Sikaran Taliba Vol5 No1

Volume 5
January - February 2016
BIYAKID
SIKARAN'S SIGNATURE KICK
Number 1
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Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo
Honorary Editor Emeritus
Mantas-Marangal Emmanuel es Querubin
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Managing Editor
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On November 6, 1966, Meliton C. Geronimo was promoted
Grandmaster of Sikaran
with the rank 0f 10th Degree Red Belt
MELITON GERONIMO
GRANDMASTER OF SIKARAN
10TH DEGREE RED BELT
On 06 November 1966, the Asian Karate Association headed by its President Grandmaster Kwai
Byeung Yun of the Korean Soo Bak Doo, with the concurrence of
All Japan Karate Federation Grandmaster Koichi Kondo and Korean Tang Soo Doo Grandmaster
Hwang Kee, officially recognized SIKARAN as a distinct Filipino Fighting Art. Meliton Geronimo
was acknowledged as the Grandmaster of SIKARAN and was awarded the 10th Degree Red Belt.
KOICHI KONDO
GRANDMASTER
All Japan Karate Federation
KWAI BYEUNG YUN
GRANDMASTER
Korean Soo Bak Doo
HWANG KEE
GRANDMASTER
Korean Tang Soo Doo
On November 6, 2016, The World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines will celebrate
its golden 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.
It is no coincidence that November 6, 1966 has a close harmonic connection to the
element of fire. November 6, 1966 is a Sunday, a holyday. In the Gregorian calendar, it is the
310th day of the year. There are 55 days remaining until the end of this year.
November 6, 1966 falls under the zodiac sign of Scorpio. The modern birthstone for this
month is Topaz.
The mythical animal representative of this date is the Horse. Interestingly, the first two
kicks of Sikaran were influenced by the horse. The front leg kick is called padamba in Sikaran
and the rear leg kick is called sipang kabayo.
In the very old art of astrology, fire is the element on this date. It is no surprise that when
Meliton C. Geronimo was born on March 10, 1927, the sphere of influence of his birth is the
element of fire.
Sikaran is like the element of fire. It is associated with energy, assertiveness, and passion.
Sikaran, like fire does not know fear or doubt. There are no mean tricks in Sikaran, and like fire
it consumes everything on its path. Sikaran is an important part of Filipino culture and vital to
the development of Philippine civilization
Spiritual Fire. Fire stands for emotions free from restraint, such as love and happiness, but also
hatred and anger. Fire stands for fair fight. Fire does not need mean tricks or dirty techniques.
Fire is the element burning in your consciousness, moving you to fight for the things you believe
in, in a manner that is fair and square. Fire represents a vision, a quality, a conviction, not only as
a commitment but also a realization. If the Fire has caught something, it fights for it until it has
consumed it or has burned it down, destroyed it. It can be extinguished or it can extinguish by
itself. Fire doesn’t know fear or doubt. It doesn’t know mercy or shame either. If it wants
something, it will get over everything on its path to get it. Fire also stands for inspiration,
compassion, love, longing and lust.
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 too passed away.
Only Grandmaster Meliton Geronimo is still alive, albeit at 89 years old, he is suffering
from the ill effects of several bouts with stroke.
The only other master who is still alive and was part of the early age of Sikaran is Kim
Soo Jin, now 10th Degree Red Belt of Ji Do Kwan (now a part of Korean Tae Kwon Do).
From the early beginnings of Sikaran in the Philippines, it has now spread its wings in the
four corners of the world.
Important events took place on November 6, 1966. Of course everybody in the Sikaran
world are aware that it was on this date that the Asian Karate Association recognized Sikaran as
a distinct Filipino art of fighting and declared Meliton C. Geronimo, Grandmaster of Sikaran
with the rank of 10th Degree Red Belt.
However, the recognition of Sikaran is not the only noteworthy occurrence of that day.
Several events took place in November 1966. Some were good some were not so good. Some
changed the course of history, some changed people's life.
In China Chairman Mao Tse Tung launched China's Cultural Revolution and begun the
purging of the intellectuals who were against Mao's administration.
An earthquake in Turkey left 2,394 dead and thousands injured.
In India, Indira Gandhi was elected Prime Minister.
In the field of science, Soviet Union lands Luna 9 on the moon early in the year. A few
months later the United States followed with a soft moon landing of Surveyor I.
In the field of fashion, Miniskirts are in.
In the field of health, cigarette packets in the United States must carry the health
warning "Caution! Cigarette smoking may be hazardous to your health."
In the early part of 1966, Ronald Reagan enters politics becoming governor of
California.
Bill Russell, became the first black coach in NBA history (Boston Celtics).
