- South Bay FMA Club

Dedicated to the Filipino Martial Arts and the Culture of the Philippines
Special Issue
2010
FMAdigest
Publisher
Steven K. Dowd
FMAdigest Representatives
Marc Lawrence
Contributors
Peachie Baron Saguin
Frank Aycocho
Fred Evrard
Contents
Publishers Desk
Man of the Year
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri
2
Woman of the Year
Katulong Guro Hiu Lila
10
School of the Year
Magdaraog Martial Arts
14
Organization of the Year
United States Filipino Martial Arts Federation (USFMAF)
19
Masters of the Pen
Jeff “Stickman” Finder
Marc Lawrence
22
25
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and Publisher Steven K. Dowd.
The FMAdigest is published quarterly. Each issue features practitioners
of martial arts and other internal arts of the Philippines. Other features include
historical, theoretical and technical articles; reflections, Filipino martial arts,
healing arts and other related subjects.
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The information in the FMAdigest is a compilation of many sources. If there
is any misinformation or information that is not given the proper credit, please
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FMAdigest 1297 Eider Circle Fallon, NV 89406
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Publishers Desk
Kumusta
Senator Miguel Zubiri a practitioner from the past a Senator in the Philippines presently, introduced
and pushed through the Arnis Bill of Law, Republic Act No. 9850, an act declaring Arnis as the National martial arts and sport of the Philippines, a historical piece of legislation which was signed by President Arroyo on
December 11, 2009.
Katulong Guro Hiu Lila Co-Founder of the Kali Majapahit School in Singapore with her husband Guro
Fred Evrard. Even though she is Chinese Hakka, born and raised in Tahiti, she fell in love with the Filipino
martial arts in 1999. Tough boxer and kickboxer, comfortable with any kind of weapons (both hands), this exlawyer, gentle and feminine lady is listened too and respected by all her students (kids and adults).
The Magdaraog Martial Arts School is located in Legaspi, Philippines and to say the least it is a very
unique school. Actually Grandmaster Roy B. Magdaraog refers to his school as an “All weather training area”.
Some of the seasoned practitioners that have actually trained in the Philippines in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s will
relate and have fond memories of the old training that they might have gone through while training.
The USFMAF was established in June 2006, has continuously promulgated and promoted the Filipino
martial arts combat and sports competition. Continuously demanding from the Organizations referee’s and
judges honesty, fairness, and professional conduct. Demanding from the competitors’ knowledge, skill, and a
pride and professionalism that demonstrates truly great competition and a representation of the Filipino martial
arts fighter.
Again this year the FMAdigest has chosen a couple of outstanding writers for the Master of the Pen
recognition. Jeff Finder who has written for the FMAdigest many times and wrote the “Dinuguan for Brunch”
column / editorial. Also recognized for his writing abilities, research, and continuous promotion of the Filipino
martial arts is Marc Lawrence, who has become a representative (staff) of the FMAdigest. He has written many
articles, major parts or entire Special Editions, and currently writes the column / editorial “Building Blocks of
FMA”
All are well deserving of their recognition and as you read this Special Issue you can well see their contribution to the Filipino martial arts.
Maraming Salamat Po
Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri
By Peachie Baron Saguin
Senator Miguel Zubiri is a gradu-
ate of Agri-Business Management
at the University of the Philippines
in Los Banos. He has recently
been conferred the Doctoral of
Laws degree (Honoris Causa) by
Southwestern University in Cebu.
A trained First Aider and a certified rescue diver, he is a Governor
of the Philippine National Red
Cross and an active member of the
Red Cross Youth Committee and
Concerned Divers of the Philippines. He chairs the Committee
on Urban Planning, Housing and
Resettlement and the Committee
on Cooperatives.
As a public servant, Sena-
tor Juan Miguel F. Zubiri, Migz to
close friends is already a veteran
legislator at the age of 39. He
served the 3rd District of Bukidnon for nine years since the 11th
Congress in 1998. He was consistently cited as one of the most
outstanding solons, in all three
terms in the House of Representative, and hopes to work just as
hard in the Senate to match if not
surpass his record in the House of
Representatives.
The author of major laws
such as the Armed Forces of the
Philippines Rate Pay Base Increase Act he is also considered
the father of the Biofules Act
2006, earning him the moniker Mr.
Biofuel. He was and still is fondly
known as one of the original Spice
boys in Congress and his track
record as a public servant is exceptional.
Not known to many, the
other side of Senator Miguel Zubiri is that of a fierce warrior. He
trained in an empty hand combat
at an early age and was trained by
Arnis Pushed as National Sport
May 5, 2009
Members of Filipino Martial Arts, led by Harbour Centre owner Mikee Romero, have thrown their full support behind
the bill filed by Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri to make Arnis the country’s national sport.
Romero and Zubiri, both avid Arnis practitioners, are rallying strong support for Arnis to be the country’s answer to
Thailand’s Muay Thai, Japan’s Karatedo and Korea’s Taekwondo.
Zubiri recently filed Senate Bill 1424 that hopes to make the bill move on to its third reading in the senate and get a
corresponding approval from the House of Representatives before hopefully the bill turns into law late this year.
Romero, meanwhile, is calling for a national Filipino Martial Arts congress this year to revive interest in local martial
arts, especially in Arnis. “This is one sport that we can proudly say a genuine Filipino sport and that’s the reason why
we are making efforts to revive its popularity,” said Romero. “We have to do something about it because Arnis is part
of the Philippine culture. We were the ones who introduced the sport to the world.” Arnis is a local form of martial
arts that uses sticks as weapons.
