Volume 3 Number 12014

Sikaran Taliba

Supremo Meliton C. GeronimoHonorary Editor Emeritus

Emmanuel es QuerubinEditor in Chief

Elpidio Seletaria, Jr.Managing Editor

Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.Editor-at-large

ERPArt Editor

Philippine CorrespondentErlina Bartolata

Sikaran Taliba© is published by the Sikaran Pilipinas Publications. It is the only internet magazine dedicated to the Sikaran practitioners around the world. The ideas and opinions in the articles and manuscripts are those of the author / contributor and not necessarily the views of the publisher or the edi-tors. The Sikaran Taliba is not a forum for grievance. The management reserves the right to edit contributed materials for derogatory remarks and disparaging comments. All materials are the exclusive property of the author and cannot be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the author. Neither the world Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines nor the manage-ment of Sikaran Taliba assumes any responsibility in the misuse or abuse of all techniques in this newspaper.

Contents

Major Filipino Newspapers in the United States Rizal Provincial Meet Should the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines Allow Open Martial Arts Tournament? Open Sikaran Tournament in Rodriguez (Montalban) Tanay Open Sikaran Tournament World Sikaran Tournaments 2nd World Sikaran Tournament, Manila 3rd World Sikaran Arnis Championship, Canada Sikaran International Invitational Tournament 4th World Sikaran Arnis Championships, Canada Special Arnis Section Sikaran Uniform Warriors Never Die - They Just Fade Away From Around the Brotherhood From The Desk of the Editor-At-Large

Editorial Office P.O.Box 6332 Alameda, CA. 94501 sikarantaliba@gmail.com

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Sikaran Pilipinas Publications

Republic of the Philippines Certificate of Copyright No. A 2009-102, Depart-ment of Trade and Industry Certificate of Registration 00706053, United States, Library of Congress Copyright Registration No. TXu 1-612-682

Major Filipino Newspapers in the United States Take Notice of World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines

By: Mantas Andy Sanano 9th Degree Red and White Belt WSBP State Director for Florida

2013, marked the year when major Filipino newspapers in the United States took notice of the progress of Sikaran (Fighting Art of the Filipino Farmer), through the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines, in the United States. Led by the Philippines Today, Manila Mail, and FilAm Star, there are indications and hopes that mainstream media in the United States will follow. A Filipino TV channel, which airs Monday to Friday has shown interest in carrying news about the World Sikaran Brother-hood of the Philippines’ events and affairs. This responsibility fell on the desk of Mantas Elpidio Seletaria, Jr., International Coordi-nator.

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Rizal Provincial MeetBy: Noel Espiritu

Information and photos furnished By Erlina Bartolata, Philippine Correspondent

Section 19, Article XIV of the 1987 Consti-tution provides, to wit: “The state shall promote physical education and encourage sports pro-grams, league competitions, and amateur sports, including training for international competitions, to foster self-discipline, teamwork, and excellence for the development of a healthy and alert citizen-ry.” As a result of this provision in the Constitu-tion, barangay, municipal, and provincial meets are held annually for the “development of a healthy and alert citizenry.” On October 20-25, 2013 the Rizal Provincial Meet was held in the Ynarez Sports Center in Antipolo City, in the Province of Rizal.

Named after the National Hero, Jose Rizal, the Province of Rizal was created on June 11, 1901 by authority of the First Philippine Commission. The composition of the new province, came from two existing provinces. From the Province of Manila, the municipalities of Caloocan, Las Piňas, Marikina, Montalban, Muntinglupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Novaliches, Pasig, Pateros, San Mateo,

Ynarez Sports Center, Antipolo City

Line up of the different municipalities

and Lumisang-Aguho. Lumisang-Aguho (mean-ing Aguho that left) was just a barangay in the town of Pateros. Other municipalities that are now known by other names are: Pineda (Pasay), San Felipe Neri (Mandaluyong), San Juan del Monte (San Juan), San Pedro Macati (Makati), Tambobong (Malabon). From the Province of Morong (Politico-Mili-tar District of Morong), 12 municipalities were absorbed by the new province. They are:Angono, Baras, Binangonan, Cainta, Anti-polo, Cardona, Jalajala, Morong, Pillilla, Tanay, Taytay and Teresa.

From the creation of the Province of Rizal in 1901 to the present there were several changes in the composition. When Quezon City was formed parts of Caloocan, Novaliches and San Juan was absorbed. In 1975 Rizal province was further partitioned with the creation of the National Capital Region. Excised from the Province were Las Pinas, Paranaque, Muntinlupa, Taguig, Pateros, Makati, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Mala-bon, Navotas, Pasig, Marikina, Caloocan, Pasay, and Quezon City to form the NCR or National Capital Region.

Pass in review of participants led by Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts

Rizal Province is now made up of 13 municipalities and one city. In alphabetical order, Rizal is now made up of: Angono, Anti-polo City, Baras, Binangonan, Cainta, Cardona, Jalajala, Morong, Pillilla, Rodriguez (formerly Mon-talban), San Mateo, Tanay, Taytay, and Teresa. In 1998, Antipolo was elevated from a municipality to a Component City in the Province of Rizal. It was designated as the Capital of the Province and a new Capitol Building replaced the one in Pasig, which was no longer a part of the province. Antipolo is a well-known tourist attraction. The Hinilugang Taktak Falls National Park, is a popular summer get-away. It is also popular with its locally grown mangoes and cashews, as well as suman. Antipolo prides itself as the Pilgrimage Capital of the Philippines. Enshrined in the Antipolo Cathedral is the icon of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, which was brought from Mexico in 1626. Local devotees also call it the Virgin of Antipolo. Antipolo’s higher elevation gives a

scenic view of the metropolis. All the municipalities in the province of Rizal have their own story to tell. Angono, is known as the dwelling of the higantes (giants). During the Spanish colonial time, Angono was a hacienda ruled by aristo-cratic hacienderos. As a way of protesting their struggle, the workers made three giant effigies of their landlords depicting the father, the mother and the child. The effigies were made of bamboo and paper mache about twelve feet tall. Consequently these effigies became a part of any celebration and became the mascot of Angono. Baras, even during the Spanish times was known as the birthplace of Sikaran. In 1942,

the Japanese Imperial forces occupied the municipality of Baras. The Marking Guerilla Unit, which operated in Rizal engaged the occupying force from 1942 to 1945, finally liberating the town in 1945. The Marking Guerilla Units aided the US military forces in anti-Japanese operations in Grater Manila and Southern Luzon

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hastening the end of World War II. A first-class urban commu-nity, the Municipality of Binango-nan is now part of Manila’s conur-bation with the rapid and continuous expansion of Metro Manila. It has a population of 274,179 inhabitants in a land area of 6,634 hectares. Their main livelihood are fishing and farm-ing. Binangonan is a major sup-plier of freshwater fishes from Laguna de Bay like dulong, ayungin, biya, kanduli, and gurami to Metro Manila, Laguna, Cavite and Batangas. It lies be-tween the foothills of Sierra Madre and the shores of Laguna de Bay. Binangonan is now known as “The Education Center of Rizal.” Quality education is available to Rizal’s inhabitants, where even the less fortunate can avail of quality education, including technical and vocational knowledge . Educational institutions in Binan-gonan include the Rizal National High School, the University of Rizal System, and the Technical Education Skills Development Au-thority (TESDA) center. The Municipality of Cainta was founded on August 15, 1571, making it one of the oldest in the Province. It has a land area of 4,299 hectares and serves as the

secondary gateway to the rest of Rizal province from Metro Manila. With a popu-lation of 311,845 inhabitants, per the 2010 census, Cainta now holds the record as the most popu-lous municipality and the richest municipality in the Philippines. A considerable number of the population in Cainta is de-scended from soldiers from India who mutinied against the British

Army. The British accompanied by Indian soldiers briefly occu-pied the Philippines in 1762 to 1763. These Indian soldiers were called Sepoy or Bombay. They settled in town and intermarried with native women. Their unique physical characteristics (darker skin) make them distinct from the average Filipinos who are primar-ily of Malay and Chinese origins.

There was a time when most nighttime security guards were Sepoy or Bombay because they were known to be able to stay awake longer than most anybody.