Among the Sikaran members who were there on that memorable day, one who is still
very active to this date is Emmanuel es Querubin. Emmanuel Querubin is now 9th Degree Red
and White Belt and holds the appointive position of Executive and Technical Assistant to Pantas
Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. President of the World Sikaran Brotherhood.
In 2012, Emmanuel Querubin, with Elpidio Seletaria, Jr., and Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr.,
published the Sikaran Taliba, an internet magazine of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the
Philippines.
On March 7, 2015, Grandmaster Meliton C. Geronimo promoted Meliton S,
Geronimo, Jr. to Sikaran Master with the rank of 9th Degree Red and White Belt and
appointed him President of the World Sikaran Brotherhood of the Philippines.
SIKARAN ANNUAL GATHERING AND WORKSHOP NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
Villa Ruth, Mambog, Barangay San Jose, Baras, Rizal
PANTAS MELITON S. GERONIMO, JR.,
9 na Antas, Sagisag na Pula at Puti
PRESIDENT
Mantas-Marangal Emmanuel Querubin,
9 na Antas, Sagisag na Pula at Puti
Executive and Technical Assistant to the President
Mantas-Marangal Andy Sanano, Jr.,
9 na antas, Sagisag na Pula at Puti
Administrative and Technical Assistant to the President
United States Country Regional Director
Florida State Director
Mantas-Marangal Louelle Lledo, Jr.,
9 na Antas Sagisag na Pula at Puti
Administrative and Technical Assistant to the President
New Jersey State Director
Mantas-Dlubhasa Elpidio Seletaria, Jr.
8 na Antas, Sagisag na Itim
International and Legal Assistant to the President
Welcome to the Annual Gathering and Workshop of the WORLD SIKARAN
BROTHERHOOD OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL CHAPTERS.
The topic of this workshop is to inform the uninitiated to Sikaran what makes
Sikaran different from other empty-hand arts like Karate and Tae Kwon Do. It is not necessary
to narrate the history of the martial arts, since there are as many versions as there are arts or
styles of each art. However, we can cite the differences as they are written in many reference
books. The Indian Martial Art of Kalarippayatu is said to be the precursor of the Chinese fighting
arts, (collectively known as Wushu or Kung Fu), which evolved to the Okinawan martial arts and
eventually evolved to Karate. Korean Tae Kwon Do is said to have its roots in the ancient art of
Tae Kyon but was influenced by the Bubishi of China.
Sikaran on the other hand is Filipino homegrown. There is no Buddhism influence in
the Philippines, which is the common denominator in the martial arts of India, China, Ikinawa,
Japan, and Korea, and even Thailand, and other Asian countries. As far as it can be determined,
Sikaran's first contact with foreign arts was with Chinese Koon-tao and Malay's Bersilat in the
14th century through traders. Sikaran, however, was already being practiced regularly by farmers
in the Province of Rizal. The use of the bladed weapon was also widely practiced.
A GLIMPSE OF THE EARLY DAYS OF SIKARAN
The confiscation and outlawing of weapons during the Spanish colonization of the
Philippines created a fertile environment for the development and propagation of an ancient
system of physical activity using the empty hands and the bare feet in offensive and defensive
maneuvers. This physical activity was eventually called SIKARAN. The Spanish authorities
viewed the system as a pastime and recreational activity, rather than an unarmed system of
fighting that could very well be lethal. The Spaniards, being armed with muskets and swords, did
not consider it a threat.
There is no written history or record of SIKARAN. What is known about SIKARAN was
passed on by word of mouth from generation to generation. In fact, it is unequivocally believed
that this is the first authoritative and only complete written account about SIKARAN. This
written account is based, not on history books or official archives. It is the unimpeachable
recollection of the people who were part of SIKARAN from its inception.
The book SIKARAN, THE FIGHTING ART OF THE FILIPINO FARMER, is a
verbatim chronicle of an interview in 1960, with the last Hari (champion) of SIKARAN,
Cipriano Geronimo, (father of Meliton and Jaime Geronimo). Cipriano Geronimo’s, knowledge
of the history of SIKARAN was how he remembered it as told by his father Bonifacio
Geronimo, a Hari ng mga Hari (Champion of champions) and Bonifacio’s mentor, a man who
was simply remembered as Ka Rumagit (Ka is a Filipino term of respect for an elder).
Ka Rumagit and Bonifacio Geronimo’s SIKARAN bond lasted all through their lives. Ka
Rumagit was also Bonifacio Geronimo’s alalay (second) and tagasanay (coach), during the
latter’s competitive years, as a SIKARAN fighter.
Melencio Bigasin and Manuel Ocampo, two elder contemporaries of Cipriano Geronimo
who were Haris (champions) turned guros (teachers), helped in clarification and confirmation of
information and events that time had shrouded with confusion, even doubts.
