Publisher Steven K. Dowd

Contributing Writers Meneleo Estepa, MD Capt. Rick Sarte Romeo C. Mascardo Junch Martinada Liping Maharlika PHILMAT NARAPHIL Archives

Contents From the Publishers Desk Message From: Meneleo E. Estepa, MD - President Presidents: Past to Present Officers and Staff and Board Members About NARAPHIL Chronicle of Arnis Events: 1975 - 2005 Tribute to the NARAPHIL Grandmasters Training with the Grandmasters Training “The Grassroots” NARAPHIL Inter-Club Women's Week Celebration Oldest Published Arnis Book

Filipino Martial Arts Digest is published and distributed by:

FMAdigest 1297 Eider Circle

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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. The ideas and opinions expressed in this digest are those of the authors or instructors being interviewed and are not necessarily the views of the publisher or editor. We solicit comments and/or suggestions. Articles are also welcome. The authors and publisher of this digest are not responsible for any injury, which may result from following the instructions contained in the digest. Before embarking on any of the physical activates described in the digest, the reader should consult his or her physician for advice regarding their individual suitability for performing such activity.

From the Publishers Desk Kumusta

NARAPHIL established in 1975, has a history in supporting the Filipino martial arts which is historical to say the least. A non-profit organization that fully promotes all aspects of the Filipino martial arts and has had affiliations with of some of the legendary Grandmasters such as Florentino Pecate, Benjamin Lema, Remy Amador Presas, Jose Mena, Vicente Carin, Antonio Ilustrisimo and Momoy Cañete.

While in the Philippines this year I had the privilege to meet Capt. Ricardo F. Sarte, Executive Vice President, Sr/Supt. Adriatico del Camat, Jr., Vice Chairman of the Board, and other Officers, Staff and Board Memebers of NARAPHIL. With this I was put into contact with Meneleo E. Estepa, MD, President of NARAPHIL who resides at this time in the United States.

With their permission and valuable help this Special Edition was able to be put together. So you the reader will read the historical events that NARAPHIL has instituted, been a part of or supported through the years.

Well, instead of rambling on let me just say read, enjoy and learn some history of the NARAPHIL.

Maraming Salamat Po

NARAPHIL Central Office (Current Office and Gymnasium)

28 Narra Street, Aniban I Subdivision Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines 4102

Tel. #: (63046) 417-5078 www.naraphil.blogspot.com

NARAPHIL

Greetings

Mabuhay!

On behalf of the officers and staff of NARAPHIL we would like to take this wonderful opportunity to share you the “Inside of NARAPHIL”. I hope this would give our readers the in-depth view of the projects and programs it undertook from its conception to the present.

The success of NARAPHIL would not be possible without the concerted efforts of the different clubs, institutions and personalities who supported her from the beginning to date and other parallel institution who gave criticism of our projects and status that paved the way for a better arnis promotion world-wide like the establishment of the real first world arnis body – WEKAF. To them we owe our thanks and hope they will remain the same for the sake of arnis promotion.

It is the policy of this institution, since time immemorial that we help other groups/clubs/individual or other institutions for purpose of one goal that is – arnis promotion. No matter how trivial or controversial it maybe, we believe that their programs are geared towards arnis promotion and not self-personification.

So therefore, one may find seem unusual that one or few NARAPHIL instructor/s participating on a different arnis activity not on the pretext of sowing controversy but supporting for its promotion. We believe that arnis practices will later in the future be more professional rather than personalized.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank my peers who supported my vision and belief for a better arnis activity in the future and NARAPHIL.

And lastly, on behalf of my colleagues and brothers of NARAPHIL to thank FMA Digest especially – Steven Dowd (Publisher), for giving us the opportunity to open the books of NARAPHIL to the world. MENELEO E. ESTEPA, MD President

Presidents of

NARAPHIL Past to Present

Gen. Fabian C. Ver, AFP

(1975-1986)

Atty. Dionisio A. Cañete

(1986-1990)

Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo

(1990-2004)

Meneleo E. Estepa, MD

(2004-2008)

Officers and Staff

Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo (Chairman of the Board)

- President of SDI Consultancy Group - Director for Strategic Information Management Program of Asia Pacific Colleges – IBM Foundation. - Associate Professor of DLSU –Graduate School of Business at the Dasmariñas, Cavite campus. - MNSA, AIM masters in Business Administration. - Authors of an arnis book, business intelligence books and various training manuals. - Sportsman, educator, businessman and martial artist.