A third class urban municipality, Cardona is now part of Manila’s network of urban com-munities. The town of Jala-jala allegedly got its name from small local shellfish called halaan. The town’s name supposedly result-ed from miscommunica-tion between early Span-

ish visitors and natives. The Spaniards enquired of some natives along the shoreline, “¿Como se llama este sitio?” (“What is the name of this place?”) to which the latter replied, “halaán pò,” thinking that the foreigners referred to the shells. The Spaniards accepted the response as the name of the place, and began calling it halaán,

later corrupting it into Jalajala. Predominantly a Muslim area In the early years before Spaniards came, Morong was coined from the word moro. A Morong native named Tomas M. Claudio is listed as a hero in the Philippines. He was the first Filipino to die in World War I while serving with the U.S. Marine Corps as part of the American Expedi-tionary Forces to Europe. He died in France on June 29, 1918. To honor him, the Tomas Claudio Memorial College in Morong Rizal, Philippines, was founded in 1950. The main street of the town was also named in his honor. Pililla is a first class urban municipality in Rizal Province. It is surrounded by farms, small moun-tains, plains and trees. Pililla is just few kilometers away from its

neighboring town Tanay. Formerly known as Mon-talban, Rodriguez is another first-class, urban municipality in Rizal Province. It is the northern-most town in the province. The town is located on the slopes of the Sierra Madre mountain range. It is also the largest town in Rizal province. The town’s old name, Montalban, refers to its mountain-

ous topography. The town’s new official name is taken from the family name of Eulogio Rodri-guez, Sr., one of the most promi-nent citizens. Mt. Irid, the town’s highest peak towers 1,469 meters above mean and sea level.

A first class urban municipal-ity in Rizal Prov-ince, San Mateo, is located along the western border of Rizal Province, it is bordered on the west by Quezon City, to the south by the cities of Marikina and

Antipolo, and to the north by Rodriguez. According to the Metropolitan Manila Develop-ment Authority and the Provin-cial Government of Rizal, San Mateo is one of the fastest grow-ing municipalities in Rizal Prov-ince. There is an account that suggests the Municipality of San Mateo was so called, because of its geographical resemblance to

another town in Spain with the same name San Mateo has had a colorful and distin-guished history. In 1639, a battle ensued between Chinese rebels, on one side and Spanish troops, on the other. The Chinese were defeated and retreat-ed east to the Sierra Madre Mountains but not before burning the town and its church.

Again from 1696 to 1746, this time the town residents rebelled against the Spanish authority. Like the Chinese they were defeated and were forced to go to the mountains and abandon their lowland settlement. From 1751 to 1765 the natives once more rebelled against Spanish governance. With this resistance, the Spanish gov-ernment reduced the town to ruins. In 1871, San Mateo was further dismembered when the barrios of Balite, Burgos, Marang, and Calipahan were separated from San Mateo and formed them into the new municipality of Montalban, now Rodriguez. During the revolution against Spain in 1896, San Mateo was made headquarters of the Filipino forces. On August 6, 1898, San Mateo joined the revolution-

Teresa Miners

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ary government of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo. During the Philippine-American War, guerilla bands led by General Licerio Geronimo operated from the mountains of Rizal. General Licerio Geronimo is a close relative of Bonifacio Geronimo (Grandfather of Meli-ton Geronimo), who at that time was propagating Sikaran in Baras. In the eyes of the Filipino people, Gen. Geronimo became a great man for killing an illustrious American, General Lawton. Gen. Lawton distinguished himself during the American Civil War and the American military cam-paign in Cuba. Tanay, a first class munici-pality in Rizal Province is located 57 kilometers (35 mi) east of Manila. It contains portions of the Sierra Madre Mountains and is bordered by Antipolo City in the northwest, Baras, Morong and

Teresa in the west, General Nakar (Quezon Province) in the east, and Pillilla, Santa Maria (Laguna Province) and Laguna de Bay in the south. Tanay was the headquar-ters of the second mili-

tary area of the Philippine Revo-lutionary Government under General Emilio Aguinaldo. Tanay residents who were members of the Katipunan fought valiantly during the Revolution against Spain. During World War II, the mountain of Tanay was the base of operations of the Marking Guerilla Unit. Known as the “Wood-works and Garments Capital of the Philippines.” The Municipality of Taytay is a first class, municipal-ity in the Province of Rizal. It is bounded by Cainta on the north, Pasig City and Taguig City on the west, Antipolo City in the East and Angono on the South. Led by the Rizal Governor and the Mayor of Taytay, officials of Taytay Town in Rizal province have started drafting their own city charter in preparation for

their bid for cityhood. The local government, serious in its campaign to be-come the second component city in the province after Antipolo City, has claimed that Taytay is far more than qualified in terms of population, area and income aspects. Under the law, to qualify to become a city, towns must have an annual self-generated income of Ph 100 million pesos and a population of 150,000 or more, or a contiguous territory of 100-square kilometer. Teresa a second-class municipality in the Province of Rizal, is situated in the slopes of the Sierra Madre Mountains and is landlocked on four corners by Antipolo City on the north, An-gono on the west, Tanay on the east, and Morong, on the south. Teresa is a valley surround-ed by mountains. The town center is located almost at the center of the valley, with a vast expanse of agricultural land bordered by marble-rich mountains. Originally named “Oroqui-eta” it was a barrio of the Munici-pality of Morong. As a non-inde-pendent town its name was changed to “Santa Rosa” in honor of the town’s patron saint. In 1900 the people agreed to change the name from Santa Rosa to “Teresa.”

San Mateo Blazers

Pictures of the Baras - Home of Sikaran - Contingent During the Rizal Provincial Meet

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Throws like this body smash was a part of Sikaran of old

Lineth Carandang from Tanay Highlanders

Should the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines Allow Open Martial Arts Tournament?By: Mantas Louelle Lledo, Jr., 9th Degree Red and White Belt WSBP New Jersey State Director

There was a time when the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines out rightly prohibited and specifically discouraged tournaments or competitions with other martial arts groups other than Sikaran. This was explicitly expressed by the Si-karan By-Laws Article XIII, Section 4, Paragraph H, which reads: “No member is allowed to join other martial arts organizations or any of their activities (Tournament, Exhibition, promotion, and / or training, etc.) without the consent of the proper authority.” The number one reason offered by the association is the question about the tournament rules and regulations that will be used and the officials who will enforce them. Second consideration that needed to be addressed is liability. If a member of the associa-tion is injured during the tournament, who will be medically liable? The Consti-tution and by-laws of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines has a provision for this situation, but it only applies to members of WSBP, and only during WSBP sponsored and sanctioned tour-naments. If a member of another association is injured who is liable? If a member of the WSBP caused the injury who will be liable? Without understanding the difference of Sikaran from other martial sports, despite the external similarities, some officials

of the Department of Education, the municipal, and the provincial governments accused the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines of “reproductive isolationism.” This presented the misconception that the WSBP as being a group of elitists with a “holier-than-thou- attitude.” They cannot understand why a Sikara-nista will not win in a Karate tournament and vice-versa. There are some “all-en-compassing-wise-men” who even said “what is the difference

between punches and kicks. A punch is a punch is a punch and a kick is a kick is a kick.” True there is no difference between a Sikaran kick of a Karate Kick, a Tae Kwon Do kick or even a Kung Fu kick. Any one of these when properly executed will hurt the opponent. There are even those who claim that Si-karan was once known as Philip-pine Karate; that Sikaran was a

member of the Asian Karate Association; that several Sikaran members won world crowns in the Asian Karate Championships. What they cannot comprehend is that although the techniques in every art or sport may be the same, the tournament rules are different. Each sport has its own contest rules. Long before Karate be-came a sport, Sikaran as a sport was already in existence. Sikaran has a history of full-contact contests, which included throws,

take-downs, pushing and pulling but no hand tech-niques (except for blocking and deflecting the blows). Sports Karate became popular only in the late 1940’s and early 1950’s, and there are two differing rules in Japanese Karate. Followers of Gichin

Sikaran originated as full-contact sports without the use of the hands except for defensive actions

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Funakoshi style of competition use a “control-system-rule” where blows are pulled back short of contact and the competitors do not use protective gear like the members of the Japan Karate Association and the other schools of Karate like the Goju-ryu, the Wado-ryu, the Shito-ryu, and others. Followers of this tourna-ment rules are claiming that Karate blows are “too deadly” if not pulled short of contact. Contestants may be subjected to severe injuries, may be maimed even fatally, which will make it a game of death and not a sport. The other Japanese set of tournament rules was established by Kanken Toyama who formed the All Japan Karate Federation. Followers of this school, like the Shudokan, Rengokai, Rembukan, and others use full protective gear, which includes a head, chest, groin protector, and gloves. This is a “hit-as-hard-as-you-can- knock -your- opponent- out- if-you -can-system.” Points are not given unless your blow hits your opponent. This is the rules fol-lowed by the Asian Karate Cham-

pionships, and all the Filipinos who won in these series either knocked out or knocked down their opponents, a carry-over of their Sikaran experience. How-ever, with this type of contest rule, throwing, takedowns, push-ing, and pulling are not allowed. As Kanken Toyama said, “Contestants may express their Karate skill and show how strong they are without the risk of getting injured or maimed by using protective gear. The first protective gear used in Karate was the Kendo bogu (Kendo Protective gear). However, this type of protective gear inhibits movement, and was very costly. Karate protective gear under-went several modifications, even borrowing from other sports. The final design of Karate protective gear was designed and adopted by the Asian Karate Association. Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo designed and produced protec-tive gear for use of the Sikaran Brotherhood. When attempts were made to unify Karate in the Philippines under the Philip-pine Karate Association, it became necessary to hold tournaments and competi-tions. There were two Karate Tournament rules adopted - the “control-pull-your-blows-short of contact-sys-tem,” and the “hit-as-hard-as-you-can-knock-your opponent-out-system” with the use of protective gear as practiced by the Asian Karate Association. With the formation of the World Union of Kara-

te-do Organizations (WUKO) and the dissolution of the Asian Karate Association, the “control-pull-your-blows-short-of-contact-system” became the only Tourna-ment rule in Karate. Korean Taekwondo, with the inclusion of Kwai Byeung Yoon’s Jido Kwan and Hwang Kee’s Moo Doo Kwan, mandated the use of headgear and chest protector but adopted a different set of tournament rules with modifications. Korean Taekwondo prohibited the use of the hands. Even now, the World Karate-do Federation, which is the Karate authority in the world, utilizes the “control- pull-your-blows-short-of-contact-system.” However, there are still Karate groups that use protective gear. In the rest of the world, the full contact tournaments evolved to the “mixed martial arts system,” without the use of protective gear and a different set of rules. Sikaran, on the other hand restored the old Sikaran rules with major modifications. For