The sport suffered a big blow recently with the death of Grandmaster Roland Dantes, the former Mr. Philippines who
helped popularize Arnis.
“We have to restore and preserve our own national treasure. If nobody would help Arnis now, our 400-year-old martial
arts would just die a natural death,” added Romero, who likewise wants to incorporate a World body for Arnis like
that of FIBA for basketball.
Helping Zubiri and Romero revive the sport are media practitioner Bill Velasco, URCC Founder Alvin Aguilar and
members of the Philippine Council of Kali, Escrima and Arnis Masters. Romero said his passion for Arnis and the
Filipino Martial Arts is co-equal for his love of basketball.
2
Peachie with Senator Zubiri
revered Masters in the different fields of combat fighting. He was
a mean fighter and will put down an adversary easily in sparring.
His sparring partner is lucky if he breaks only his teeth. This writer
had the chance to witness first hand his ability as a fighter having
had the opportunity to train with him before. From empty hand
combat, Migz trained with swords and knife. He has a collection
of swords and knives varying in sizes and shapes. He competes in
various tournaments of Eskrima and won bringing home the highest award.
In August 19, 1989, he won 1st place in The Manila
Arnis Eskrima Kali World Invitational Tournament held in the
Ninoy Aquino Stadium. In the 1st WEKAF World Champion in
1989, and in the 2nd WEKAF World Champion in 1992, he was
declared as the World Champion. In all the Eskrima events he
participated such as; The Grandmaster Benjamin Luna Cup 1991-
1992, The Grandmaster Nonoy Mena Cup 1991, The Kalis Ilustrisimo Grandmasters Cup (Nayon Pilipino) Dec.
1, 1991 he was consistently proclaimed as the champion. In May 1 - 7 1998, he joined and became a delegate in
the Philippine Olympic Week. I would say; his track record as a fighter is as excellent as his political career.
Because of his love for the Filipino martial art, he filed Senate Bill No. 1424, declaring Arnis as the Philippine National Sport.
December 11, 2009
By Frank Aycocho
The Arnis Bill of Law, Republic Act No. 9850, an act declaring Arnis as the National martial
arts and sport of the Philippines,
the bill of law in honor of the Author, Senator Migz Zubiri who was
an Arnis practitioner of Filipino
heritage, champion in sports and in
politics in the senatorial candidate
raise, it was a great honor for us all
Filipinos Grandmasters of Arnis
Filipino martial arts of each own
expertise.
The long wait is over for
Arnis, the traditional Filipino martial arts, has become the national
sport. And it took a Senator and
Arnis experts as well, to give the
sport, around the world, the recognitions it deserves.
“We’ve done it. Now we
have the law” said Senate Majority
Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri who,
along with Representative Henry
Teves and George Arnais, authored
the law making Arnis the country’s
national martial arts and sport.
Republic Act 9850 was signed by
President Arroyo on December 11,
2009, a move that was welcomed
by Senator Zubiri and the countless Arnis practitioners throughout
the country.
It’s quite ironic that Arnis,
the traditional martial arts, is being
practiced more in other countries than inside Philippines. The
special-forces in the United States,
Russia, Israel and Germany used
them and recognize them as Filipino martial arts.
Senator Zubiri spoke in
front of the Arnis Grandmasters
from different styles, clubs, and
organizations from across the
country as they paid a courtesy
call on Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Harry Angpin.
It didn’t take long for the
PSC chief to throw his full support
into Arnis through a 5 million pesos pledge, and an office space for
Arnis training at the PSC Building.
“It’s about time for Arnis to get the
recognition it truly deserves, and
the PSC, being the lead government agency in sports, will always
be here to help,“ Said Angpin, who
presented Senator Zubiri with an
RP Team jacket.
In Thailand they have
Muay Thai Boxing, in Korea they
have Tae Kwon-Do and in Indonesia they have Pencak Silat, now
the Philippines; has Arnis as the
national sport and it is here to stay.
There has been a lot of
Arnis Grandmasters outside the
Philippines teaching overseas and
are noted to be some of the finest
Filipino martial arts instructors ,
in fact Westerns and Europeans
have become more skillful in the
art with the influence of different
style such as WEKAFP, IMAFP,
KKAASI, LESKAS, PCKEAM
DAV, DTS, etc… to name a few
Mabuhay ang Pinoy!
Mabuhay ang Arnis! Mabuhay ang
kagalang galang na mandirigma!
(Long live the Filipinos! Long live
Arnis! Long live the Honorable
Warrior! )
3
Present at the press conference, PSC, were Grandmasters:
Grandmaster Rene Tongson, Professor Armando Soteco, Grandmaster Gerry
Dela Cruz, Grandmaster Frank Aycocho, Grandmaster Vic Sanches, Grandmaster Bert Lamaniego, Grandmaster Jerson Tortal Jr. Grandmaster Pepito
Robas, Grandmaster Rodel Dagooc, Grandmaster Limuel Maning Bonsa,
Lady Grandmaster (daughter of the late Grandmaster Lema), Ms. Caballero,
Grandmaster Samuel Dulay. Masters of Arnis from different styles, Master
Vhir Tubera, Master Rey Dominguez, Master Jerry Evangelisan, Dayang Cecil Tubera, Professor Josie Bauzon, R. Delos Santos and many more.
4
5
Woman of the Year
Katulong Guro Hiu Lila
By Fred Evrard
Photos by Lester Ledesma
In year 2003, following a life-
time dedication to the martial arts,
Katulong Guro Hiu Lila and her
husband Guro Fred Evrard, left
their home in Tahiti for a “martial
arts and traditional medicines” trip
around the world. Four years without going home, sleeping in dojos,
temples, or directly at their instructors’ homes; training all over
the world with Masters of several
martial arts, monks and healers.