Ka Rumagit was a kaingero (clearing the forest by fire) farmer in the mountains
bordering the towns of Baras and Tanay, in Rizal province. He was soft spoken, to the point of
being an introvert. He did not say where he was from or who his parents were. Nobody even
knew what his real name was. However, he volunteered the fact that he learned the fighting
systems out of sheer necessity. It was suspected that he is the son of an Ita (mountain people
called Negrito) due to his physiognomy.
Standing no more than five-feet tall, Ka Rumagit was built like a rock, massive and hard.
His size camouflaged his agility. He favored a maneuver called the daluhong ng unggoy
(monkey attack), where he jumps on his opponent’s hips preventing the opponent from drawing
his itak at the same time gouging off the eyes. He is also partial to Sibasib ng Tamaraw (headbutt to the nose). Ka Rumagit claims that he learned these tactics from his Ita (mountain tribe in
the Philippines, called Negrito) friends. Another technique he favors is attacking the knee to
break it in order to “bring the opponent down to his size.” He called the technique pangbali ng
tuhod (breaking the knee). If he does not want to seriously injure his opponent, he just grabs the
testicles and squeezes it hard. He said that the pain is intensified by the fact that most mountain
people have salt deficiency and develops what he calls bayag ng kabayo (horse testicles) where
the testicles are swollen and very sensitive to the touch.
Ka Rumagit said he spent a good deal of his young life in the mountainsides, where
Tulisan (bandits or outlaws), roam freely and prey on innocent farmers. The fighting system
popular at the time was Arnis de Mano. However, even as a child Ka Rumagit’s favorite physical
activity was the “kicking game.” The “kicking game” was a favorite pastime of farmers.
However, Ka Rumagit regarded this activity in a more serious manner. By combining kicking
with Arnis de Mano in combat situations, the opponent may be easily caught off guard. Ka
Rumagit was an expert on both systems. He used his fighting skill to successfully defend his life.
The “kicking game” originated from animal behavior. By imitating the horse, they
developed the damba (horse kick with the front legs) and the sipang kabayo (horse kick with the
rear legs). By emulating the carabao (water buffalo), the padyak ng kalabaw was developed. A
carabao, by nature is a very docile animal. However, it has the habit of stomping the rear foot
and swaying its tail when annoyed with the birds that feed on the insects on the carabao. It also
uses its horns when fighting with other carabaos. For other techniques, Sikaranistas also
mimicked the agila (eagle), the labuyo (wild fowl), and the bulik or panabong (fighting cock).
In order to gain speed and height, they jump up to kick from a running start, just as an
eagle swoops down on its prey and called the kick dagit ng agila or dinagit.
Imitating the pagaspas (flapping) of the wings of the labuyo (wild fowl) to repulse and
get away from threats, allowed them to refine the movement for open hand blocking and
slapping techniques. These hand techniques were incorporated with the kicking techniques,
making the system a more exciting game and a more effective fighting system.
The direct frontal attack of the panabong (fighting cock) inspired techniques they called
salpok ng bulik (frontal assault of a type of fighting cock).
SIKARAN (then referred to as kicking game) was widely practiced by the farmers and it
became a favorite past time. The term SIKARAN was derived from the challenge
“magpanikaran tayo” (let's play the “kicking game”) when they want to enjoy that physical
activity.
“Nagsikaran kami” (we played the “kicking game”) became a favorite verbalization of
the activity by people after they played the game. Parents scolded their sons for playing the
“kicking game” with the term “nagsikaran ka na naman maghapon” (you played the “kicking
game” again all day long).
With the constant repetition of the term, the activity or the game became known formally
as SIKARAN. For centuries, SIKARAN was an informal unorganized game.
In the 1800’s, rules governing “official” matches were established. Offensive techniques,
other than foot kicking maneuvers were drastically restricted. Use of hand techniques was
limited to blocking, pushing, and pulling. SIKARAN became a methodized foot-fighting system.
The term Hari (king) was adopted as the title for the champion. This resulted in a wider
acceptance and more accelerated propagation of SIKARAN. Every SIKARANista coveted the
title Hari and the glory associated with the title.
Unlike Arnis de Mano, SIKARAN was not used in an organized manner of fighting the
foreign aggressors. Arnis de Mano was developed by warriors, for warfare. On the other hand,
SIKARAN was developed by farmers more for amusement. It was used for personal defense
only in extreme circumstances. The first choice of defense of the farmer, then and now, is his
utilitarian tool used for farming and harvesting, the itak (straight-edged machete-like long knife),
the karit (sickle), the dulos (reaper), and the palakol (axe).