Head, and chest protective gear is mandatory in the children and female divisions

Protective gear designed and produced by Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo for use of the Sikaran Brotherhood

safety’s sake, throwing, take-downs, pushing, and or pulling were prohibited. Only kicking techniques were allowed. Punch-ing and strikes with the hands also were not allowed. With these rules, sports Sikaran became a display of kicking techniques, instead of “any-which-way-fight-ing-system.” Several meetings were conducted between the Depart-ment of Education and the Tech-nical Committee of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines to find a happy me-dium, without compromising the principles of Sikaran and preserve the excitement of the sport. When the set of the tour-nament rules was finalized, hand techniques, throwing, takedowns, pushing, and pulling became prohibited techniques. Use of protective gear for children and

female competitors was mandat-ed. For black belt participants, only the use of the headgear became mandatory. Likewise, male black belts also fought bare-chested, a carry-over of Sikaran of old. It took a lot of trials and errors before the final Sikaran Tournament Rules was approved and became an official part of the by-laws of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines. With the Sikaran Tourna-ment Rules in place and mem-bers of the WSBP trained and accredited to be Tournament Officials, it became possible to join “open tournaments with other martial arts groups.” How-ever, Section 4 of the same Article I, which reads: “All open games, contest, meets and tournaments shall be conducted under the supervision of the WSBP Sikaran

Technical Committee, strictly observing the Opisyal Na Tun-tunin ng Larong Sikaran (Sikaran Official Tournament Rules),” will be the number one consideration. With these provisions, there have been several open tournaments where members of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines have competed, won, and prevailed. Finally, based on Article I - Declaration of Principles and Policies, Section 3, which states: “The World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines shall adopt and foster the principles of camarade-rie, brotherhood, honor, courage, integrity, honesty, and loyalty.” The words “camaraderie” and “brotherhood” weighed heavily on the decision to allow Sikaranis-tas to compete with other martial artists.

Knockout system with protective gear used during the Asian Karate Championships series In the Black Belt division, head protective

gear is mandatory because the head is the primary target of Biyakid

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Some of the black belts with the trophies

Black Belt Division fought ala-original Sikaran, bare-chested

Emily Samillano (extreme right), the only female certified Referee

Philippine Correspondent Erlina Bartolata taking notes

Some of the participants

Open Sikaran Tournament in Rodriguez (Montalban)By: Erlina Bartolata, Philippine Correspondent

On November 29-30, 2013, Alfonso Facurib of Montalban Sikaran, hosted an Open Sikaran Tournament. Al-though the town is now officially known as Rodriguez, some still use the old name of Montalban. Master Jaime Geronimo, 9th Degree Red and White Belt, Executive Vice-President of the World Si-karan Brotherhood of the Philippines and Ernesto Millanes, 9th Degree Red and White Belt NCR Regional Director attended the event. Several seniors, headed by Roberto Pamilar, 9th Degree Red and White Belt, were also present.

John Manungod, 4th Degree Black Belt #3131, Bulacan Alogenes Salas, 4th Degree Black Belt #4195, Caloocan Antonio Salas, 5th Degree Black Belt #4042, Caloocan Marcelo Facurib, 5th Degree Black Belt #3010, Montalban Allan Villamor, 5th Degree Black Belt #3891, Tanay Emily Samillano, 5th Degree Black Belt # 3773, Tanay Adriano Viscayda, 5th Degree Black Belt #3162, Cainta Raulito Robles, 6th Degree Black Belt #2922, Baras Eliseo Neri, 6th Degree Black Belt # 1599, Marikina Tito Singson, 6th Degree Black Belt 3370, Antipolo Elisa Pangilinan, 2nd Degree Black Belt 13-5800076, Baras Jaime Geronimo III, 2nd Degree Black Belt #4973, Baras

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Winners:

Over-all Champion - Baras, Chief Instructor Raulito Robles Second Place - Tanay, Chief Instructor Emily Zamora Samillano Third Place - Cainta. Chief Instructor Adriano Vizcayda

Individual Winners Men’s / Boys Division Lightweight Black Belt Division;

Champion - Ronald Mira, Tanay Second Place - Earvin Bartolata, Tanay Third Place - Kevin Bobis, Baras

Middleweight Black Belt Division:

Champion -Eddie Gabiana, Baras Second Place - Mario Losabio, Tanay Third Place -Mark Vallestero, Cainta

Lightweight White Belt:

Champion - Jopher Mayormita, Baras Second Place - Jeric Salomon, Cainta Third Place - Edmon Bartolata, Baras

Middleweight White Belt:

Champion Richard Francisco, Montalban Second Place ArvinMirabel, Cainta Third Place - Mark Joseph Libelo, Bulacan

Heavyweight White Belt:

Champion - Christian Bonilla, Baras Second Place - Albert Gaupo, Montalban Third Place - Marlon Diaz, Tanay

Kiddies Group A:

1st - Arnold Macawiles - Caloocan 2nd - Alejandro Diaz, Tanay 3rd - Nino Diaz, Caloocan

Group B:

1st - Vladimir Teodoro, Baras 2nd - Jake Canete, Caloocam 3rd - Mark Joseph Facurib, Montalban

Group C:

1st - Wendy Salas, Baras 2nd - Aladin Pasco, Marikina 3rd - Mark Kioseph Facurib, Montalban

Group D:

1st - Mark Lorenz Marquizo, Baras 2nd - Arnold Martino, Antipolo 3rd - Dean Miko Buyon, Tanay

Mini Boys:

1st - Bill Catapusan, Baras 2nd - Kimbert Perez, Baras 3rd - Emmanuel Concepcion, Marikina

Small Boys:

1st - Nik Lopez, Marikina 2nd- Eugene Cuevas, Tanay 3rd - A. Longanes, Cainta

Individual Winners Women’s / Girls Division Kiddies Group A:

1st - Elaine de Vera, Baras 2nd - Lyka Villamor, Baras 3rd - Zaueah Cayetano, Montalban

Kiddies Group B:

1st - Virginia Aguilar, Baras 2nd - Mica Ann Ramos, Cainta 3rd - Katherine Penaflor, Cainta

Kiddies Group C:

1st - Wnedelyn Salas, Baras 2nd - Angela Jane Feliciano, Cainta 3rd - Angela Ocop, Montalban

Mini Girls Division:

1st - Trishia Magno, Tanay 2nd - Hanalyn Ross, Baras 3rd - Cris Antonette Gregorio, Cainta

Small Girls:

1st - Keith Tecson, Marikina 2nd - Lahlin Mendoza, Baras 3rd - Cathy Altamira, Cainta

Poster designed by Patrick Geronimo

Tanay Open Sikaran Tournament By: Erlina Bartolata, Philippine Correspondent

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Some of the participants

The participants

Pugay to Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo

The Supremo

The OfficialsThe trophies and medals for the winnersThe Tournament Officials

Official Invitation

Members of World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines who participated:

1. Baras Sikaran 2. Marikina Sikaran 3. Angono Sikaran 4. Montalban Sikaran 5. Plaridel Bulacan Sikaran 6. San Jose del Monte Bulacan Sikaran 7. Caloocan Sikaran 8. Jalajala sikaran 9.Antipolo sikaran 10.Sampaloc Tanay Sikaran 11. Tanay Sikaran

Other Martial Arts Visitors who participated:

1. Taborda Taekwondo, Morong ,Rizal 2. Alcantara Taekwondo, Tanay, Rizal 3. Consolidated Martial Art Academy , Samapaloc, Tanay 4. El Tong Mo Do Grappler, Sampaloc, Tanay 5.Taekwondo Morong, Rizal