They have visited and
trained in the Philippines, China,
Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Tibet,
Lebanon, USA, Hawaii, Tahiti,
France, Germany, Canada, etc.,
searching for knowledge and sharing it, teaching seminars all over
the world.
Finally in 2006, the tour
was over, and life pointed to Singapore as their new home. This is
where the Evrard family; settled
down, and open their 3rd Filipino
martial arts school, Kali Majapahit
Singapore. Today, Kali Majapahit
is taught in Singapore, Philippines,
Tahiti, Moorea and Japan.
Katulong Guro Lila is the
Co-Founder of the Kali Majapahit School in Singapore. She is
a Senior Instructor, and the Kids
program manager, teaching there
professionally 5 days a week.
Even though she is Chinese
Hakka, born and raised in Tahiti,
she fell in love with the Filipino martial arts in 1999. Tough
boxer and kickboxer, comfortable
with any kind of weapons (both
hands), this ex-lawyer, gentle and
feminine lady is listened too and
respected by all her students (kids
and adults). She is fear for her interminable series of crunches, and
her excellent physical condition,
positive attitude and energy make
her a great role model for lots of
students.
Katulong Guro Lila teaches
Kali not only in our in Singapore,
but also in Tahiti, France, Canada,
USA, etc.
Lila stick fighting Punong Guro Jeff Espinous for her 3rd Dan test
Barong performance for 3rd Dan Katulong Guro test
10
FMA for Kids:
My goal was to offer a structured Filipino martial arts
program, especially designed for children from 6 to 14, boys and
girls. Using Filipino Kali as a tool for education and brain gym,
I was sure I could bring the best out of a child, having a decisive impact on his/her behavior, discipline, focus, wellness and
health.
Modern neurology science has proven that some Filipino
martial arts exercises, like the double sticks, have a tremendous
impact on the balance of our two cerebral hemispheres. The child
trained in Filipino martial arts will improve results at school,
focus capacities, memory, and will sooner or later develop ambidexterity. The Sinawali principles are just a magic tool for body
Basic Panantukan
and mind connection.
A safe, non-competitive, and kids-adapted Kickboxing (Panantukan / Sikaran) system will be used to
teach children to better control their strength while working with a partner. Some Panlohob na Lakas (Internal Energy) exercises will complete this system for posture correction and health purpose. The child will then
learn to breath and stand correctly, to focus and centre his body and mind, and to quiet the mental through
basic meditation.
Our kids and teens program should be seen as an educational tool that will increase children’s chances for the future, their self-confidence, their positivism and joy for life. The learning of martial arts is a way
of life, a philosophy, and a great tool for personal development and health.
The way I see it, competition is everywhere in our modern world, and martial art training can be a
chance to step out of the mold and experience something different. Teaching people (especially children) that
they can be great without stepping on anyone is one message I try to teach through Filipino martial arts.
The sub-systems we use in our schools for the Kids program are:
- Sinawali (double stick, using foam sticks)
- Solo baston (single stick, using foam sticks)
- Kadena de Mano (closed range empty hand)
- Panantukan (Filipino boxing)
- Sikaran (Filipino kickboxing)
- Dumog (Filipino wrestling)
- Panlohob na Lakas (internal Energy work)
Teenagers will jump to the adults class at 15 years old and to the above list, they will additionally
learn:
- Daga (knife)
- Largo Mano (long range or long sword)
- Espada y Daga (sword and knife)
- Sibat / Bangkow (spear or long staff)
- Trangkada (joint locks and pressure points)
- Silat Kuntao an Silat Sarong
- Hilot
11
Women and Kali Majapahit as viewed by Morgane Foucaud
In my Filipino martial
arts school in Singapore, about
40% of the students (and instructors) are women. Why are
women so attracted by Kali Majapahit? What is the difference
with other martial arts?
Kali Majapahit is a
system that combines different
tools / weapons to enable everyone to fulfill its requirements
in the progression of the martial art. Whether we’re looking
for Martial Arts skills, Health,
fitness, self-confidence, we’ll
find it there. The never-boringcurriculum is so rich, that even
though the concepts stay the
same, it seems that we never do
twice the same class. Between
Doble or Solo Baston, knife, Espada y Daga, Kadena de Mano,
Panantukan, Dumog, etc., there’s
a whole world for us to learn
from. At first, I’m guessing that
the Doble Baston for brain gym
and the Panantukan for the fitness/
stamina are the 2 sub-systems that
attract women most. But soon, we
just love everything about it!
One of the answers could
be that practicing martial arts
means staying away from the sport
atmosphere: competition, championship, medals, simply away from
ego (I make a clear difference
between martial arts and martial sports). YES, this “feminine
attraction” to Kali Majapahit is
the system itself and the way it is
taught. Guro Fred and Guro Lila
are both two amazing people that
spread their positivism, their joy
and their passion into their teaching. As a student you can really
feel their satisfaction while you
evolve and as a woman this feeling
really re-enforce your self-confidence. Fred and Lila constantly remind us that the only competition
is with ourselves. Never compare
one practitioner to another. There
is no aggressively, no fear, no ego
in the students’ practice. It is very
hard to neutralize those feeling but
Kali Majapahit teaches us to do
it.