TECHNIQUES OF SIKARAN
SIKARAN is a term derived from sikad (kick). In the active form of the Tagalog
language, when the consonant is between two vowels the D is replaced with R, hence the term
SIKARAN (instead of Sikadan). The term was used because the system relied heavily on using
the feet for kicking. Farmers having well developed legs favored and emphasized the use of the
feet. By imitating animal behavior, they developed kicking techniques that were given colorful
and descriptive names.
However, maneuvers using the hands for striking, joint reversals, takedowns and throws
are much a part of SIKARAN as kicking.
There were originally three SIKARAN kicks. Each kick had a particular target and a
particular classification.
The first kick was the padyak ng kalabaw (carabao stomp to the knee to break it). The
kick was classified as pangbalda (disabling) also known as pangbali (breaking). The rationale to
this kick was if the opponent “cannot stand he is helpless and as good as dead.”
The second basic kick was sipang kabayo (horse kick with the hind legs). The kick was
classified as panglumpo (paralyzing) or panghilo (stunning). Any part of the body below the
head, but above the knee was the target. The terms panglumpo and panghilo were used
interchangeably when the sipang kabayo was used.
The third kick was called the pamatay (killing)) or kick to the head. The original head
kick was the biyakid (Spinning heel kick). SIKARAN fighters found out that by spinning the
body they can kick with the heel, targeting the side of the head and even the back of the head.
The spin creates more energy and with the element of linlang (deception) by turning the back to
the opponent, greater effectiveness of the kick was achieved. They called the spinning heel kick
Biyakid, the gerund (verbal noun) for Biyakin (to split).
Biyakid became the favorite kick of most SIKARAN fighters because it was a very
effective technique at any fighting range. The favorite target was the head (temple and back of
the head) comparing it to a coconut. The temple is a fused joint in the skull and theoretically,
applying sufficient force against it may cause it to crack (like a coconut). The back of the head
houses the cerebellum and the joint that connects the spine to the skull. Adequate force on these
targets, or any part of the head for that matter, may instantly knockout or “kill” the opponent. By
controlling the intensity and force of the kick, it was possible to produce any of the desired effect
of pangbalda / pangbali (disabling / breaking), panglumpo / panghilo (paralyzing / stunning), or
pamatay (killing).
SIKARAN fighters always maintain that: If a person is baldado (disabled), he cannot
fight and is therefore as good as “dead”; if a person is lumpo (paralyzed), he is as good as
“dead.” If a person is patay (dead), he remains dead.
BIYAKID, SIKARAN’S SIGNATURE KICK
Manuel Ocampo makes the
initial move.
Manuel Ocampo delivering a biyakid to the
spine of Melencio Bigasin.
Grandmaster Meliton
Geronimo delivering
a biyakid to the back
of the head of his
student Emmanuel
Querubin.
However, this
does not mean that a
particular kick was
limited to a specific
outcome or a blow to
an explicit target will
have a definite result.
Any of the kicks may disable, or may paralyze or may even kill the opponent. The intention in
the application and not the technique, determined the consequence.
From these kicks, other kicks evolved. Characteristics and mechanics of different kicks
were mixed and matched to develop other kicks.
With the increase of participation in SIKARAN contests, other parts of the foot, such as
the bilogan or ball of the foot; the balantok or instep; the limpyak or edge of the foot; and even
the talampakan or sole of the foot were used. Likewise different kicks which were less deceptive
but equally effective, were developed and became part of SIKARAN.
Supremo Meliton Geronimo, explained the proper delivery of biyakid based on the
principles of physics. This is the favorite kick of most SIKARAN hari’s of old because it is very
effective at any fighting range. This kick was developed by spinning the body with the temple,
the spine, and the back of the head, as the favorite targets.
There are 3 motions that determine the effectiveness of a biyakid. First is the spin of the
body that creates the centrifugal force. Second is the turn of the hips that creates the rotational
thrusting force and third is the snap back from the knee that propels the heel to the target and
creates the motion that offers a quick and vigorous recovery of the kicking leg. Any deviation
from this process will compromise the one-strike-one-kill property of the biyakid
BIYAKID - SPINNING
KICK
First Motion - Spin of the body that
creates the centrifugal force (red
arrow)
Second Motion - Turn of the hips
that create the rotational thrust of the
hips (blue arrow)
Third Motion - snap back from the
knee that propels the heel to the
target and creates the motion
that offers a quick and
vigorous recovery of the kicking leg
(blue-green arrow)
Impact point - Heel (maroon
circle)
All the techniques of Sikaran, were explained by Supremo Meliton Geronimo, based on the laws
of physics and motion. He did not change, add, or subtract from the original Sikaran that he
learned from his father, his other teachers, and Sikaran elders. What he did is explain the
principles that made every single technique easier to understand, hence making the maneuver
easier to execute and more effective. Likewise, by developing drills and forms, he elevated
Sikaran not only as a physical art, but also as a martial sport, through a process of natural
growth, differentiation, or evolution by successive improvements. Sikaran has evolved, from a
past time activity of farmers, to an international modern sport. As Grandmaster, this perhaps is
one of the great contributions of Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo, to Sikaran, propagating the art
from the 16th Century to the 21st Century.