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The Supremo (in wheel chair) in front of the participants and the trophies

Winners:

Over all Team Champion - Tanay Sikaran 2nd place - Baras Sikaran 3rd place - Morong Taekwondo

Individual Winners: Black Belts1st Philip Olvia - Morong 2nd Joshua Casulla - El Tong Mo Do Grappler, Tanay 3rd - Earvin Bartolata - Tanay

Junior Lightweight1st - John Del Dorado - Morong 2nd - Ronald Mira - Tanay 3rd - Kevin Bobis - Baras

Middle Weight1st - Mario Losabio - Tanay 2nd - Raymond Zabala - Valenzuela, Bulacan 3rd - Eddie Gabiana - Baras

Small Men’s Division (White Belt)

1st - Jake Osinar - Tanay 2nd - Joaquin Tan - Morong 3rd - Joel Pranada - Tanay Tae Kwon Do

Large Boys’ Division1st - Melvin LOsabio - Tanay 2nd - John Harvey Vidal - El Tong Mo Do Grappler - Sampaloc, Tanay 3rd - Joey Bendana - Tanay

Medium Boys’ Division1st - Robert Villamayor - Bulacan 2nd - Marlon Diaz - Tanay 3rd - Nino Esguerra - Tanay

Mini Boys’ A1st - John Paul Singson - Antipolo 2nd - Dan Angelo Manalo - Baras 3rd - Eugene Cuevas - Tanay

Mini Boys B1st - Kimbert Perez - Baras 2nd - John Paul Maglunob - Bulacan 3rd - Adrian Rabina - Tanay

Kiddies A1st - Frederick Segundo - Tanay 2nd - Mark Allan Cas - Tanay Tae Kwon Do 3rd - Justin Chualong - Tanay

Kiddies B1st - Genesis Burabod - Taguig 2nd - Arnold Macawili - Antipolo 3rd - Joemar Santos - Tanay Tae Kwon Do

Kiddies C1st - Adrian Samar - Marikina 2nd - Vladimir Teodoro - Baras 3rd - Dennis Balubar - Tanay Tae Kwon Do

Kiddies D1st - Mark Lorenz - Jala-jala 2nd - Rommie Kiezel Galvez - Morong 3rd - Miguel Tagana - Tanay

Girls Division kiddies A

1st - Ashley Rain Ramos - Tanay 2nd - Geli Padel - Tanay 3rd - Meseya Gondra - Jala-jala

Kiddies B1st - Elaine de Vera - Baras 2nd - Jhesalie Tarel - Tanay Tae Kwon Do 3rd - Ma. Lyka Villamayor - Baras

Kiddies C1st - Catherine Joy Vicente - Marikina 2nd- Angela Diaz - Tanay 3rd - Wendelyn Salas - Baras

White Belt Girls Division Small Girls

1st - Lhalin Mendoza - Baras 2nd - Trisha Magno - Tanay 3rd - Alyssa Mae Malaso - Montalban

Medium Girls1st - Judyann Losabio - Tanay 2nd - Divine Grace Maguieue - Tanay Tae Kwon Do 3rd - Janalyn Ross - Baras

Large Girls1st - Catherine Solano - Tanay 2nd - Ellen Aboy - IPC3rd - Catherine Ramos - IPC

Special Awards1st - Diane Conquilla - Baras 2nd - Cajolene Vicente - Marikina 3rd - Candice Ojero - Morong

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World Sikaran Tournaments By: Ruben Santos On May 10, 2014, the Regional Chapter of Canada, led by its Regional Chapter Director Mantas Dante Alambra, will host what is billed as the the 4th World Sikaran Tournament. Venue will be in the City of Winni-peg, Province of Manitoba. Tournament Director is Dante’s son Dastin Alambra. This is the third time that Mantas Dante Alambra, hosted this event. In 1986, the First World Sikaran Tournament was held also in Winnipeg. It was also the venue of the Third World Sikaran Tournament. The Second World Tournament was held in Manila, under the sponsorship of the City of Manila. It is very unfortunate that most of the record and the pictures of the past prestigious albeit misla-beled World Sikaran Tournaments were lost forever when they got drenched by several past typhoons that destroyed the Headquarters of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines. Thanks to the hard work of Philippine Correspondent Erlina Bartolata, she was able to reconstruct some information of the events. It is with a sad heart that we are offering here bits and pieces of these events, and we are begging the pardon of all those concerned for our inability to present a decent record of these noteworthy occasions.

1st World Sikaran Tournament at Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada (1986) Participants: Philippines, Canada, USA, and Australia Token Delegates: France, Germany, Malaysia, England, Saudi Arabia, China

List of Winners Men’s Division: Heavyweight Champion: Candido Pecate 2nd: Fredie Cahatol 3rd: Bert Nagutom

Middleweight:Champion: Carlo Alambra 2nd: Arthur Teodisio 3rd: Osias Banaag

Lightweight:Champion: Albert La Madrid 2nd: Ferdinand Peralta 3rd: Michael Arado

Form Competition:Champion : Bebot Cruto 2nd: Freddie Cahatol 3rd: Mario Cruto

Team Overall StandingSparring: 1st : Canada 2nd : PhilippinesForm Competition:Champion: Canada Runner Up: Philippines

2nd World Sikaran Tournament, Held in Manila, Philippines in March 1994

Participants: Philippines, Canada, USA, and Australia Token Delegates: France, Germany, Malaysia, England, Saudi Arabia, China

HeavyweightChampion 2nd 3rd

Light HeavyweightChampion Henry Bio 2nd Rommel Guiveses 3rd

MiddleweightChampion Lito Jacla 2nd Stephen Prince 3rd

LightweightChampion Paul Villamor 2nd Raymond Villafranca 3rd James Clarkson

Women’s Division Lightweight

Champion Myla Buenvatura 2nd Emily Samillano 3rd Mercy Casadillo

3rd World Sikaran Arnis Championship at Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada on June 1, 1996

No record found or reconstructed

Sikaran International Invitational Tournament In March 1998, another international event was held in Manila, Philippines. It was billed as the Inter-national Invitational Sikaran Championships.

There were 2 teams that participated. Team Philippines and Team North America. The only record that survived is the record that somehow got stuck in the memories of Andy Sanano, and his student Rick Scripter, which they posted in face-book, and which we are reprinting here. “Looking back to 1998, we can see a re-markable event in the Filipino Martial Arts. Guro Andy Sanano, of the Sanano Sikaran Club of Rapid City, South Dakota and Guro Dante Alambra, of Sikaran-Arnis of Winnipeg, Manitoba, formed an

international Sikaran team. The Team prepared to go to the Philippines for the International Sikaran Tournament of 1998. Once in the Philippines and prior to the event the Team spent some time train-ing in Baras, Batangas and Manila. I am not sure but I think the Team also spent some time in Tagaytay. Below is a listing of the results of the partici-pation by the North American Sikaran Team:

1998 International Invitational Sikaran Tournament

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When: March 1998 (around the time of Supremo’s birthday) Where: Rizal Memorial Coliseum, Manila, Philippines Who Participated: Our group represented team North America Head Coach, Team North America Organizer: Dante Solomon Alambra Assistant Coach: Andy Sanano Team Players: Dastin Alambra, O’neal Mendoza, Jeffery Flores, Justin Flores, Andrew Eusebio, Jason O’Cilka, and Rick Scripter.

Results:

1. Dastin Alambra (Gold Sr. Black belt Balangkas, Gold Sr. Black belt lightweight Laban, Silver Sr.Blackbelt Arnis Balangkas) 2. Andy Sanano (Gold 40yrs. and over Black Belt Balangkas) 3. O’neal Mendoza (Bronze - Sr. Black Belt Balangkas, Bronze Sr. Black Belt, Super lightweight Laban) 4. Jeffery Flores (Silver Jr. Black Belt Sayaw, Gold Jr. Black Belt Laban) 5. Justin Flores (Gold Jr. Black Belt Sayaw, Silver Jr. Black Belt Laban) 6. Andrew Eusebio (Bronze Under black Belt 10 and under division Laban) 7. Jason O’Cilka (Silver Sr. Black Belt Light Heavyweight Laban) 8. Rick Scripter (Bronze Sr. Black Belt Heavyweight Laban)

The primary sponsor for Team North America was Greenhills Realty, a company based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The following is a letter of comment regarding the experience of one of the participants in the events in and surrounding the tournament.