Meneleo E. Estepa, MD

President (2006-2008)

- Medical Director Air Force Health Service Mobile Training Team. - Asst. Section head ER Trauma of the Air Force General Hospital. - Medical Consultant of AFHSMTT. - Author of arnis training manuals, sportsman, educator, career government official and arnis enthusiast.

Capt. Ricardo F. Sarte Executive Vice President

- Vice-President and General Manager of Pearl Grace Shipmanagement Corporation. - CEO of the Little Angels Learning School. - President of the Liping Maharlika, Inc. - Executive Director of the Philippine Martial Art Troupe (PHILMAT) Generation 2. - Executive Director of the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club. - Businessman, sportsman & ma tial art enthusiast. r

Generosos M. Martinada Jr.

Vice President for Internal Affairs

- Commandant and Physical Education teacher of San Beda College of Alabang. - Vice President of the Commandant Association of Laguna District 1. - Vice President (Southern Tagalog Arnis Group) STAG Arnis Federation. - Chief Instructor of the Philippine Martial Art Troupe (PHILMAT) Generation 2. - Educator, sportsman and martial art expert.

Jose-Rene P. Herras Jr.

Vice President for External Affairs

- Supervisor, Electrical Testing Division of the Johanson Manufacturing Corp., Boonton, New Jersey, USA - Former Career foreign service officer of the Dept. of Foreign Affairs (Philippines). - The “1st Grand Maharlika Arnis Champion” in 1973. - Sports specialist in arnis under the SIGLAKAS project and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development (MYSD) - The first generation instructors of the Maharlika and one of the recognized arnis Masters of the Maharlika and NARAPHIL. - The 8 original members (pillars) of the PHILMAT and Arnis Instructor of the University of the East Arnis Club.

Josephine C. Rabosa

Secretary

- Language Teacher (Chinese, Japanese and French) and corporate translator of companies and an exclusive private school in Metro-Manila. - President of the Pasay City Arnis Club and Instructor-in-charge of the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club. - 6th generation instructor of the Maharlika and former arnis Instructor of the Polytechnic Community College Arnis Club of Makati City and Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Arnis Club. - Currently the head of the secretariat for the PHILMAT Generation II. - A lady with boundless energy, talent and dedication to her work.

Rene N. Fernandez

Treasurer

- Branch Manager of the Bank of the Philippine Island – Chino Roces Ave., Makati City - Corporate owner of one of the biggest plywood manufacturer in Visayas. - Undisputed champion in Kata form in Karate (1974-1975). - Pioneer of the Pintong Bato of Bacoor Maharlika Arnis Sikaran Association. - 3rd Generation of Maharlika instructors and member of the PHILMAT 1st generation. - Sports specialist in arnis “Siglakas’ project and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development. - Businessman, sportsman and m rtial arts expert. a

Rosana C. Tuangco

Auditor

- First runner-up “1st WEKAF Arnis Championship” Women’s Form Event and undisputed Form National Champion. - Member of the PHILMAT 1st generation and 4th generation instructors of the Maharlika. - Former Deputy Chief for personnel of the Engineering Equipment Inc. (EEI). - Academic scholar of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. - Businesswoman, martial art expert, arnis specialist and a loving housewife.

Jennifer O. Gonzalez Press Relation Officer

- Deputy Executive Director of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas. - M.A. in Int’l. Studies, University of Birmingham / Chevening scholar in UK. - 1994 UN Dev. Prog. Scholar for Print and Public Relations, Jakarta, Indonesia; 2000 Int’l. Visitor Prog. on Print and Journalism, Washington DC; and, various training related to PR and Media. - She has been featured in Sunday Time Magazine and Panorama as the “arnis lady”. - Pioneering member of the Luneta (Rizal Park) Arnis Club and member of the PHILMAT 1st generation. - A small lady with a big heart, arnis expert, government servant and a successful mother.

