it back to Ned and vice ver- Julian Goc-Ong Kali they saw, since they were not good form and what was not. But of the Filipino martial arts always sa. Ned argued that Kali did not exist and it was heavi- FMA Informative: Chapter 5 familiar about martial arts (like still the same, these available associate names like that of Lapu ly influenced by the Spaniards. I plugged the holes “Technicalities in Eskrima,” Draeger, Smith or Wiley). Let us literatures do not give us details Lapu to Eskrima, as if they were and it was from one of my first article for the Rapid was this a personal observa- also take note that during those as to what kali really was. So kali around already in 1500s. The funny Journal where I presented a new hypothesis. If Kali tion, or did you and/or Mr. times there was no unified form of can be everything, it can be stone fact is they could not even provide did not exist, how did the Spaniards pass the skills on Nepangue consult various government and people were not throwing, wild boar hunting, yo-yo name(s) of who’s who in the latter to the Indios, who took charge of the training? So I did practitioners? hooked in the Internet. People in playing etc. years (in the 1600s, 1700, 1800s) my own research, and found out, that Spanish priests Jose “Joego” Milan Mr. Macachor: Ned is very the archipelago then (and this is to strengthen their claims. How one were responsible for the training of Visayans in the Fact #2: Research found out that well versed on the technicalities of Eskrima, I gave him still true until today) speak many could claim he is the great-great pacification of Sulu in Mindanao. Recently, there is a the natives in the islands before full credit for that by virtue of his having trained with the languages, thus what was true grandson of the great Mr. So-and- deluge of information shared to us by the gentlemen the Europeans came used shields best instructors during his heyday like Jose “Joego” Mi- in the island of Panay then, was so if he does not even know who of HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) especial- and spears, weapons that are no lan. You know very well I’m not a technique guy, I only not necessarily true in the nearby his biological father is? ly Matt Galas of Belgium tons of materials of Spanish need to learn two or three strikes and that’s all. islands of Cebu or Samar. Forcing longer visible in the majority of Fact #4: All Eskrima/Arnis share ality Eskrima/Arnis has nothing learn the language. For three centu- “re-introduced” years ago. Kali is diluted equivalents. ality especially before the islands more common traits than differ- to do with the Muslims groups in ries, only the elite and the educated never a traditional name for the na- Kali that we can see today became a colony of Spain. When ences. the south who have their own very could speak and write the Spanish tive martial art. If one goes to a se- doesn’t differ from Eskrima/Arnis. there is war, there are warriors, The Filipino stick fighting beautiful and lethal martial art of language. A strange fact is, a great cluded place in Cebu for example Some say that Kali is on blades weapons and military arts. If kali in many ways is really different Silat. Many people foolishly at- percentage of technical terms used and ask those Eskrima old-timers while Eskrima/Arnis more on was a military art then history compared to other stick fighting tempted to establish link between in Eskrima/Arnis/Estocada (and there if they know what is kali, the sticks implying that kali is more books in high school and college systems in the region. The Eskrima the two, but until now they could even the supposedly pre-Hispan- will probably say they don’t know. combative, realistic and origi- must mention it. I do not remember styles as practiced by many Iloca- not provide us enough evidence. ic kali styles) are in Spanish, the And these people are supposed to nal form while Eskrima/Arnis as reading a word kali in our histo- nos in the far north of the archi- In books and articles on eskrima language most Filipinos then (and know better. sanitized intended for sports. But ry books when I was still in high pelago are basically familiar to the they always include stories about now) did not speak. This is also Fact #10: The earliest technical in places where the word kali is school and college, instead in our styles found in the south, in the juramentado just to add dramatic the language used by the authori- description about Eskrima/Arnis not the traditional term used, the world history I read words like sa- Visayas. There may be differences effect, but in reality all of these, ties who outlawed the practice and was available only lately. Eskrima/Arnis also included the murai, katana etc. Books of anthro- in some expressions but generally has nothing to do with Eskrima/ propagation of this native martial The very first known book practice of the bladed weapons. In pology must also provide details speaking they are the same. Arnis. Some insist that some of art. If the practitioners at that time available in public was Yambao’s fact many of those who categorize about it. It is not mentioned, not Fact #5: Practically all Eskrima these Muslim tribes do practice were forced to practice in hiding, book in 1957. their styles as kali were actually because historians are not interest- systems/styles are practiced only some form of kali art. But if we in- then why did they not use their derived from Escrima/Arnis styles. ed, it is simply because there is no quire what tribe is that, they could own respective languages and dia- Fact #11: Many modalities in Es- sufficient information about it. in the Christianized groups (or krima/Arnis/Estocada like espada Fact #14: There is no lack of good those who are under the direct not readily give answer. Some say lects instead of using Spanish? blacksmiths and is not the reason So basing on the afore- it is in Sulu, but if we ask further y daga are also found in European influence of the Spanish conquis- Fact # 8: The connection between fencing arts. why many Escrima/Arnis fight- mentioned facts, we can only offer tadors for 333 years), and that no which part of Sulu? Again there kali and Indonesian martial art of ers use sticks now instead of real logical comments as to the possible known Eskrima system/style is is no clear answer. Since the 70s tjakalele is not yet proven. Fact #12: The once Spanish colony blades. origin of the contemporary Filipi- found among those peoples in the when this claim first appeared, Tjakalele is practically just of Venezuela in far-away South Many good Eskrimadors no martial arts (a bigger portion hinterlands of Luzon, among the and until now nobody can really a war dance originated in the Mol- America also have their own form are not found in areas known for of which is the Eskrima/Arnis/ Lumad and the Muslims in Mind- give the correct answer. Why? lucas. It uses spears and shields, of stick fighting. their machete making skills. Many Estocada/Kali). It is basically a anao. Well, the truth of the matter is, the weapons, which are not found The Garrote Larense stick panday or sword smiths do not product of Filipino creativity and The Spanish colonized there is no kali in the Moroland. in 99% of kali schools. Words like fighting art of Venezuela reminds know Eskrima and it is never men- no doubt whatsoever, it is very the islands for 333 years, but they Just a pure fantasy. Is it possible to kali and tjakalele may sound famil- one of Eskrima. There must be tioned in the Philippine history Filipino. The bulk of its repertoire were not able to convert the entire invent stories and fool the martial iar and related but this not proves a connection between these two that Philippines were running out was developed during Spanish population to the Christian faith. arts community? You bet! If you anything that both are actually martial arts somewhere and further of bolos. colonial times, and plausibly it got There were many ethnic groups are familiar with the story of the related. research is needed. its inspiration from European fenc- Neolithic they reportedly found Fact #15: That the theory pro- left who were not directly con- Fact #9: The suggestion that kali is Fact #13: It is baseless to say that posed is actually not corroborated ing concepts and practices. It was trolled and influenced by them. in Mindanao called Tasaday, you Eskrima or Arnis are just phases of greatly developed and refined (and will easily understand how/why. the root word of some words found in the works of the experts of the Many of these groups are slowly in different Filipino languages and the natural evolution of Kali that Philippine history, anthropology the evolution still continues) only assimilated still retain many of In eskrima/arnis, emphasis is on is Kali being the original form, here in the islands of the Philip- weaponry first then unarmed fight- dialects is not based on linguistics, and sociology. their pre-Hispanic practices. But in fact a study on this claim is yet Eskrima and Arnis the modern and Intertribal war was a re- pines. if the theory is true that Eskrima ing later, but in silat they have the weapons training only later. to be made. and the like is something original- Important pre-Hispan- ly pre-Hispanic, then at least one Fact #7: About 65% of technical ic household words like diwata, of these many tribal groups could terms used in all Eskrima/Arnis/ Bathala, Datu, ulipon are still show us sampling of a functional Estocada developed and propagat- understood by many and this same Eskrima-like stick fighting art, but ed by many linguistically diverse is also true with words associated there is none. ethnic groups are of Spanish with the warriors, like bangkaw, Fact #6: A link between Kali and origin. baraw, tameng. So what is sup- Silat styles is yet to be proven, The Spanish language was posed to be the ancient name for www.cebueskrima.s5.com both are really different in form never totally adapted by the Fili- the Filipino martial art? Kali? If it The Cebu Eskrima Society’s bold mission is to propagate and promote all indigenous Visayan Martial Arts of varying and substance. pinos unlike those in other former is kali then, why don’t we find this colonies of the North and South styles. It is not part of our mission to unify the various methods or systems but to find a common ground that we can Many creative Eskrimadors word in dictionaries of the different nurture in order to stimulate enthusiasm of the Visayan Martial Arts and culture for future generations to inherit. It is only want to have this “Moro motif” America. This was because the co- Filipino languages and dialects? In lonial authorities in the Philippines through our Martial Arts that we can find a distinct cultural identity, not our Christian traditions or Arroz Valenciana or integrated to their styles. In actu- fact this particular word was just Kinilaw or Otap or Paltik pistols. did not encourage the natives to School Submission The schools listed teach Filipino martial arts, either as the main curriculum or an added curriculum. If you have a school that teaches Filipino martial arts, or you are an instructor that teaches, but does not have a school, list the school or style so individuals who wish to experience, learn and gain knowledge have the opportunity. Be Professional; keep your contact information current. - Click Here

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