“Dear fellow students,

Over the last two weeks I have had the honor of accompanying Guro Sanano, Seniors O’Cilka and many members of the Canadian Sikaran Team. It was an experience that I will never forget. We could write a long story about our experiences. I will try to hit the highlights. The people of the Philippines are basically very poor. However, they are friendly, accommodating, and happy. They show much respect for other people. The Philippine fighters were very good, but when the bouts were over, they were polite and friendly. They came to us and asked if they could please take a picture with us. They are very upbeat and positive. A good example is that they do not call themselves fighters, they call themselves “players.” Elders are always held in the highest regard. As a post-script to a statement, a much younger person would add “po,” meaning, “with much respect.” Example: “salamat-po” or “thank you, with much respect.” Also, elders and youngsters alike, when they had to walk between other people, would lower their arms with straightened fingers and a slightly hunched back and slightly lowered head, as a show of respect. Both the Canadian and the Philippine players who placed in the tournament demonstrated to me a tremendous amount of humility. Let us remember that humility is simply a lack of arrogance and is not synonymous with “wimpy-ness.” On the contrary, a person with true humbleness, knows his rightful place in the world and amongst its’ people and is unfettered by the need to “prove” him or herself.

Thanks again to the club members who kept us up and running while we were gone.

Sincerely, Rick Scripter

P.S. It is clear that looking back at the tournament is a view of a significant event in the development and recent history of Sikaran and the Filipino Martial Arts.”

Pictures From the 1998 Sikaran International Invitational Tournament

More pictures of unidentified participants...

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Andy Sanano enroute to his winning a gold medal....

4th World Sikaran Arnis Championships at Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada - May 10, 2014Tournament Information

- Tournament Date: Saturday, May 10, 2014 - Tournament Location: Canad Inns Destination Centre, 1415 Regent Ave. W, Winnipeg,MB, CAN R2C 3B2 - Tournament Host: Punong Guro Dante S. Alambra - WSBP Canada Director - Tournament Director: Punong Guro Dastin Alambra, dastin@sikaranarnis.net - Tournament Registration fee: $150 CAN (includes: unlimited events, ticket for celebration dinner post tournament)

* Note with your registration you are automatically entered into all eligible divisions in both the 4th World Sikaran Tournament and World Traditional Martial Arts Open

- Payable in cash or money order - Make money order payable to:Sikaran Arnis School Of Martial Arts Canada - Note if mailing in registration pay by money order - Registration will be processed once funds have cleared - Tournament Registration and fees due: Monday, March 31, 2014 - Spectator Fees (For non-competitors in tournament): $10.00 – 6 years and older

Children 5 years and under are free

- Celebration Dinner tickets (non-competitors): $50.00 (12 and over)

$35.00 (11 and under)

- Official Tournament Hotel: Canad Inns Destination Centre 1415 Regent Ave. W, Winnipeg, MB, CAN R2C 3B2 ph: (204) 667-5560 fx: (204) 667-5913 tf: 1-888 33-CANAD (22623)

- Prior to registration into the 4th World Sikaran Tournament please contact your country’s Team Organizer to ensure you are eligible to participate in this event

Country World Team Organizers

Philippines Jimmy Geronimo/ Meliton Geronimo Jr. United States Henry Bio Australia Jose Mari Diestro Saudi Arabia Ian Orlain Solano Canada Dante Solomon Alambra

Scheduled Events for the 4th World Sikaran Tournament/1st World Traditional Martial Arts Tournament

Tuesday, May 6 - Delegates begin departing from their respective countries Wednesday, May 7 - Delegates begin arriving to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Thursday, May 8 - Delegates continue to arrive from their respective countries

Day – Rest day & guided tours of Winnipeg 1800 – Senior Instructor Meeting & Dinner

Friday, May 9 - Day - Guided tours of Winnipeg 1830 – Welcome dinner for all delegates (participants own expense)

Saturday, May 10 - *Note with your registration you are automatically entered into all eligible divisions in both the 4th World Sikaran Tournament and World Traditional Martial Arts Open 0900 – 4th World Sikaran Tournament opening ceremonies 0930 – 4Th World Sikaran Tournament divisions begin

1. Traditional Sayaw Divisions 2. Tradition Weapons Divisions 3. Continuous Sikaran Laban Divisions 4. World vs. World Sayaw & Laban Competition

World Traditional Martial Arts Open Begins

5. Arnis Point Sparring 6. Patalim Point Sparring 7. Traditional Forms Divisions 8. Traditional Weapons Divisions 9. Point Sparring Divisions

1800 – Grand Finally Show, Celebration and Recognitions Dinner (participants own expense)

Sunday, May 11

1100 – Seminars from each Grand Master on a chosen topic 1500 – Refreshments and Snacks post seminar

Monday, May 12 - Delegates begin departing from Winnipeg to return back to their respective countries

Celebration Dinner

5:00pm Evening Show - Gold Medal Sparring Matches - Gold Medal Sayaw Showcase 6:00pm Cocktails begin 6:30pm Opening Prayer 7:00pm Dinner Served 7:30pm Speech by Tournament Host 7: 45pm Speech by Grand Master of World Sikaran Organization/Brotherhood or Designate

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8:00pm Awarding of the Top Athlete for each country: Philippines, United States, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Canada 8:15pm World Sikaran Organization of Canada recognizes community members that have supported the continued growth of WSO/WSB of Canada 8:30pm World Sikaran Organization of Canada recognizes Col. (ret) Meliton C. Geronimo, Master Jimmy Geronimo, and Master Meliton Geronimo Jr. by presentation of Lifetime Achievement Award 9:00pm Dance floor is open

Philippine Delegation to the 4th World Sikaran Tournament of 2014

The above list of delegates of the Philippine Team was published and circulated in November 2013. Howev-er, there are rumors that this list has been changed several times. There were postings in facebook that says if any of the delegates fail to attend a meeting their name will be dropped from the list.

Special Arnis SectionReprinted with permission from seletariasikaran-arnis.com

I hope that my fellow students in martial arts (we are all and will always be students) read through this article with an open mind and leave their slippers of judgment and conclusions at the door before they enter. A mind

without judgment and prejudice is closer to realizing the truth than that of a mind constrained with the burden of bias.

The Classical Era

The massive wave of Filipino martial art systems that came into the scene and out of the woodwork in the last three decades is phenomenal. A whole slew of Grandmasters and styles were developed when before were unheard of.

However, what is not widespread knowledge in the history and development of these systems is that in the pre-Remy Amador Presas and the Modern Arnis phenomenon era (prior to circa 1960s), there was no organized and systematic approach in teaching Arnis, Kali, and Eskrima. Before the Modern Arnis of Remy A. Presas, the Arnis masters (or maestros as they were called)

imparted their students, who were outside of their family line, with limited knowledge due to issues of loyalty and secrecy. Arnis was taught in a pedigree, and knowledge in the arts of the blade and the stick were held in great secrecy by its practitioners, while the influence and pressures of the dominating western cultures of the Spaniards and the Americans entombed any chance of the re-emergence of the art as a national symbol of the Filipino’s cultural strength. Thus Arnis was doomed to die a silent death. A very important aspect of their training was that most modern concepts of the art seen today were absent, especially the most civil way to teach Arnis where the student will not be hurt badly or in a way that minimized injuries. Secrecy and pain were synonymous with the name Arnis to non-practitioners.

Arnis: Classical vs. Modern By Carlomagno Seletaria Lakan Tatlo (Third Degree Arnis Black Belt) Modern Arnis of the Philippines Second Degree Sikaran Black Belt World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines

Should a Martial Artist Cling to the Classical Methods or Catch Up with the Times and Modernize?

On January 15, 2013, a meeting was held at the headquarters of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines regarding the Philippine Delegation to the 4th World Sikaran Tournament in Canada. Result of the meeting are as follows:

February 1: Mass Training of All Players To Canada February 23: Meeting Of All Delegates To Canada/Finalization of Requirements, Schedule for an Interview with the Canadian Embassy! March 9: Fund-Raising Tournament at Baras, Rizal April 27: Fund-Raising Tournament at Marikina, Rizal

As of the adjournment of the meeting, nothing has changed in the list of the members of the delega-tion. However, no one will be surprised if the the final list will be different, which will be personally favorable to some people rather than the association and the country.

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The Maestros clung to their traditions. One such was that they believed the cane was sacred, because it held the power of life and death, and the soul of the art, and with it the soul of the ancestors who wielded it. Thus blocking was directed to the hand and the forearm and not at the cane itself. This mentality in teach-ing proved to weed out students who were not actually serious in learning and at the same time discouraged large numbers of students who got hurt and sub-sequently lost interest in learning the art. This in turn slowly led Arnis to the brink of extinction. The Maestros did not have a progressive system of teaching both on the striking and blocking techniques. It was largely a notion of teaching technique after tech-nique in a disorganized fashion. The sticks were swung in a very ferocious and uncontrolled fash-ion, simply disregarding that in or-der to learn and minimize injuries there has to be control in practice. The students were given tools, yet no instructions for its complete comprehension. The students did not learn the techniques in a sen-sible order and with it no progres-sion on the different applications of the methods, as most Maestros focused largely on one style (i.e. Abanico style for one or Contrada for another) and neglected to expand the fundamentals into a more comprehensive system. This unorganized and deficient approach of the art in its “rawest” form, though not entirely nega-tive in itself, did not help in the propagation of Arnis. For if one can only grasp a single aspect of the art, how can he/she continue to teach it well and proceed with his/her own path? This is akin to

a painter who has but one color to use when he wants to paint an entire rainbow. His picture would be incomplete. These men were not fools however. They knew how to fight. They knew the method of combat. They knew how to apply the art, yet like any other doctrine or school of thought, it started with an idea, some sort of truth. A wise man realized and experienced the truth, yet he did not set it down and write in stone. He instead, preferred to keep it raw in his mind and the minds of others. As time passed, the wise man passed away as well, and his disciples took what has been shared, what was given, and what was raw and vibrant, and turned it into doctrine and crystallized it as what was, what is, and what always will be. What was once alive and real has been dried of its life force, ceremonies were fabricated, the truth set to adhere to critical standards and the approach formalized, and the wisdom became a tradition.