SPO1 Silvestre D. Abainza, (PNP)

Sgt.-At-Arms

- Senior Police Officer 1 of the Makati City Police Department, Traffic and Management Bureau. - WBC, IBF and WBO international official boxing referee and one of the renowned arnis international referees. - Featured in different tabloids and magazine for his achievement as boxing referee and exploit as a policeman on the field. - Chief arnis instructor of the Makati Public Safety Arnis Team and the SLVSF Arnis Club of Makati. - Sports specialist in arnis, volleyball and badminton of the “Siglakas” project and the MYSD Region III. - A dedicated public servant, superb athlete, and extra-ordinary talent and skills in arbitrating dif erent field sports. f

Reynaldo A. Postrado

Liaison Officer

- Proprietor/Exporter of R.A.P. Martial Arts Supply and Accessories. - Chief Instructor of the Quezon City Maharlika Arnis Club and Little Angels Learning School of Bacoor. - Arnis Instructor Phil. National Police Academy in Silang, Cavite. - Board of Director of NARAPHIL-NCR. - Businessman, educator and ma tial art expert. r

Sr/Supt. Adriatico del Camat, Jr.

Vice Chairman of the Board

- PhD/masters on Public Administration of Philippine Christian University. - Police Chief of the Aviation Security Command and former Deputy Chief for Intelligence & Investigation NCR. - Former Deputy Chief for Intelligence and Investigation Region II; Chief Officer for Intelligence and Investigation, Base Headquarters Special Support Group and Special Service, Camp Crame. - Vice President NARAPHIL-NCR. - Former Chief Arnis Instructor of the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club and the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Arnis Club. - Sportsman, Career government official and martial art expert.

Members of the Board

(2006-2008)

Alex P. dela Cruz NARAPHIL Chief

(Corps of Instructor)

Eduardo F. Paz

Instructor US Embassy Arnis Team

Filomeno V. Buena

President (NARAPHIL-NCR)

LESKAS

Chief Engr. Zaldie A. Franco

Primary Benefactor (PHILMAT II)

Engr. Rodel Rogacion

Maharlika Bacoor

Prof. Ma. Luz S. Arroyo

Adviser (PUP Arnis Varsity Team)

Bayani C. Andres, Jr.

USA East Coast

Victor P. Gallardo

USA West Coast

Rafael Navizaga, Jr.

USA Central

Alejandro Octubre, Jr.

Ontario, Canada

Juanito M. Gazo, Jr.

Australia

About NARAPHIL By Director Romeo C. Mascardo

The National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL) is a non-stock; non-profit organization and was organized on January 1975 with the merging of the four major arnis association in the country and one of them is the Maharlika Arnis Sikaran Association, visit their website at www.lipingmaharlika.blogspot.com. Its main objective is to revive and propagate the practice of arnis, the ancient Philippine martial art, both as a sport and as a means of self-defense. In August of the same year, all the arnis clubs in the country became unified under the leadership of Maj. Gen. Fabian C. Ver, its founding president.

Its initial project was the presentation of “The Festival of Asian Martial Arts” which was held at the Folk Arts Theatre in August of that year. Eleven top martial arts club of the country took part in this undertaking and was a major success with Arnis as the highlight of the event. The presentation of arnis by NARAPHIL to the martial arts practitioners in the country was geared toward as the leading advocator of arnis propagation and promotion of the Filipino martial art. The oldest arnis club of Cebu – Doce Pares, Modern Arnis of the Presas brothers, Lightning Scientific Int’l of Grandmaster Lema and other arnis clubs and grandmasters joined hands under the umbrella of NARAPHIL for one cause – arnis promotion. NARAPHIL’s initial efforts consist of:

• The promotion of arnis awareness and practice in schools and universities. • Training of the Law Enforcers and Military personnel. • Summer Arnis Trainers Course for physical education instructors in cooperation

with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports. • Trainers Course also started at the Philippine Military Academy, the Philippine

Army Training Command, the Philippine Constabulary Training Command and the Integrated National Police Command.

In 1977-1986, the efforts of the NARAPHIL were focused in training members of the

Barangay Tanod Brigade all over the country. The Kabataang Barangay (KB), a youth movement in the late 70’s, has adopted arnis as part of its physical fitness program. Together, these projects have helped create among citizenry recognition of arnis as a practical and systematic method of physical conditioning and as a martial art worthy of the worlds best.

It has also conducted annual national tournaments and quarterly Grandmasters Cup tournaments in honor of the living legacy of arnis - Cacoy Cañete, Ben Lema, Nonoy Mena and Tony Ilustrisimo. Most of these tourneys are held in Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Nayong Pilipino and affiliated clubs.

Today, arnis is practiced in almost all parts of the country and is well received in the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Austria, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, India, Spain, Portugal, South Africa and Mexico.