A modification of the biyakid (spinning heel kick) is the sipawit, which uses the back of
the heel in a hooking motion without the 180 degrees spin.
From the sipang kabayo (back thrust heel kick), the sipawid (diagonal thrust heel kick),
and later on the sipalid (side kick) were developed
The pilatik (front snap kick) came about from the paltik (snap) of a whip. The jumping
kicks were a development from the damba (horse kick with the front legs).
The Sipa ng Lulod (shin kick), used to attack the knee is now called Sipakot (roundhouse
kick). From the Sipakot ng lulod (roundhouse shin kick), the roundhouse kick using the ball of
the foot and the roundhouse kick using the instep came about. From the Sipakot (roundhouse
kick) Sipakan (crescent kick) was added both as an offensive and defensive kick. From this kick,
the Sipang baliswa (reverse crescent kick or twisting kick) emerged.
Borrowing kinetics from sipang Baliswa (reverse crescent kick) and mixing it with
Padyak ng kalabaw (carabao stomp), the Sipang alanganin (oblique front thrust kick) was
developed. Some call this kick theAx (palakol) kick.
Of the original kicks of SIKARAN, biyakid, and sipang kabayo are the original terms still
being widely used to describe the kicks. The term “flying kick” is now the accepted term for
dagit ng agila. With the acceptance of Taglish (Tagalog-English), some of the kicks are called by
their English names.
First generation students of Supremo Meliton C. Geronimo (Grandmaster of SIKARAN),
however, still use dinagit (the act of swooping down) for “flying kick.”
To avoid confusing one kick with another, kicks used in present day SIKARAN have
now specific and definitive Filipino names.
In present day SIKARAN contests and competitions, as in the olden days, the use of hand
techniques is limited to blocks and parries. This led to the mistaken notion that SIKARAN only
uses the feet, which started the term “foot-fighting art of the Philippines.” This erroneous idea
was brought about by the emphasis on foot techniques by the Sikaranistas of old.
Hand techniques, however, are used extensively and are integral parts of SIKARAN in
self-defense applications, where there are no rules except to survive and win the fight. Aside
from the use of the hands for thrusting and striking, the hands are also used for takedowns and
throwing.
It is not very common to use the hands as an initial attack in SIKARAN. A SIKARAN
fighter normally attacks with the legs. Hand techniques are used mostly as a follow-up to leg
techniques or as a continuation technique of a block or as a counter-attack.
The main open-hand weapons are the Dalibat (spear-hand), Kamayga (knife-hand),
Kamaylid (ridge-hand), Palad (palm), Sakong-lad (palm heel), the Kamayri (fore-knuckles), also
sometimes called Kobra (cobra) and the Panipit (pincher formed by the thumb and fingers).
The main closed-fist weapons are the Kamao (fore-fist), the Kamaypok (bottom-fist), and
the Kamaykod (back-fist).
The preferred SIKARAN closed fist technique is the suntamay (vertical punch), where
the thumb side of the fist is facing up or turned just a few degrees inwards, at the completion of
the punch. Due to the position of the fist in relation to the wrist, the forearm and the elbow, it is
possible to deliver a powerful punch with less chance of injury to the hand or the wrist. Power is
generated by the snap of the elbow, the twist of the hips, the forward momentum of the body and
the follow through in one imperceptible motion.
Present day exponents of SIKARAN have adopted the suntribuson (“corkscrew punch”
where the fist is pulled to the side of the body and delivered turning the fist 180 degrees
inwards).
The Bisig (forearm) is also used, not just for blocking but also for striking and so is the
Siko (elbow).
Joint reversal techniques in SIKARAN are applied against the fingers, the wrists, the
elbows the knees and the ankles. They are applied to disarm, to control or to break the joints.
Joint reversal techniques, although a very important part of SIKARAN as an art of self-defense,
were allowed in competitions and contests of SIKARAN of old, only if they were a legitimate
part of leg techniques. In present day SIKARAN competition, joint reversal techniques are not
allowed.
Throws and takedowns are an important part of SIKARAN as an art of self-defense. They
were allowed in contests in SIKARAN of old, but only if they were a legitimate part of leg
techniques. In present day SIKARAN competition, throws and takedowns are not allowed.
There are three main throwing techniques in SIKARAN. They are the Hagis Pasang
Araro (over the shoulder throw), the Hampas sa Lupa (body slam) and the Hagis Pasang Bigas
(hip throw).