Modernization

Then came Remy Ama-dor Presas and his revolutionary style of teaching in the form of Modern Arnis. In the late ‘60s the art started gaining ground in the city of Bacolod. By the ‘70s it had reached Manila and became nationally renowned. Through his efforts and countless exhibitions later, Modern Arnis had caught the eye of Col. Arsenio de Borja, director of the Philippine Ama-teur Athletic Federation (PAAF), and encouraged and supported Arnis to be taught as a regular subject in Physical Education throughout various colleges in the Philippines. This in turn led

Remy A. Presas on a crusade to re-introduce the art of Arnis to the general public and Modern Arnis as the first Filipino martial art to be taught in high schools, colleges, and universities in the Philippines. Remy A. Presas’ wife, Rose-mary Pascual Presas, renowned for the title “Mother of Modern Arnis”, aided him in his dream of reintroducing the art of Arnis, donating her years of experience as a college teacher in devising a modern approach and develop-ing a progressive curriculum from which Arnis can be comprehen-sive in a way that was void of all the classical burden that nearly extinguished it from the Philip-pine culture. Many of the anti-quated techniques in Arnis have been modified in order to be easy to learn and to avoid injuries to students, and its presentation to help students grasp the intricate styles and techniques without sacrificing the soul of the art. As a fruit of their labor the first book of the art entitled, Modern Arnis: Stick Fighting was published in

1974 and remains as a template of the teaching curriculum taught today by its practitioners. Controversial as it may sound, Remy A. Presas was the first to devise a 12 striking struc-ture of the angles of attack. The previous methods did not have such an order, which explains why it was more challenging to learn. The students were taught how to control the strikes in practice, and when to let loose in combat. This type of practice ensured not only safety of the students, but a simple step-by-step pattern in muscle memory. After Remy A. Presas 12 angles of attack and the success of the methodology of teaching that Modern Arnis was gaining, other Eskrimadors found it necessary to pattern their striking order from that of Modern Arnis, this in turn helped in the propagation of the Filipino martial arts in general.

An Arnisador’s Values

Seeing the fears of the old masters in the misuse and disloy-alty of students in the art, Remy A. Presas devised and empha-sized morals values in Arnis in the form of the Six Cardinal Principles. These principles emphasized that an Arnis player must be of good character, sincere to himself, his partners and his teachers on his intentions in learning and prac-ticing, a person of discipline, a person of self-control, a person who treats others with the same etiquette they would wish upon them, and most importantly, a person who values his or her loy-alty to the teacher that he or she owed so much of his knowledge. The opposite of these values or the misuse of the art is a spit and slap to the face of those who

came before them.

Extension of the Hand

In the revolution that Modern Arnis stirred in the Filipino martial arts, the classical way of teaching was the first to go, as Remy A. Presas empha-sized that Arnis can be practiced just as safely as any other sport. Instead of hitting the hand and forearm in practice, the stick would hit the stick, or in cases of stick versus empty hand, it would be with controlled force. The stick of course, is just an extension of the hand, and whatever weapon an Arnisador can wield may be effective and lethal when one understands the concept of Ex-tension of the Hand. This is very important in learning the essen-tials of Arnis, and this methodol-ogy of teaching attracted new and large amount of enthusiastic students. Arnis was no longer seen just as a violent man’s game as it had been perceived, but that it can transcend itself as an aesthetic and cinematic art, as a sportsman’s passion, as an effec-tive self-defense technique, and of course, as a lethal form of self-defense.

The Essential Concept

Webster’s New Universal Unabridged Dictionary defines Modern as, characteristic of pres-ent and recent time, contempo-rary; not antiquated or obsolete. Modern Arnis was founded on a basic concept that one must adapt, evolve, and grow in accor-dance with what is necessary in the moment, so that one can sur-vive. Almost Darwinist in a sense, but not necessary as brutal. Remy A. Presas modernized classical Arnis so that it would catch the

public’s eye, and in turn helped the Filipino realize the beauty of the art, and saved it the from the state of cultural oblivion. Tech-niques that were forbidden to be taught were exposed in the art, such as the empty hand disarm-ing against stick, of which the Maestros deferred from teach-ing, because the very notion of teaching someone how to take away the stick of an Arnis player was absolutely abhorred, think-ing that the emphasis was that the stick should be the one that would end up to be much more superior and in turn come out as winner. However, that had to be changed. Such mentality was neither practical nor beneficial for the propagation of Arnis. And so Modern Arnis broke ground by defying classical methods of teaching, and coping with the necessities of the times. Growth has been emphasized, the force that drove the will of the art must be fluid and never crystallized, for there was no growth in stillness or preserving tradition, as this very notion defied the essential ele-

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ment from which Modern Arnis was concocted from.

A Criticism of Today’s Modern Arnis

Since the death of my grandfather, Remy A. Presas, in August of 2001 in an uncomfort-able care home in Victoria, Cana-da, various factions have contin-ued to expand his legacy and the legacy of Modern Arnis. Whether it be my family’s MARPPIO, Kelly Worden’s NSI, Tim Hartman’s WMAA, Rodel Dagooc’s AAII, Jerry de la Cruz’s ACP, Vic Sanchez, and too many others to mention worldwide (of which most are legitimate and some are hacks), their efforts ensure that the teach-ings of Remy A. Presas will not be forgotten. But then again history can inadvertently repeat itself. With no clear and present leadership in the art today, people cling to what have been taught to them,

and even worse, claim that it is better than the other, or its pre-decessor. Arnis is Arnis. For one to think that: This is the way it was taught to me, and to keep the art alive and the Professor alive in me, this is the way I shall keep it, is thinking backwards. One must grow with the art and the art must continue to flow. On another note, don’t limit yourself to one aspect of the art, just because it is contem-porary, or it’s what the professor emphasized,” whether it is the Sinawali techniques or the Tapi-Tapi method. Take for example, a student who practices his tapi-tapi drills so rigorously, that he focuses on it day and night. So much so that he envelops himself into believing that Tapi-Tapi is a martial art of its own, and not part of the broad spectrum of techniques that Modern Arnis has to offer. After all, how often do you have an aggressive encoun-

ter with someone on the streets with good knowledge of Tapi-Ta-pi? Oh, and the fact that you and him are both armed with a rattan stick! And the fact that you both engage in attack in such manner? In this case, the word lethal takes an entirely different definition. Liberate yourself from the negative mentality that the old maestros have had and value their strategy in combat. What it really comes down into is that Arnis is Arnis, and it should not get any more confusing than that. Do not crystallize it; share it, and share it and continue to share it. The old maestros have died with their own techniques unknown and unshared because of their para-noia in loyalty and secrecy. Modern Arnis is not just a mar-tial art, it is a way of discipline and morality, and to learn it is to express one’s fluid knowledge in an uninhibited and unrestrained manner.

Aspiring actor / director / producer Carlomagno Seletaria “flies” over the hills of Hollywood, California

Evolution of Sikaran Uniform

1972 to the present white upper and red pants with corresponding belt

Mid 1950’s to 1972 all white with cor-responding belt

Discovery of the Philippines to mid 1950’s white camisa tsino and red pants

Sikaran Uniform By: Emmanuel es Querubin

The wearing of uniform started to identify social status. The uniform separates and char-acterizes class, kinds, or catego-ries. Among all uniforms, the military uniform stands out as the most distinguishable. The wear-ing of military uniform started in ancient times to identify a skilled warrior from the working class and the rest of the populace. The military uniform is a standardized and distinctive clothing (or lack of it like the gladiators) intended for identification or display, and to intimidate the enemy. The uni-

form identified the friend from the enemy. It also identified the rank within a unit and the uni-form distinguishes the wearer as an element of a larger entity. The military uniform imbues the sol-dier military discipline and bear-ing. In societies like the present, where the military plays a major role in the governance of a coun-try, the uniform serves to impress the population and the soldiers alike. Military uniform establishes a rigid direction from a central authority. Military uniforms have changed a great deal, from the

simple one color uniform such as khaki or olive drab or fatigue, or grey to various shades of “digital” prints to afford more camouflage and less chance of detection. Meliton C. Geronimo, be-ing a military man and aware of the advantages of a uniform de-cided that Sikaran must also have its own distinctive uniform.