Our Vision Our vision is to upgrade the quality of arnis practice not only as a practical

alternative art of self-defense but as a good physical conditioning art as well; preserve the sanctity and integrity of the arnis Grandmasters legacy to the next generation. Preserve their own style as our living cultural heritage; and, promote and develop arnis into a national sport. Our Mission

Our mission is to start arnis program in the grassroots level and inculcate the rich cultural importance and practices that is embodied in the spirit of arnis. For that, arnis is the kindling spirit of our cultural heritage and practices. Use it as a vehicle towards development of good moral character and personality through self-discipline. Lastly, arnis awareness and become responsible citizens of our country. Our Strategies Objectives: 1. To put NARAPHIL back to the limelight as pioneering in arnis activities. 2. To create the Philippine Martial Arts Troupe (Generation II) 3. Coordinate with other agencies in promotion and regulation in practice of the art. Plans: 1. Annual sponsorship of the NARAPHIL Interschool Arnis Championship; National Team Championship; Grandmasters Cup and National Open. 2. Annual NARAPHIL Convention and Biennial election for Board of Directors. 3. Annual Solomon Manzanilla Summer Workshop/Seminar for P.E. Teachers.

Our People

We are all successful businessmen, professionals and career government officials

in our own field of endeavors wholeheartedly devoted our leisure time in promoting arnis as our contribution to our country and to the martial art world. Therefore, our vast

resources in management, leadership and trainers will help professionalize the system and upgrade the quality in its practice.

NARAPHIL “Chronicle of Arnis Events” From the “Diary of Manong”

1975 January - Birth of the NARAPHIL with little fanfare at the Malacañang PSG Office with BGen. Fabian C. Ver as the founding president and Atty. Levy Narvaez as Chairman of the Board. Formal signing of its constitution and By-Laws.

Birth of NARAPHIL

Officers, guests and friends witness and gathered at the Malacañang PSG Office for the signing of the constitution and By-Laws of NARAPHIL.

- Start of the comprehensive research study group and documentation regarding arnis practitioners in far flung areas of the country lead by Mr. Ramon Obusan and Romeo Mascardo.

August - The first project of the NARAPHIL “Festival of Asian Martial Arts”. Participated by, 11 different leading martial art clubs in the country with arnis as the highlights of the event held at the Folk Arts Theater.

Founding officers of NARAPHIL being inducted by Secretary Juan Manuel of the

Dept. of Education and Culture held during the “First Festival of Asian Martial Arts” at the Folk Arts Theatre.

MGen. Fabian C. Ver (NARAPHIL President) with Bongbong Marcos

(Danganan 1st Awardee) and Inducting Officer Secretary Juan Manuel and other guests.

“Danganan Award” The highest award given by the NARAPHIL body to individual/s that helped for the promotion of the Filipino Martial Arts to the world. NARAPHIL Chairman - Atty. Levy Narvaez and, NARAPHIL President - MGen. Fabian Ver conferring the award to Bongbong Marcos and plaque to the eleven other participants of the event.

September - Recognition of the nine NARAPHIL arnis grandmasters, namely - Ciriaco Cañete, Florentino Pecate, Ernesto Presas, Benjamin Lema, Remy Amador Presas, Jose Mena, Vicente Carin, Antonio Ilustrisimo and Momoy Cañete and subsequent affiliation of their respective club with NARAPHIL

1976 April - Opening of the official office of NARAPHIL at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and making the Nayong Pilipino as satellite office.

Central Office

Rizal Memorial Track and Football Field Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Adriatico corner Vito Cruz Sts.

Manila, Philippines

May - The first “Summer Basic Arnis Workshop for P.E. Teachers” of NARAPHIL at the Vigan House, Nayong Pilipino, Pasay City.

`Instructors and Participants

First NARAPHIL, “Summer Basic Arnis Workshop for P.E. Teachers. June - The organization of the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors headed by Carlito M. Benito and the inclusion of arnis as curriculum in the Phil. Military Academy in Baguio City.

- First “5 days in-house training of NARAPHIL Instructors” at the Cebu House, Nayong Pilipino.

PHILMAT members and instructors; training together at the Nayong Pilipino facilities.

August - The formal affiliation of the Cebu Eskrima Association (1975), as a regional chapter, headed by Atty. Dionisio A. Cañete of the Doce Pares group.