Likewise, there are several takedown techniques in SIKARAN. The most common are
the Pawalis (leg sweeping), the Pagapas (leg reaping), the Patid (leg tripping), the Sipa sa Alakalakan (kick against the back of the knee), the hilang pababa (pull down) and the tulak pababa
(push down).
There are several SIKARAN techniques no longer allowed in contests and competitions
and are therefore becoming obsolescent. The two most popular techniques of SIKARAN rarely
seen today and unknown to most new practitioners are the suwag ng tamaraw also known as
sibasib ng tamaraw (head butt) and the daluhong ng unggoy (monkey attack). Ka Rumagit
explained that these two techniques were actually “contributions” to SIKARAN by the
indigenous mountain people of Luzon who were shorter in physical stature than regular
Filipinos.
One variation of the sibasib ng tamaraw is by jumping forward and with the forehead
strike the opponent’s nose. This technique effectively disrupts the breathing. Another variation is
by hitting the underside of the chin with the top of the head. When grabbed from behind, the
back of the head is also utilized.
Tamaraw is a type of wild buffalo that can only be found in the Philippines. It is smaller
and leaner than the carabao (water buffalo), its domesticated relative. A Tamaraw is very
ferocious by nature. Unfortunately, it is also almost extinct and now can only be found in the
island of Mindoro in the Philippines.
The daluhong ng unggoy is delivered by jumping and kicking the opponent’s hips with
both legs at the same time poking the opponent’s eyes with the thumbs as you grab the sides of
the head with your fingers. Another variation of this maneuver is the dukit ng mata (gouging off
the eye). As the kick immobilizes the opponent, one arm securely holds the opponent in a
headlock while a forceful penetrating thrust of the forefinger of the other hand is applied in the
corner of the eye socket to gouge it out.
Unggoy is a small wild monkey that is known to attack people viciously without cause or
warning. It cannot be tamed like the tsonggo its domesticated cousin, which some people keep as
a pet.
The basis for the SIKARAN blocks is the pagaspas ng labuyo (flapping of the wings of a
wild fowl). All downward motion blocks were called salag buhat araw (blocks from the sun) and
all upward motion blocks were referred to as salag pamayong (umbrella blocks).
In preparation for the 2016 Sikaran Seminar and Gathering, the President of the World
Sikaran Brotherhood, Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr., accompanied by the Presidential
Assistant for Administration, planning and programs, Ms. Janeth Geronimo, took a short but
needed trip to the Philippines in November 2015, in time also for the Invitational Sikaran
Tournament in Gumaca, Quezon.
Right after the tournament, a meeting was held attended by officers who formed the
Interim Tournament Committee who will draft the agenda of the coming 2016 Sikaran Seminar
and Gathering.
WORLD SIKARAN BROTHERHOOD
In 1958, when the World Sikaran Brotherhood was formed, it was composed of three
divisions, based on the geographical categories of the country. Looking at the map of the
Philippines, the upper and biggest land mass is Luzon. Below Luzon are different island groups
of the Visayas region. At the bottom of the map is the Mindanao and the various islands which
were originally part of the Philippines, but which are now being claimed by the surrounding
countries such as China, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia.
In 1967, the Philippines in cooperation with the other Southeast Asian Nations formed an
economic and political group named ASEAN.