Military Officer Uniform

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Left: “Uniform” of the farmer, red pants and bare-chested. Ramon Valdenor execut-ing Sikaran’s Hampas sa Lupa. Being bare-chested presented a problem for female Sikaranistas

Military Officer in Camouflage

Police Officer in SWAT Uniform

Deputy Sheriff Uniform

All white uniform of Sikaran (Philippine Karate, in the 1950’s, 1960’s, until 1972)

In the early stages of Sikaran, there was no such thing as a uniform. The farmers engage in Sikaran wearing their work clothes or even their everyday clothes, which most of the time is a white camisa tsino (Chinese shirt) and red work pants. Nor-mally, while working in the field, the farmer is bare-chested with red pants rolled up to the knees. After work, for casual wear they roll down the pants and wear a

white camisa tsino. The white camisa tsino and the red pants is attire not of choice but of con-sequence. This camisa tsino only comes in white and the work pants only come in red. Since they are the most common and easy to come by, they were the most economical piece of normal clothing. The Katipuneros (revolu-tionaries against the Spaniards) wear the red pants of the farmer, because they are mostly farmers. Red has different mean-ings in different cultures. It may mean prosperity, joy, and pas-sionate love. Being the color of blood, red also symbolizes vital-ity, energy, life, boldness, and adventure. In mythology red is the color of Mars, the god of war.

In the Greek culture, Red denotes magical power and super human heroism. The red pants became syn-onymous with Sikaran, because Sikaran is a physical art of the farmers. The farmers engage in Sikaran, bare-chested and bare-footed. It was the “uniform” in the early stage of Sikaran. It was not a “prescribed uniform” in Sikaran, it just so happened that this is what they wear while working in the fields. In the 1950’s the most popular martial arts were Japa-nese Judo and Karate. Uniform of both arts was white upper shirt and white lower pants, with a belt the color of which designates the grade or the rank. Meliton Geron-imo aligned Sikaran with Karate,

since both arts are similar in the sense that they are both empty hand-fighting arts. For expedi-ency and to conform to the rules of the Asian Karate Association, Meliton Geronimo adopted the all white uniform and even named his association Karate (Sikaran) Brotherhood of the Philippines. Henceforth, Sikaran was referred to as Philippine Karate. In 1970, the Asian Karate Association was dissolved and replaced by the World Union of Karate-do Organizations (WUKO). Like the Asian Karate Association, WUKO mandated the all white Karate uniform on all its members. In 1972, Meliton Geroni-mo, after a long and life-changing discussion with the surviving Sikaran elders, it was decided that it was high time that Sikaran be propagated and promoted for what it is, an independent fight-ing art of Filipino origin and not a style of Karate. Meliton Geronimo dropped all references to Sikaran as Filipino Karate and changed

the Karate (Sikaran) Brotherhood of the Philippines to simply Si-karan Brotherhood of the Philip-pines, and later the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines. Meliton Geronimo also decided that Sikaran must have its own distinctive uniform. In ad-dition, the Sikaran elders whose experience and knowledge acquired through the ages came to the rescue. They suggested that Sikaran’s uniform must be patterned after the same attire used in Sikaran in the past. The red pants of the farmer, with the white camisa tsino for casual wear. The decision was not very difficult. Red pants and white shirt are the right colors. Red, the color of blood, denotes bold-ness, courage, and perseverance. It means the mental and moral strength to resist opposition. Red implies firmness of mind and will to face extreme hardship, danger, and difficulty. Red suggests an ingrained capacity in meeting the opponent with fortitude and resiliency. Red evokes the mental-ity or temperament to hold up one’s morale when threatened or opposed. White, like Red, is an inherently positive color. White is always associated with purity, understanding, spirituality, and perfection. The color white, being the opposite of black, depicts the good guy as the one in white and the bad guy in black. In religious figures, angels are typically de-picted as wearing white or having a white glow. White is a bright and bril-liant color that can illuminate the darkness. The color white influences mental clarity, promotes purifica-

tion of thoughts and actions, and removes prejudice and pre-con-ceived notions. With the color decided, it was time to finally decide the design. There were suggestions to have white pants and red shirt. There were suggestions to just adopt the red pants without shirt in order to immortalize the farm-ers of yesteryears who developed Sikaran. Majority of the “sexist” Sikaranistas favored this selection. However, it presented a major problem. In the 16th century and beyond, Sikaran was an activity that was limited to the farmers and “male chauvinists.” In modern society, Sikaran is no longer “a male only” organized extracur-ricular recreation. By having different uniforms for males and females will only promote segre-gation, isolation, and discrimina-tory barriers. Since the signature weapon of Sikaran is the biyakid (spinning heel kick) it was only natural the red pants, the color of blood, be used to inflict “blood” on the opponent. Red pants were thereafter decided to be the lower garment. Both male and female may wear red pants rep-resenting a decent and identical uniform. The white upper camisa tsino was modified to be sturdier, more durable and impressionable uniform. Instead of the flimsy material of the white camisa tsino, it was replaced by heavier cotton material that will be more discreet for female use. On March 10, 1972, Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo unveiled the official Sikaran uni-form, red cotton pants and white cotton shirt. He further ordered that in every official Sikaran event, only the official white and red Sikaran uniform must be worn.

Search and Rescue Officer in Uniform

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ryu Karate under Master Tatsuo Shimabuku. In 1963 he was released from the US Marines. After his release from the Marines, Ed worked as a Gas Tur-bine Technician at the same time teaching Isshin-ryu Karate to vari-ous law enforcement agencies and personnel. He also joined the tournament circuit winning sev-eral medals and trophies. There were times when he hits the competition scene all week long In 1966 he married Fran

Delio and they established their first Isshin-ryu Karate Dojo in New Canaan, Connecticut. The school was successful with Ed as the instructor and Fran the Business Manager. The name of Ed Brown became synonymous with martial arts that he was sought after to give demonstrations, seminars, and workshops. Their small dojo cannot accommodate the num-ber of prospective students. His full-time job also did not give him enough time to teach. In 1980, he quit his job and opened up his second dojo in Norwalk, Connect-icut. Enrollment in both the dojos exceeded 250 students. In 1986, The Isshin-ryu World Karate Association (IWKA) invited Ed Brown to give a dem-onstration in Gushikawa, Okinawa during an IWKA Tournament. Ed Brown, his wife and their daugh-ter took an extended vacation in Okinawa to demonstrate his vari-ous feats of strength like break-ing 15 bricks, ripping cards and phone books, and others. He also

Official Sikaran uniform, white upper shirt and red lower pants. Appropriate for both male and female Sikaranista, children, and adult alike

(Left) September 1994, Soke Ed Brown breaks two bricks with a knife-hand strike. (Middle) August 1995 breaking 15 bricks with ox-jaw strike. (Right) March 2013, performing Sinawali

Warriors Never Die - They Just Fade Away By: Emmanuel es Querubin

“Old soldiers never die, they just fade away” is a phrase taken from a US Army ballad. It earned fame when General Doug-las MacArthur used the phrase to end his military career. Ed Brown is no General Douglas MacArthur, however, he is also a warrior through and through in every sense of the word. At a very young age, he en-listed in the United States Marine Corps in 1952, the same year he started his martial arts training under a Police Officer from his hometown of Milford, Connecti-cut named Jake Echonrode. He was introduced to the Isshin-ryu style of Okinawan Karate, which gave him a solid foundation in the martial arts. In 1961, after his promo-tion to Black Belt in Isshin-ryu Karate he became hand-to-hand combat instructor in the US Ma-rine Corps at Camp Lejuene. While in the Marines, Ed was stationed in Okinawa where he furthered his study of Isshin-

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took the time to learn the similari-ties and differences of the various schools of Karate through the introduction of Katsushi (Katsuya) Miyahira, Chairman of the Karate Federation of Okinawa.