- Signing of Secretary Juan Manuel of the Ministry of Education Letter of Instruction #21 making arnis as part of the P.E. program among the different schools nationwide. (See LOI at the back of NARAPHIL book)

September - The birth of the “Philippine Martial Arts Troupe (PHILMAT)” of NARAPHIL. The cultural performing arm of the organization. They perform nationwide from Tuguegarao to Jolo among the different municipalities, cities, colleges and universities as part of their program on massive promotion for arnis awareness. PHILMAT

The cultural performing arm of NARAPHIL that became the backbone of its arnis promotion throughout the archipelago through series of exhibitions and presentations of the various styles from Kali to present day arnis.

October - The KB has formally adopted arnis as their physical conditioning art with NARAPHIL spearheading the said part of the program. The 45 days in-house training of the three thousand Metro-Manila Kabataang Barangay (KB) Brigade leaders, a youth

organization created by presidential daughter - Ms. Imee Marcos, held at the Mount Makiling Boy’s Scout Jamboree Site in Los Baños, Laguna.

KB Training at Rizal Memorial

KB Training at Quezon City

1977 January - The formulation of the “Guidelines for Membership Accreditation and Affiliation”, chaired by BGen. Wilfredo Estrada, and the start of massive formal affiliation of the different arnis clubs in the country.

Affiliating groups

BGen. Wilfredo Estrada conferring the accreditation to the different groups at his office. Modern Arnis of Grandmaster Remy Presas and UE Arnis Club.

The Metrocom-INP Arnis Group to name few of the hundreds.

March - The start of the “Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Arnis Basic Training Trainers Course” and subsequent creation as MMBTA Association with Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret) as founding president and subsequent affiliation to NARAPHIL the year after.

NARAPHIL Chief Instructor, Fernando Vinculado performing some demonstration

while MMBTAA president Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret) at the back ground.

Members of the Barangay Tanod brigade do the return demonstration

in front of the Central Office parking area.

April - The publication of the NARAPHIL Official Training manual authored by Romeo C. Mascardo - Executive Director of NARAPHIL, entitled “ARNIS for P.E. Teachers and Students.

The first NARAPHIL manuscript guide designed for the P. E. Teachers. NARAPHIL believes that they will be the primary backbone of arnis in the future for the grassroots development, and it did. A second edition update came out later for dissemination to the different school libraries. Another complimentary pamphlet that came out later for grading/promotion that served as the standard guide for examiners and practitioners in giving examination.

May - The annual “Summer Basic Arnis Course for P.E. Teachers” at Nayong Pilipino. June - “2nd 5 days in-house Training of the NARAPHIL Instructors” Bacolod House, Nayong Pilipino.

Senior and junior instructors including members of the PHILMAT underwent a

regular summer in-house training at the Nayong Pilipino satellite offices and facilities.

1978 March - The creation of the NARAPHIL Bicol Regional chapter in Legazpi, Albay headed by Maj. Moises Millena, Regional Director of MYSD. April - The massive influx of the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors to 230 members prompted the organization to retrain and reorient the corps for deployment to the different community-based arnis clubs. May - Start of the Siglakas-NARAPHIL project in arnis promotion nationwide

- NARAPHIL-Marcos Sports Academy (formerly NCPE), located inside the Rizal memorial Sports Complex, forged ties in teaching arnis among their enrolled P.E. teacher students and started their first batch of P.E. teachers with Messrs. Anacleto Rous and Generoso Martinada, Jr as instructors.

June - Performance of the PHILMAT with the Wushu group from People’s Republic of China at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City.

-“3rd 5 days in-house Training of the NARAPHIL Instructors” at the Bacolod House, Nayong Pilipino. August - Introduction of arnis to the Metrocom and PC/INP Training Command in Fort Bonifacio as part of their physical fitness program added in their curriculum. 1979 January - The creation of the NARAPHIL-NCR regional chapter headed by Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret.) of the MMBTAA.

April - Annual continuation of the “NARAPHIL-Siglakas Project” May - “Summer Basic Arnis workshop for P.E. Teachers” at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in cooperation with the Marcos Sports Academy (MASA).

MASA and NARAPHIL

Dir. Aparecio Mequi forged an agreement a year before this event, to augment its instructors coming from NARAPHIL to help in the arnis promotion to the grassroots level through their annual “Summer workshops for P.E. Teachers” with Messrs. Anacleto Rous and Generoso Martinada.

Graduation rites: BGen. Wilfredo Estrada, Dir. Aparecio Mequi and Dir. Romy Mascardo, Fernando Vinculado, Dante De Jesus and Dr. Leo Estepa.