Finally, I would add that
Kali Majapahit is not only about
the martial arts but has also
health and personal development
aspect to it. It teaches that being
a good martial artist is also being
a good and healthy Human Being, a good mother/father, a good
husband/wife, a good friend…
Knowing yourself and developing your inner being will enable
you “to grow” as a person, and
not only as a fighter. As a woman, that very idea is definitely
what made start the journey
in the first place. Understanding how we can re-enforce our
body, developing our strengths,
enhancing our Energy level,
being in better shape, correcting
our breathing, our posture; all
those are feelings that women
are usually sensible to. Don’t we
say that new family habits, new
lifestyles are usually introduced
by women?
In a nutshell, I would say
that Kali Majapahi really hits the
spot for women!
Some of our “lady fighters” with Katulong Guro Lila
12
Katulong Lila Filipino martial arts training includes: Kali Majapahit (under Guro Fred Evrard), Kali
Sikaran (under Punong Guro Jeff Espinous and Punong Guro Johan Skalberg), Inayan Eskrima (under Guro
Jon Ward), Panuntukan (under Punong Guro Jeff Espinous and Guro Julia Pattis), Dumog (under Guro Adrien
Rodriguez), Modern Arnis (under Grandmaster “Bambit” Dulay), Silat (Guru Md. Khamin) etc.
Diplomas and Certifications:
- 2009: Katulong Guro (3rd degree Instructor) in Kali Majapahit
- 2008: Instructor in Pencak Silat Titipinang
- 2006: Katulong Guro (2nd degree Instructor) in Kali Majapahit
- 2005: Kadua Guro (1st Degree Instructor) in Kali Majapahit
- 2005: IKAEF Kadua Guro (International Kali Arnis Eskrima Federation)
- 2005: Kadua Guro (1st degree Instructor) in Kali Sikaran
- 2004: Certified disciple by Sekiguchi Komei, Soke of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu (Japan)
Training:
- 2007: Starts training in Seni Silat Titipinang under Guru Utama M. Khamin
- 2007: Training in Pencak Silat Concept under Pendekar Jeff Espinous (Singapore)
- 2005: Seminar in Chen Style of Taiji Quan with M° Wang Fengming
- 2004: Training in Iaijutsu under Sekiguchi Komei, 21st Soke of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu
- 2003: Starts training in Feng Quan Kung Fu under Sifu Amon (Hawaii)
- 2003 - 2006: 4 years of intensive martial arts training in Asia (China, Thailand, Japan, Indonesia…)
- 2003: Training at “Lanna Muay Thai camp” in Chiang Mai (Thailand)
- 2003: Starts training in Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaijutsu under Montgomery Sensei
- 2002: Starts training in Filipino Martial Arts under Guro Fred Evrard, Punong Guro Jeff Espinous and Punong Guro
Johan Scalberg
- 1994: Starts training in Hapkido
- 1992: Starts training in Jujitsu
- 1989: Starts training in Kung Fu
- 1980: Starts training in Karate
Other systems studied:
- Panuntukan (Filipino Boxing)
- Inayan Eskrima
- Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)
- Jeet Kune Do
- Wing Chun
- Qi Gong (internal energy work)
- Yang style of Taiji Quan
College education:
- PhD in Law from the University of French Polynesia (France)
- Study Psychology at the University of French Polynesia (France)
Panuhud (knee strike)
Kali Majapahit Singapore
43 Carpenter street
Singapore, 088266.
(65) 9030-0844
Email - [email protected]
www.kali-majapahit.com
Kali Majapahit Philippines
Baguio City
(63) 919 590 1987
Learn More about Kali Majapahit… Click Here
13
School of the Year
Magdaraog Martial Arts
Legaspi ,Philippines
The Magdaraog Martial
Arts School is located in Legaspi,
Philippines and to say the least it
is a very unique school. Actually
Grandmaster Roy B. Magdaraog
refers to his school as an “All
weather training area”.
The art consists of Magdaraog Zen Aikido Jutsu Ryu and
Armas y Mano Magdaraog System. As stated by Grandmaster
Magdaraog, “The difference of
our Filipino martial arts is that
we in the Magdaraog Martial Arts
System have a unique system that
has been kept very secretly by my
father (Reynaldo Ayo Magdaraog)
the use of the Aikido/Aikijutsu
principles and incorporated the
Filipino arts of Arnis, Eskrima and
Kali; or the Stick and Knife weapons. And it has been used in Magdaraog Martial Arts System.The
Magdaraog Martial Arts System
is a principle of martial discipline
that only a few can survive the
brutal training and only some can
have the privileged to be trained
one-on-one in the Zeta theory and
principles that the late Reynaldo
A. Magdaraog had developed. And
me as the son “Grandmaster Roy B
Magdraog” has improved the zeta
that my father trained me in with
the true meaning and theory principles of it. The Alpha-Omega and
Alpha techniques have been added
and improved with more powerful
techniques.
The Magdaraog Martial
Arts System is a martial discipline that has been here for many
14
years; a martial art that has survived many trials, and this is not
only concerned with the physical,
mental and spiritual unity of each
practitioners.
The training is different,
we train in a place that is available and the environmental matter
whether rain or shrine. Each of
our practitioners will be trained
for years; if they can survive the
training which it must be a training of dedication, determination,
and so on… the Armas Y Mano
Magdaraog System”.
The essence of the Magdaraog system training is from the
teachings, training and practice in
the art of Zenaikiojutsu, a student
must have the basic of that system. The Armas Y Mano is for the
Masters of the Magdaraog System.
Armas Y Mano is the training,
teaching and practice of the more
detailed and more advance training. The training is to have the
knowledge of the human anatomy
and engineering, paranormal and
the level of understanding; this is
more of the detailed process of the
system, that’s why the only one
that can be a member and train in
this system must pass in the Zen
Aikido Jutsu training. This basic
requirement is different from the
other martial arts.