Upon their return to the States Ed Brown earned his Doctorate and Professorship in Martial Arts Kine-siology. He decided to expand his martial arts horizon and sought instructions in Sikaran and Arnis de Abaniko, under Grandmas-ter Meliton Geronimo, and Vee Artnis Jitsu under Grandmaster Florendo Visitacion. His interest in learning Sikaran led him to be a member of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines, with registration No. 843. Incorporating all the

Filipino, Japanese and Chinese arts he learned, Professor Ed Brown and his wife Fran estab-lished the Chairo-Kan Bushi Shindo (Brown Style Warrior Heart Way) earning him and his wife the title Soke and Soke-Dai (Founder). They also published a martial arts book entitled Masters, Pioneers, and Legends. The book included Filipino Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo of Sikaran, and Grandmaster Florendo Visita-

cion of Vee Arnis-Jitsu. Likewise, they sponsored two prestigious annual Karate tournaments, The Northeastern Open Karate Tournament in April of each year, and the U.S. Invitational Karate

Tournament in October. The top competitive fighters all over the country participated in these tournaments, which included the competitive facets of the art like kumite (free-fighting), kata (formal exercises), and tameshiwari (breaking techniques). In 1992, they constructed a humble but traditional Hombu Dojo (General Head-

quarters) complete with oriental garden, a teahouse, temple, and outside training ground with makiwara (punching board). Martial arts grandmasters who influenced his Chairo-kan Bushi Shindo, such as Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo, Grandmaster Florendo Visitacion and Grand-masters Kichiro Shimabuku and Angi Uezu have been entertained in the Hombu Dojo at various times. In 1997, after being nomi-nated and inducted in over 30 martial arts hall of fame, Soke Ed Brown and Soke-dai Fran Brown established the Martial Arts Mas-ters, Pioneers, and Legends Hall of Fame. From 1997 to 2001, over 340 martial arts masters were in-ducted into this undertaking from around the globe. This prestigious event brought together many great grandmasters, masters, and teachers together and was inducted to their most deserved place of honor. In 2007, Fran Brown unexpectedly passed away. Soke Ed Brown was devastated by the passing away of his bride, and business partner of 41 years. Soke Ed Brown dedicated his time and energy in teaching, in improving the Hombu Dojo, and visiting the other martial arts masters that he befriended along the way, like Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo. In 2008, Soke Ed Brown took a trip to the Philippines to attend the birthday celebration of Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo. While in the Philippines he met a member of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines named Lilia Aboganda. They got acquainted, fell in love, and tied the knot of matrimony on March

Special Guest of Honor Soke Ed brown, during the 2013 Sikaran Festival. With him are Elpidio Seletaria, Jr. WSBP International Coordinator, and Ernesto Millanes,

NCR Regional Director

Soke Ed Brown trained in Sikaran and Arnis de Abaniko under Grandmaster

Meliton Geronimo

With Grandmaster Florendo Visitacion of Vee Arnis-Jitsu

With Kichiro Shimabuku, of Isshin-ryu World Karate Association (IWKA)

14, 2009. Soke Ed Brown adopted Lilia’s three sons from a previous marriage, Michael, Marc Lester, and Miguel Julius. The newlyweds shuttled back and forth from Limay, Bataan, hometown of Lilia, and

Connecticut while construction of their new home in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan was going on. In December 2012, they spent their Christmas in their new home. Soke Ed Brown left the manage-ment of his Hombu Dojo and the Chairo-Kan Bushi Shindo to Tommy Vitte, his most senior Stu-dent. Ed and Lilia stayed in the Philippines until after the 86th birthday celebration of Grand-master Meliton Geronimo and the Sikaran Festival where Soke Ed Brown demonstrated his expertise in Japanese Kobudo (weapons). On June 29-30, Ed and Lilia drove from Connecticut to New Jersey to attend the Second Annual Sikaran Gathering in the United States. A couple of months later they went back to the Philippines, hoping to again spend Christmas in their new home. However, it was not meant to be. The day

before Christmas, Soke Ed Brown succumbed to cancer but not before he met several officers and members of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines who spent Christmas eve with

him at the hospital. Finally the martial arts warrior lost the bout of his life without a medal but a headstone that marks his grave. His passing away is a great loss to the martial arts. Rest in Peace, my friend.

In March 2009, Lilia Aboganda and Soke Ed Brown tied the knot of matrimony

Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo, and Soke Ed Brown with Raquel Geronimo (left)

and Lilia Brown (right)

Soke Ed Brown with World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines Executive Vice-President

Jaime Geronimo

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From Around the Brotherhood Sanano Bothoan (School) of Sikaran, Rapid City, South Dakota

“Pinakikita mo namin na buo pa ang Gumaca Chapter sa pamumuno ni Mantas Ven Segui.”... August Villaver

From The Desk of the Editor-At-Large Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. 9th Degree Red and White Belt WSBP International Vice-President

He is the son of Grandmaster Meliton C. Geronimo and the third generation heir to the Geronimo Sikaran lineage. He came from the line of Sikaran haris. His Grandfather, Cipriano Geronimo was the last Hari of Baras, Rizal. His Great-grandfather Bonifacio Geronimo, was the last Hari ng mga Hari. Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo has issued a Legal Declaration, naming his son Administrative Head of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines, when he steps down as President.

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SIKARAN GOLDEN JUBILEE

On November 6. 2016, The World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines will celebrate its gold-en anniversary. It was on November 6, 1966 when the Asian Karate Association, composed of Japan, Korea, China and the Phillipines recognized Sikaran as a distinct unarmed fighting art of Filipino origin and named Meliton Geronimo Grandmaster with the rank of 10th Degree Red Belt. This jubilee will be marked by festivities worthy of this grand event. The First Sikaran Hall of Fame will be held in conjunction with the Golden Anniversary. In 1966, the original plan was to invite the Grandmasters who were invovled in the recognition of Sikaran as a distinct fighting art from the Philippines on its 50th Anniversary. But this will not be so. Grandmasters from Japan, Kyojiro Furusawa and Koichi Kondo have passed away. Grandmasters Dr. Kwai Byeung Yun of Ji Do Kwan Kong Soo Doo, and Hwang Kee of Moo Doo Kwan Tang Soo Doo of Korea have likewise passed away. With the dissolution of the Asian Karate Association in 1970, we have lost contact with Chinese Grandmaster Chua Tiong Ki, but there were uncomfirmed reports that he to passed away.. Only Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo is still alive, albeit at 86th years old, he is suffering from the ill effects of several bouts with stroke. From the early beginnings of Sikaran in the Philippines, it has now spread its wings in the four corners of the world. The golden jubilee is still 3 years away but preparations are now being taken to insure that it will be the greatest event in Sikaran until Novermber 6, 2066, when Sikaran celebrates its centennial or diamond anniversary.

Special AnnouncementsFeb,23,2014 9:00 Am: World Sikaran Arnis Brotherhood of the Philippines, Ghq. Need Strict Attendance of Regional Directors, Chief Instructors, Instructors, And Senior Black Belts,

Agenda: Election For 2014 Officer of World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines Meeting of the Philippine Delegation to 4th World Tournament to Canada, Bring The Following. Passport, And Supporting Documents

Sa Darating na Tournament Sa Baras Sa March 9 2014 Need Din Po Namin Ang 100% Attendance Ng Mga Clubs At Black Belts And Members. Magiging Guest Po Natin Si Vice President Jejomar Binay. Kailangan Po Ang Suporta Nating Lahat. Mabuhay Ang Pandaigdigang Kapatirang Sikaran Ng Pilipinas. Ipakita Natin Ang Solidong KapatiranG May Pagkakaisa.

Pugay Po Sa Inyo!!!!

Attention all Sikaran members!!! Mayor KC Robles Approved March 3 to 9 as Sikaran Week... Starting March 3 there will be mass training for all Municipal .Employees, School Officials, students, and barangay officials. Training will include sparring, and all other aspects of Sikaran training. On March 9 there will be a mass pa-rade with street dancers of all Barangay Officials, Municipal employees, and students from all school levels here in Baras!

RELEASED IN 2011….

Sikaran Instructional Video Volume 1

Written, Produced and Directed by: Elpidio Seletaria jr. 7th Degree Black Belt (#1487) Hercules, California, USA www.Sikaranarnis.com

Coming Soon…!!!

Sikaran Instructional Video Volume 2 (Advanced Sikaran with Defensive Tactics, etc…)

To Order Contact: ELPIDIO SELETARIA - jseletaria1542@yahoo.com

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For the Order Form - Click Here

Hot Off The Press Sikaran Teacher’s Training Academy

Book One

Sikaran Academy Book Two Coming Soon

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Arnis Books By Louelle Lledo, Jr., 9th Degree Red and White Belt #326To Order Contact: matawgurolou@yahoo.com

To Order Contact:

Louelle Lledo, Jr. - matawgurolou@yahoo.com Andy Sanano, Jr. - matawgurosanano@gmail.com

Arnis de Mano Teacher’s Training Handbook Series By Two Sikaran Mantas

Louelle Lledo, Jr. (Reg. 326) And Andy Sanano, Jr. (Reg. 844)

Important Announcement

These Four Manuals Have Been Consolidated into One Book

SIKARANBuilds Fitness

Fitness Builds Confidence

Confidence Builds Productivity

Productivity Builds A Better Citizen

A Better Citizen Builds A Better Country

A Better Country Builds A Better and Peaceful World

Sikaran Builds A Fit, Confident, Productive and Better Citizen

Who Builds A Better Country and A More Peaceful World©

SIKARAN WORDS OF WISDOM “When faced with the inevitable you will fall back to your level of training”