The second batch of the MASA arnis teachers in front of the Central office together with their NARAPHIL Instructors Messrs. Anacleto Rous and Cmdt. Jun Martinada.

June - Introduction of Arnis to the Army Training Command in Fort Bonifacio as part of their physical fitness program. July - The Board approval of the Rules and Regulations for the “Full contact” event for tournament including the rules on Forms. The rules were formulated by the PHILMAT group. August - The first NARAPHIL sponsored full contact event in arnis among the different NARAPHIL arnis grandmasters was held in Philippine Normal College Gymnasium along Taft Avenue and corner Ayala Boulevard, Manila.

1980 January - The first NARAPHIL sponsored arnis tournament dubbed as the “1st NARAPHIL Inter-club Arnis Competition/Exhibition” and was held at the Gymnastics Gymnasium of the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila. This was the project conceived by the PHILMAT for a non-contact type of arnis competition.

- Eight school-based clubs participated the event namely: Makati Polytechnic Community College, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, Esteban Abada High School, Emilio Aguinaldo High School, Don Honorio Ventura College of Arts and Trade of Pampanga, Marcelo H. Del Pilar High School of Bulacan, Philippine College of Arts and Trade and Araullo High School. PUP won the first the very first event.

March - The “1st Arnis Instructors Trainers Course” sponsored by NARAPHIL in which five arnis grandmasters gave their time in teaching the corps of their own style. The arnis Grandmaster were: Grandmaster’s Benjamin Lema, Florentino Pecate, Jose G. Mena, Antonio Ilustrisimo and Ciriaco Cañete.

Grandmaster Benjamin L. Lema sharing his expertise to the NARAPHIL corps of instructors

during their rare stint “1st Arnis Instructors Training Course” (AITC – Class 1).

First batch of the NARAPHIL corps of instructors undergoing the 2 weeks training under the tutelage of the different NARAPHIL arnis grandmasters.

April - Annual continuation of the “NARAPHIL-Siglakas Project”.

- Publication of the supplementary manual for examination.

BAT Manual

A supplementary standard guide and system in giving examination for purposes of grading / promotion for arnis practitioners. It summarizes the whole basic lessons through series of illustrations and guide examinees in the manner on how they will perform in the examination area.

May - “Summer Basic and Advance Arnis workshop for P.E. Teachers” at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in cooperation of the MSA. June - “4th 5 days in-house training of NARAPHIL Instructors” at the NARAPHIL Central office. This annual retraining and reorientation of the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors on different topics related to their management and leadership training with guest lecturers from private individuals and organizations continued until 1985.

6th Batch of NARAPHIL Instructors

Fourteen of the 24 batch of instructors undergone an in-house training at the Central Office taken in 1985. Standing from L-R senior instructors Dr. Leo Estepa, Alex dela Cruz, Noel Estepa and Junch Martinada.

Rizal Track and Football Field

Course Director and Senior instructor Dr. Leo Estepa conducting series of lectures to the aspiring participants for instructorship inside the Central office conference room.

1981 January - The “1st NARAPHIL Annual Recognition Day”. Awarding of Certificates to the different staff, instructors and officers of the different affiliate groups for their invaluable recognition for the services rendered to NARAPHIL.

Members of the PHILMAT performing the regional style “Arnis-Sikaran” during the “1st

NARAPHIL Annual Conference and Recognition Day” at the Gymnastic Gymnasium at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex.

PHILMAT Arnis Demonstration

The Disarming techniques

Police - Umbrella Application

Burong Talo -The Finale

Regional variation - Sinawali

February - On the 17th of February, NARAPHIL was tasked through the MYSD to participate in welcoming Pope John Paul II by showcasing arnis demonstration along his way from the Redemptorist church in Baclaran, Pasay City stretching to Cultural Center of the Philippines in Vito Cruz St., Manila. This was the first ever biggest show of force ever undertaken by an arnis organization. It stretches five kilometers long and participated by 2600 members of the different school and community-based clubs of NARAPHIL.

Unsurpassed fete done by NARAPHIL in welcoming His Holiness for a brief visit to the Philippines.

Participated by more than twenty school arnis clubs in Metro-Manila and adjacent provinces.

April - Annual continuation of the “NARAPHIL-Siglakas Project”.

- “Summer Arnis workshop for P.E. Teachers” held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in cooperation with the MSA.