Armas Y Mano Magdaraog
Martial Arts System is an art that
Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog
developed before the passing of
his father, whom his father, had
told him how he could transform
2008
Due to the rain, the cement was slippery,
so instructors spread dirt on the cement to obtain traction in movement.
Master Ariel Dacillo and Master Charlie Austria demonstrated the free style of Armas y Mano movements which
feels like the actions on how to move in a complicated
movement and to feel what it can do in real situations.
This is a double Arnis free style movement which is
required for every member of the system.
Armas Y Mano Magdaraog Martial Arts System
the arts of the Aikido into the arts that is original and a
Filipino martial art. Then Armas Y Mano was born, all
the movements and basics are from what his father had
developed in the arts of the Zenaikidojutsu which his
father had founded and developed with the Zeta theory.
The art was designed to develop a single strike in just a
Arnis training against multiple attackers
click.
The Publisher of the FMAdigest was fortunate
to be able to witness the art of Magdaraog martial arts
at their training area. There were no tricks in the demonstration, no fancy movements to amuse or impress as
in a movie. Grandmaster Magdaraog always reminds
his students when they train or do a demonstration to
do it for real; it must be real.
Grandmaster Magdaraog and his instructors
and students demonstrated the true essence and nature
of the Magdaraog Martial Arts System.
The training is hard. Only the dedicated and
loyal will remain. That’s why there are only few
students who prevail. Students don’t use mats. There
is little difference in teaching the girls from the boys.
All are challenged especially those that have second
thoughts about their capabilities. Magdaraog martial
arts, is after quality not quantity. No black belts have
been promoted with less than 8 years of rigid train15
ing. And they have to pass tests to
prove their worth.
In talking to the senior students they have different perceptions. Though they are eligible for
promotion to brown or black belt,
they decline, saying that their skill
still needs refinement. Jokingly
Grandmaster Magdaraog says to
them, “It was I who recommended
you for promotion gauging upon
your performance and skills acquired”. Yet they decline.
Masters and Instructors are
all living in nearby locality. They
are all in the Bicol Region, Albay to be specific. At the moment
there are 5 Masters, but one was
expelled the other one is “Floating” pending final decision on his
status.
In the Magdaraog martial
arts system, to be authorized to
teach the arts you must pass the
required tests and then you will be
given a verbal and a certified certification with the Bible and Instructors Manual of the system that they
would be teaching.
Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2008
Grandmaster Magdaraog with Instructors and students - 2009
16
2009
Using natures resources Grandmaster Magdaraog demonstrates, ground giving techniques on how to move against single
and multiple opponents in the training of the Plum Flower technique.
L-R: Leonardo Patilleros Jr., Jason Gacosta, Ariel Dacillo,
Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog, Charlie Austria, Alfredo Gayanilo
17
Learn More About Magdaraog Zen Aikido Jutsu Ryu and Armas y Mano Magdaraog System: Click Here
Magdaraog Martial Arts System (Philippine
Magdaraog Zen Aikido Jutsu Ryu and Philippine
Armas Society Inc. (Armas Y Mano) offers seminars
and specialized training for groups and individuals
wanting to learn the arts of the Armas Y Mano.
For more information please contact the address below for details. The arts were never tough to
outsiders under the Magdaraog Martial Arts System,
and only a very few students can attain the more difficult and only a selected one’s can be one of us.
Central Training Center Address
Engr. Almonte’s Residence
Washington Dr., Cruzada
Legazpi City, Philippines
Office Address
Zenway Digital Concepts & Design Center
Door 203, 2nd Floor, Los Baños Bldg.
Aguinaldo cor Peñaranda & Mabini Sts., Brgy 31
Centro Legazpi City 4500, Philippines
63 (52) 481-5223
Voice and SMS 63 (919) 231-7865
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
18
zenaikidojutus.phpnet.us
Organization of the Year
Mission
The United States Filipino
Martial Arts Federation is a nonprofit Organization run by a group
of volunteers with no paid staff
employees.
Their mission is to create
an Organization that represents
“ALL” martial art forms that trace
their roots back to the Philippines.
To provide an environment that
allows safe honest competition for
all ages, officiating and rules that
is fair and impartial and promotes
the exciting world of Filipino martial arts.
The USFMAF is a growing
organization and as with all organizations that are growing rapidly
there have been and will be difficulties and hurdles to overcome.
They have learned from their successes and failures and continue to
strive to present the best Filipino
martial arts competition platform.
They invite all like-minded individuals to join them.
By joining the Federation
you are supporting an Organization that will provide excellent
seminars and specialized training
sessions throughout the United
States by Masters and Grand-
masters representing a variety of
Filipino styles. Those members in
good standing at the time of registration will be entitled to a majority of USFMAF sponsored events.
The USFMAF tournaments
could not be successful without
trained judges/referees and volunteers. They have an elite crew
who has volunteered their time in
all their past and future tournaments in support of USFMAF. The
USFMAF has instructors, Masters
and Grandmasters with many years
experience in Filipino martial arts
who contribute their knowledge.
Darren Tibon, President of USFMAF
Darren Tibon has supported Filipino martial arts tournaments for almost
two decades from Stockton, Sacramento, the Bay Area, Southern California to San
Diego and Hawaii. It has been his honor to coach his students in the tournament
circuit and see up close the different systems and styles of Filipino martial arts who
participate in athletic competition. One thing he has noted in all the traveling and
tournament circuits his students participated in, was that no matter what tournament
you compete in or what division is offered, continuous, point systems or live stick
divisions, generally the Filipino martial arts background or system which the judges
support in that area, will often dictate the points which are recognized. With that being said, Darren Tibon had to change the fight plan from tournament to tournament
according to the general style which would be judging or hosting the tournament.