In line with this political grouping and to have a more decentralized form of government,
the Philippines was divided into 17 political regions, namely:
NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION (NCR)
Caloocan City
Pas Pinas City
Makati City
Malabon City
Mandaluyong City
Manila City
Marikina City
Muntinlupa City
Navotas City
Paranaque City
Pasay City
Pasig City
Pateros City
Quezon City
San Juan City
Taguig City
Valenzuela City
CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION (CAR)
Abra
Apayao
Benguet
Ifugao
Kalinga
Mt. Province
ILOCOS REGION (REGION 1)
Ilocos Norte
Ilocos Sur
La Union
Pangasinan
CAGAYAN VALLEY (REGION 2)
Batanes
Cagayan
Isabela
Nueva Vizcaya
Quirino
CENTRAL LUZON (REGION 3)
Aurora
Bataan
Bulacan
Nueva Ecija
Pampanga
Tarlac
Zambales
CALABARZON (REGION 4-A)
Batangas
Cavite
Laguna
Quezon
Rizal
MIMAROPA (REGION 4-B)
Marinduque
Occidental Mindoro
Oriental Mindoro
Palawan
Romblon
BICOL REGION (REGION 5)
Albay
Camarines Norte
Camarines Sur
Cantanduanes
Masbate
Sorsogon
WESTERN VISAYAS REGION (REGION 6)
Aklan
Antique
Capiz
Guimaras
Iloilo
Negros Occidental
Iloilo City
CENTRAL VISAYAS (REGION 7)
Bohol
Cebu
Negros Oriental
Siquijor
Cebu City
EASTERN VISAYAS REGION 8)
Biliran
Eastern Samar
Leyte
Northern Samar
Samar
Southern Leyte
Tacloban City
ZAMBOANGA PENINSULA (REGION 9)
City of Isabela
Zamboanga City
Pagadian City
Zamboanga del Norte
Zamboanga del Sur
Zamboanga Sibugay
NORTHERN MINDANAO (REGION 10)
Bukidnon
Camiguin
Lanao del Norte
Misamis Occidental
Misamis Oriental
Cagayan de Oro City
DAVAO REGION (REGION 11)
Compostela Valley
Davao
Davao del Sur
Davao Oriental
Davao City
SOCCKSARGEN (REGION 12)
Cotabato
Saranggani
South Cotabato
Sultan Kudarat
Koronadal City
CARAGA REGION (REGION 13
Agusan del Norte
Agusan del Sur
Dinagat
Surigao del Norte
Surigao del Sur
Butuan City
AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO (ARMM) (REGION 14)
Basilan
Lanao del Sur
Maguindanao
Sulu
Tawi-tawi
Cotabao City
With the change of the political leadership, also came a change in the leadership and
requirements in the administration of sports and sports associations. The Philippine Sports
Commission (PSC) required the World Sikaran Brotherhood to align itself in the approved
regional and political divisions. Regional Directors and officials were elected, and appointed.
These regional divisions resulted in more competitions and rivalry between the clubs and
regions. Where there was before limited activities, there are now energetic actions involving
mental function, and educational procedure designed to stimulate learning by firsthand
experience.
In 2015 alone, several contests and tournaments involving most of the regional chapters
were held keeping the officers and members of the World Sikaran Brotherhood busy all year
long.
Just before the end of 2015, an open tournament was held in Gumaca, Quezon, under the
auspices of the Gumaca Sikaran chapter.
Pantas Meliton S. Geronimo, Jr. President
of the World Sikaran Brotherhood attends
to some paperwork.
some of the participants
the action was fast and intense
some of the winners……….
BALANGKAS NG KAMPANA
PATTERN OF THE BELL OR 4-DIRECTIONS PATTERN
The Balangkas ng Kampana (Pattern of the Bell), derived its name for the 4-directions of attack,
which like the bell will ring no matter what part you hit. Another reason that is known only to
those who are close to Meliton Geronimo, Kampana (Bell) is the nickname given to him by his
SIKARAN masters to herald his birth. He also has the ability to hit multiple opponents when
surrounded.
When Balangkas ng Kampana were first adopted the only techniques were the five basic kicks,
the PILATIK (front kick), the SIPAKOT (roundhouse kick), the PADYAK PATAGILID (side
thrust kick), the PADYAK PATALIKOD or SIPANG KABAYO (back thrust kick) and the
BIYAKID (spinning heel kick). Incorporated in each balangkas are open hand blocks and other
hand techniques. A kicking block SIPAKAN (crescent kick), is also incorporated. There are 5
Balangkas ng Kampana , which are performed in both right-handed and left handed- fighter
orientation. For variation, some enterprising instructors incorporated various hand and leg
techniques in different sequences but still called it Balangkas ng Kampana
SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM
4-DIRECTION OR BELL PATTERN 1-5
BALANGKAS NG KAMPANA 1-5
B
A
D
C
LEFT ORIENTATION
A
D
RIGHT ORIENTATION
B
C
Ika - 4 KAMPANA
SIPAKAN - SIPANG KABAYO
(4th PATTERN OF THE BELL
CRESCENT - BACK KICK)
1
2
3
4
5
Starting Position
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
17
13
18
23
24
14
19
25
15
20
16
21
26
22
27
28
29
33
30
34
31
35
Ending Position
36
32
37
IKA-4 KAMPANA STEPPING / TURNING INSTRUCTIONS:
2nd SET
1st SET
Steps 11-2-13-14-15
going towards B then
turn going towards C
step 16
B
From starting position steps
6-7-8-9-10 going towards A
then turn going towards B
step 11
A
START
C
3rd SET
Steps 16-17-18-19-20
going towards C then
turn going towards D
step 21
D
4th SET
Steps 21-22-2324-45 going
towards D then
turn going
towards A to
ending position
steps 26-27
LEFT ORIENTATION
5th SET
From starting position steps 2829-30-31-32 going towards A
then turn towards B step 33
A
B
6th SET
Steps 33-34-35-3637 going towards B
then turn going
towards C step 38
END
7th SET
Steps 38-39-40-41-42
going towards C then
turn going towards D
step 43
8th SET
Steps 43-44-45-46-47
going towards D then
turn going towards A
to ending position step
48
D
C
RIGHT ORIENTATION
Ika-4 KAMPANA
1. Take your position in the middle of the arena and assume parallel toes stance bringing
open hands to the sides.