Mr. Tibon found that he had to do this in order to get his teams techniques recognized.
As much as he was coaching his students on the various differences and
techniques to counter offensively and defensively, he was also analyzing the judging systems, what they reacted to and, what is just as important, what they did not react to. More focus was put
on just how important it is to have experienced judges, those who could recognize many facets of the systems
within Filipino martial arts. The only way this could be done was to come together with all the supportive
Filipino martial arts Grandmasters, Maestros, Masters and Guros who promote tournament competition or who
were interested in promoting tournament competition to their students and train judges to become “elite”. The
United States Filipino Martial Arts Federation foundation is based on honesty and integrity, and the right man
will win, and was started in June 2006.
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The Board of Directors where named and the ground work began. Conference meetings were started and
one of the first items on the agenda was the creation of the rules and regulations and divisions which would be
offered. Referee Clinics were held in Stockton, CA., Pleasanton, CA ., and Los Angeles CA, and Oregon, guests
from Oklahoma attended. The word spread and Regional Sports Organizers jumped on board from Oregon,
Oklahoma, Arkansas, Long Beach, CA., Los Angeles, CA., and San Diego, CA.
In 2006, the USFMAF went to Disney’s
Martial Arts Festival and did a demonstration
in the Saturday Showcase to introduce the Filipino martial arts to this circuit. This was broadcasted live via webcast. There were people
watching them live from California during
this demonstration in Florida which was very
exciting to say the least. The USFMAF wanted
to see what would be expected of them for the
year to come and, once again, more planning
and work needed to be done.
Darren Tibon felt the hard work had
paid off, many new RSO’s embraced the USFMAF idea and their students felt the divisions
USFMAF was first introduced in October 2006
they competed in were very well judged and
at the Disney Night Showcase.
refereed and they continue to support USFMAF. Mr. Tibon stated, “We of this federation are about doing everything for the right reason most of all competitors will feel they have a fair chance”. With that said, Mr. Tibon stands by his word and with the faith he has
in USFMAF certified judges and referees and a world class venue as the competition ground it sounds almost
too good to be true. Fellow Escrimadors it is true, and it is very real.
In 2009 a new division was introduced in the USFMAF “The Cultural Challenge”. Darren Tibon having had the honor of speaking with Sensei Dana Abbot,
Director of Chanbara a very respectful tournament circuit which is based nationally and
internationally utilizing five major weapons of the Japanese martial arts.
It would be a division for which Filipino martial arts would utilize all their respected simulated weapons of the Philippines against those of Japan. All weapon arts of
the world are welcome to join in on this very honorable and respected challenge which
took place in 2009 beginning at DISNEYLAND® Martial Arts Festival, March 27-28
in Anaheim, California.
The USFMAF is looking at this division as one of the greatest opportunities for
all the Philippine weapon arts to represent Filipino martial arts against the world.
The USFMAF is always looking for professionals with experience in the following areas: Medical Field,
Accounting Field, Legal Field, Judges, Referees, Time Keepers, Score Keepers.
As their membership grows their goal is to provide honest fair and fun events for their members in their
local areas. This being said, the USFMAF is always searching for Regional Sports Organizers throughout the
entire country.
If you or someone you know has a passion for Filipino martial arts and want to be on the forefront; please send
the USFMAF an email [email protected] and tell them a little about yourself and they will get back to you
soon.
Interested in becoming a Regional Sports Organizer or want more information on what it takes to become an
RSO, send email to [email protected] to get details.
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Learn More about the USFMAF...
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President: Darren Tibon - [email protected] / (209) 464-3701
Vice President: Alex France
Secretary: Darlene Tibon
Treasurer: Anthony Wade
Executive Marketing Director: Mark Larence
Executive Consultant: Eugene Tibon
Volunteer Coordinator: Jackie Wade
North West RSO Chairman: Mike Bowers
RSO Chairman: Master Mike Schwarz III
Membership Committee: Victor Chavez
www.usfmaf.org
USFMAF Elite Judges/Referees
Ascuncion, Gabriel
Bais, Jon
Brown, Gordon
Cabales, Gelmar
Finder, Jeff
Huang, Wenson
Massellones, Mateo
Preciado, Jerry
Preciado, Robert
Tibon, Chez
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Pantas ng Panulat
Masters of the Pen
Jeff “Stickman” Finder
His father and grandfather, who
learned boxing skills in Chicago,
first introduced Jeff “Stickman”
Finder into martial arts as a child
in the late 1950’s. In the early
‘60’s his older brother introduced
him to combative self-defense
skills that were taught at a military academy. In 1964, someone
anonymously left him a copy of
Jay Gluck’s now classic book “Zen
Combat”, which opened his interest to many forms of martial arts,
including Aikido and Ninjutsu. In
1966, at the age of 11, Jeff had the
opportunity to travel for several
months in the Far East. There he
was exposed to the culture and
martial arts of Japan, China, the
Philippines and Thailand. Though
he didn’t begin formal training
in the arts until graduating from
UC Berkeley (’77) with a BA in
History (Asian focus), through
his teen years he worked out with
friends who did Taekwondo, Judo,
and Chinese Kung-fu. In college
he took Aikido classes at Cal under
Shiohira-sensei (Ki Society) and
Kajukenbo with Don Roelle, who
was at that time a black belt candidate under Master Al Reyes Sr.
In 1977 Jeff began his formal martial arts career, enrolling in
Bok-Fu Kenpo in Berkeley, California. He did most of his training
under Sifu Al Thomas, earning a
black belt in this system through
the School of the White Tiger. This
was a good foundation in physical
training. Forms, sparring and bag
work were practiced daily. This
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was an “old style” school, with
bloodstained mats, holes in the
walls and duct tape on the heavy
bags. At one time there were 135
students; in one day, Sifu Thomas
cut 100 and put the rest on probation. A month later there were 6
left; two eventually received black
belts (Marc Sabin being the other
one). During the next 12 years this
would be his primary art, but he
would also cross train to varying
degrees in Aikido, Gracie Jujitsu
(with Cesar and Halph Gracie),
May Thai, Silat, Tai Chi Chuan,
and later on Wing Chun through
advanced instructors under Grandmaster Chris Chan.
In 1979 Jeff met Bob
Flores in Santa Cruz, a native
Filipino who had trained alongside
Leo Gaje in Pekiti Tirsia in their
youth. This was Jeff’s introduction to the Filipino martial arts
(FMA). For several years the little
bit he learned from Bob, plus Dan
Inosanto’s book “Filipino Martial
Arts” were all he had to go on.
Then, in 1985 while attending a
Max Pallens Karate Tournament
in San Leandro, Jeff watched a
demo of several different Filipino
martial arts systems, including
one by the Serrada Escrima Association of Stockton, under the
late Grandmaster Angel Cabales,
who was a living legend in the art.
Jeff attended a 2-day seminar the
following weekend and became a
student of the system. Grandmaster Cabales originally sent him to
train under Anthony Davis, who
lived 35 miles away. After a year
of study there, Jeff was finally
accepted as a private student with
Grandmaster Cabales. For the
next 1-1/2 years he commuted to
Stockton weekly, a 150 mile round
trip from Berkeley, to practice in
Angel’s living room, often with
other more advanced students
such as master Sultan Uddin and
soon-to-be Master Wade Williams.
Often after a day of training, Jeff
would accompany Grandmaster
Cabales to the Stockton academy
in the evening to work out with
the students there. Jeff received
his Advanced Certificate (#33) on
December 30, 1987, the same day
Wade received his Master’s Certificate. Although he was not previously certified, Jeff began teaching
Serrada Escrima at the White Tiger
in Oakland with permission of
Grandmaster Cabales. In February
of 1987, Grandmaster Cabales did
a seminar at White Tiger with several of his top students at that time,
including Sultan Uddin, Wade
Williams, Carlito Bonjoc, David
Mah, Anthony Davis and others, to
promote the school as the official
Bay Area Cabales Serrada academy under instructorship of Jeff
Finder.
Another facet of Jeff’s
training began in early 1987 when
he began studying Tai Chi Chuan under the late master John K.
Wong, Founder of the Wu Shing
Academy in Suisun, California.
Jeff was originally attracted by
John’s ability to translate the
relationship between hard and soft
styles of martial arts, but soon
discovered much more. “Uncle
John”, as he was known to his
students, started out under Kempo
grandmaster William “Thunderbolt” Chow in Hawaii. There he
befriended Adriano Emperado,
who would become a co-founder
and head of the Kajukenbo system. John Wong was the first
mainland administrator for Kajukenbo, overseeing at one time
3,000 schools! Eventually he left
the politics behind to teach his
grandfather’s system of Tai Chi.
Besides the martial arts, John came
from a Kahuna family and was into
healing and spirituality. Jeff had
long been a student of the writings
of Max Freedom Long about the
Hawaiian religion of Huna. John
became a mentor in this area, and
much of this phase of study was
devoted to Applied Kinesiology for
the body, and spiritual discussions
to develop appreciation for higher
levels of consciousness. A practicing meditator since the age of 18
(transcendental meditation, Aikido
meditations, guided visualization,
etc), these years with John not
only tied together different aspects
of martial arts but also tied together the link between the physical
and psychic arts. Jeff eventually
earned a black belt in Chuan-fa
through his studies here.
In 1988 Jeff participated
in the 1st U.S. National Escrima
Championships in San Jose, run
by Grandmaster Alfredo Bandolan. There he fought Arlan
Sanford, who would be one of
the original Dog Brothers. From
this experience he was invited in
1989 to become a member of the
1st U.S. National Escrima Team,
under coaches Fred Degerberg,
Grandmaster Alfredo Bandolan
and Grandmaster Richard Bustillo,
which went to Cebu in the Philippines in August of 1989 for the
Founding of WEKAF (World
Escrima/Kali/Arnis Federation)
and the 1st World Championships
for full-contact stick fighting. Jeff
went to the finals in light heavyweight, losing a split decision
(tournament officials gave him
a 1st place trophy anyway, after
reviewing a referee’s scoring error). The following week Jeff again
took second place in a tournament
in Manila, again involving controversy that included death threats
by RP military personnel against
the referee and members of foreign
teams. In spite of the controversy,
this was an exciting and memorable trip.
It was after his return from
the Philippines that Jeff decided
his future in the martial arts would
be in Escrima, and from that point
forward this became his primary
art. He began writing about his
experiences in the Philippines and
his training under Grandmaster
Cabales, first for the short-lived but
influential Escrima Review newsletter and then online for the Escrima Digest and later the Escrima
Arnis Digest. It was also after this
trip that he began experimenting
with different materials for sticks,
seeking a stronger, longer lasting
stick. He became the first to market
synthetic sticks to the public, and
in 1998 he was inducted by Grandmaster Gaudiosa Ruby into the
U.S. Kali Association Hall of Fame
for his contributions to the art.