2. Slide left foot towards the right foot and assume open toes stance bringing right fist on
left palm.
3. Tip head about 10 degrees forward.
4. Bring head up keeping right fist on left palm.
5. Slide left foot to the left and assume parallel toes stance bringing open hands to the
sides.
6. Move left foot forward to assume a left fighting stance facing A at the same time
executing a left open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
7. Execute a left crescent kick block.
8. Bring left foot down next to the right foot with toes pointing backward and looking to
the right over the right shoulder.
9. Execute a right Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
10. Pivoting on left foot turn 90 degrees to the right to face B assuming a left fighting
stance and executing a left open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
11. Execute a left crescent kick block.
12. Bring left foot down next to the right foot with toes pointing backward and looking to
the right over the right shoulder.
13. Execute a right Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
14. Pivoting on left foot turn 90 degrees to the right to face C assuming a left fighting stance
and executing a left open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
15. Execute a left crescent kick block.
16. Bring left foot down next to the right foot with toes pointing backward and looking to
the right over the right shoulder.
17. Execute a right Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
18. Pivoting on left foot turn 90 degrees to the right to face D assuming a left fighting stance
and executing a left open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
19. Execute a left crescent kick block.
20. Bring left foot down next to the right foot with toes pointing backward and looking to
the right over the right shoulder.
21. Execute a right Sipang Kabayo (back kick) exhaling sharply and loudly (BUNYAW)
22. Pivoting on left foot turn 90 degrees to the right to face A assuming a left fighting
stance and executing a left open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
23. Pull left foot back to assume a parallel toe stance bringing both hands to the side.
24. Step right foot forward to assume a right fighting stance and execute a right open hand
upper outward block.
25. Execute a right crescent kick block.
26. Bring right foot down next to the left foot with toes pointing backward and look to the
left over the left shoulder.
27. Execute a left Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
28. Pivoting on right foot turn 90 degrees to the left to face B assuming a right fighting
stance and executing a right open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
29. Execute a right crescent kick block.
30. Bring right foot down next to the left foot with toes pointing backward and look to the
left over the left shoulder.
31. Execute a left Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
32. Pivoting on right foot turn 90 degrees to the left to face C assuming a right fighting
stance and executing a right open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
33. Execute a right crescent kick block.
34. Bring right foot down next to the left foot with toes pointing backward and look to the
left over the left shoulder.
35. Execute a left Sipang Kabayo (back kick).
36. Pivoting on right foot turn 90 degrees to the left to face D assuming a right fighting
stance and executing a right open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
37. Execute a right crescent kick block.
38. Bring right foot down next to the left foot with toes pointing backward and look to the
left over the left shoulder.
39. Execute a left Sipang Kabayo (back kick) exhaling sharply and loudly (BUNYAW)
40. Pivoting on right foot turn 90 degrees to the left to face A assuming a right fighting
stance and executing a right open hand upper outward block exhaling thru the mouth.
41. Slide right foot backwards to assume parallel toes stance bringing open hands to the
sides.
42. Slide left foot towards the right foot to assume open toes stance bringing right fist on
left palm.
43. Tip head about 10 degrees forward.
44. Bring head up keeping right fist on left palm.
45. Slide left foot to the left to assume parallel toes stance bringing open hands to the sides.
BUNYAW
ERRATA
THIS PICTURE OF ENSIGN ELPIDIO SELETARIA, JR. HAS THE WRONG BACKGROUND
CORRECT BACKGROUND
BOOK TWO
COMING SOON
RELEASED IN 2011….
SIKARAN INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO VOLUME 1
WRITTEN, PRODUCED, AND DIRECTED BY:
ELPIDIO SELETARIA JR.
8th 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 - [email protected]
ARNIS BOOKS BY LOUELLE LLEDO, JR., 9th Degree Red and White Belt #326
To Order Contact: [email protected]
ARNIS DE MANO FILIPINO MARTIAL ARTS EDUCATION
TEACHER'S TRAINING HANDBOOK
By: TWO SIKARAN MANTAS
LOUELLE LLEDO, Jr. (# 326) and ANDY SANANO, Jr. (# 844)
TO ORDER CONTACT:
Louelle Lledo, Jr. - [email protected]
Andy Sanano, Jr. - [email protected]
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SIKARAN builds 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 more peaceful world
SIKARAN WORDS OF WISDOM
"skill in the martial arts does not make one invincible"