A literary anthology of original writings published by North Atlantic Books on the
martial arts, featuring prominent authors such as George Plimpton, Bira Almeida,
Richard Heckler, John Gilbey, Ron Sieh, Carol Wiley et al - covering boxing with
Muhammed Ali, Capoeira, Aikido, Tai Chi Chuan and more. This includes the first
major publication by Jeff ‘Stickman’ Finder on the history and current direction of
the Filipino martial arts!
Get your autographed copy Click Here.
187 pages of good reading.
Get your autographed copy: Click Here
$15 Including Shipping
23
Jeff “Stickman” Finder has written numerous articles
for the FMAdigest and the FMAdigest was honored
to have Jeff Finder write an column / editorial for the
regular issues Vol5 No3 through Vol6 No4.
You can read is Columns in the Special Issue FMAdigest Columns
Jeff also has his own Blog which you should visit to find further writings of interest:
escrima.blogspot.com
Download
STICKMAN® products are designed by martial artists for martial artists and strive for the highest quality. Since
1990 their line of sticks, staffs and training knives have been made from the toughest, longest lasting materials
available without compromising the balance and feel for top performance. Their plastics are chosen for weight
and density similar to hardwoods that are used for martial arts, woods that are becoming increasingly rare and
which now are often cut too young, affecting the hardness and quality of the wood. In addition, they choose
materials that are attractive, so that the practitioner will appreciate and enjoy their STICKMAN® products.
www.stickman-escrima.com
24
Marc Lawrence
In his late twenties while working
at a refinery he met an older Filipino who taught the Filipino martial
arts. He had shown him some
basics moves and found that it
blended well with what he already
knew. When he was 29 he met his
wife, a Filipina, from Carson, CA.
After they were married his fatherin-law a WW-2 veteran was talking
and he told Marc about how he was
trained as a little on the Big Island
Hawaii, it was a version of Cinco
Terros. His father-in-law said it
was the man’s responsibility to
protect his family. Marc met other
family members that showed him
some more. Marc said it was his
mother in law’s relative (Manong
Espi) who was good. He was an
old school Arnisador. He showed
Marc and his older son some more
basics.
Marc and his son met a
fellow named Louis who practiced
Arnis in the park, he taught the
Cacoy Doce Pares Method. But
what he knew was limited. It was
just stick fighting only. Marc had
formed a small group at the factory where he worked, they would
met and practice out in the maintenance yard behind the SEA containers.
Marc said that it was his
mother-in-law who told him of
a teacher who was new to the
United States and needed students.
So Marc and his son went up to
Los Angeles and started training
with Master Erwin Mosqueda of
Doce Pares in his yard and then at
a local park. This was Marc Lawrence’s first formal training in the
Filipino martial arts.
As Marc trained in the
Filipino martial arts he would sit
and listened to the stories of his
wife’s family; he realized that
there were many great stories and
much knowledge that had not
been shared. Marc felt that it was
important for his sons to have pride
in their Filipino Heritage. Marc
started collecting the family stories
and knowledge, to share the Filipino pride with his children, family
and friends. Marc started writing
stories and history he had collected.
Marc as part of his work in
Fire prevention he wrote monthly
columns about work place fire
safety; this gave him the skills to
write articles. Marc started writing stories for FMAdigest and the
Filipino Martial Arts Museum Web
Page.
Marc Lawrence has become a constant contributor to the FMAdigest always looking for a story, interview etc. The following are some of the articles that he has written for the FMAdigest:
Regular Issues
- JEDOKAN - Vol6 No2
- Filipino Martial Arts in the United States - Vol6 No3
- Carin’s Doce Pares - Vol7 No2
- LAHUKA Eskrima - Guro Jovelyn Minoza - Vol7 No3
Special Issues
- Young Practitioners III - Keeping Tradition Alive in Torrance
- Disneyland Martial Arts Festival Anaheim, CA. 2009
Special Editions
- Pakamut - The Beginnings of PAKAMUT, The Early Training Years of Master Felix Roiles, Best of the Best
2006, and 2007 Stick Fighting Tournament,
- FMA Law Enforcement and Military Training II - FMA training for Law Enforcement Officers
- Homemade Training Equipment Building Your Own FMA Back Yard/Garage Studio and Homemade Weaponry
- FMA Daga II - Basic Knife Fighting
25
- Philippine Weaponry - Entire Issue
Mini Issues
- FMA Long Beach Internationals - USFMAF & South Bay FMA Club Judging & Referee Workshop and South
Bay Filipino Martial Arts Club Adventures at Long Beach International
- Stick Grappling Workshop - Main Article
- SBFMA Workshop - Main Article
Commencing with Volume 7 No1 Marc
Lawrence commenced the column / editorial Building Blocks of FMA.
Master Marc Lawrence in
2009 received the FMAdigest recognition for his continued efforts
and demonstrated abilities as a
competitor in Filipino martial arts
competition.
Download
Learn More About Master Marc Lawrence
www.southbayfmaclub.com
26
FMAdigest published in booklet form.
These special printings are approximately 5” X 7” in size - in Booklet
form.
FMAdigest Set: Volume 1 - 5 (1st Five Years Regular Issues)
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27
The FMAdigest has been designed to provide access to articles, information, events,
news, seminars, techniques, etc… pertinent to the Filipino Martial Arts and the Philippines.
The Filipino Martial Arts Digest besides providing information on Filipino martial
arts has an online digest which you can subscribe too for Free and comes out quarterly,
also with Special Editions that are on particular systems or styles, and Special Issues on
events of the Filipino martial arts.
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