May - The “2nd NARAPHIL Inter-club Arnis Competition/Exhibition” held at the same venue and participated by 18 school and community-based clubs. The event was won by the Crus na Ligas Elementary School of Diliman, Quezon City.

Presentation of participants

Opening Ceremony

Guest Speaker

The Champion

Some of the participants

June - The “NARAPHIL Leadership Training for the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors” held in Magalang Agricultural College in Pampanga. Wherein they were taught on the management of clubs and leadership potentials sponsored by the MYSD Region III.

Participants Arnis Instructors Training

Magalang, Pampanga Agricultural College under the auspices of the NARAPHIL and MYSD Region III augmenting the 230 NARAPHIL corps of instructors.

Physical Training

Management Lectures

- Adoption of arnis as part of the Philippine Merchant Marine Academy

curriculum in their Physical Education with subsequent creation of their club headed by Cdt. Ricardo F. Sarte.

September - The creation of the NARAPHIL Region III chapter and subsequent oath-taking of the officers with the NARAPHIL President as inducting officer - Gen. Fabian Ver.

Presentation of arnis during the Central Luzon Athletic Competition and subsequent formation of the NARAPHIL Region III chapter.

The NARAPHIL President A very rare opportunity for the busy NARAPHIL president to drop by and induct the Regional Officers of NARAPHIL Region III chapter.

1982 January - The creation of the Region 2 NARAPHIL chapter headed by Dr. Meneleo E. Estepa. March - Instructors Trainers training with the different martial art groups namely: Phil. Amateur Judo Association under Mr. Joe Rillo, Phil. Aikido Sports Association under Mr. Ambrosio Gavileño and the Kung Fu (Hungar Boxing) under Mr. Michael Ho from HongKong Police Academy. 1983 July - The publication of the NARAPHIL Official gazette entitled “Maharlika”. August - Cebu Eskrima Association “1st Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the San Carlos University Gymnasium, Cebu City. Hosted and sponsored by the Doce Pares Arnis Club in cooperation with NARAPHIL.

- The “3rd NARAPHIL Inter-club Arnis Competition/Exhibition” held at the PUP Gymnasium in Sta. Mesa Campus. PUP Arnis Varsity Team won the Senior’s Division; Makati Polytechnic Community College - Junior’s Division; and, Isabelo delos Reyes Elementary School - the Primer Division. It was the biggest participation so far in all NARAPHIL tournaments by 41 school and community-based clubs. September - Election of the NARAPHIL-NCR regional chapter with Col. Angara as the newly elected president. 1984 February - Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club started their active participation with NARAPHIL activities through a monthly goodwill match among the affiliate clubs of NARAPHIL. March - Expansion of the Barangay Tanod Arnis Program to adjacent provinces and selected cities nationwide.

July - “X World Taekwondo Championship”, PHILMAT of NARAPHIL was invited to perform during the opening ceremony and Maj. Gen. Fabian Ver bestowed the highest honor from NARAPHIL the “Danganan Award” to Park Chung Hee (World Taekwondo Union president) for his great contribution to the martial art world. The second awardee of such by the NARAPHIL President. 1985 May - Continuous “Summer Arnis Program for P.E. Teachers” and the last of the NARAPHIL-Siglakas program due to the dissolution of the MYSD into other government agencies. 1986 June - Relocation of the NARAPHIL Office back at the Cebu House, Visayan Region, Nayong Pilipino.

Satellite Office at Cebu House

Isabelo delos Reyes Elementary School Arnis Club

for a Sunday Arnis demonstration at the Cebu House ground.

August - The “4th NARAPHIL Inter-Club Arnis Team Championship” sponsored by the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club. The first experimental full contact type of arnis competition was held using a padded sticks. Participated by eleven teams.

Grandmaster Ben Lema’s

Lightning Scientific Arnis Int’l.

Grandmaster Ilustrisimo group

Opening ceremony

Official table

PUP Arnis Varsity Team

Eventually won the team championship headed by their coach Professor Maria Luz S. Arroyo.

Grandmaster Jose Mena’s group

1987 January - Election of Atty. Dionisio Cañete as the NARAPHIL President held at the Manila Polo Club, Forbes Park Village, Makati and the election of Teodoro Javier as Chairman of the Board, Grandmaster Ernesto Presas as Vice President, Dir. Romeo Mascardo as Executive Director, Dr. Leo Estepa as Secretary and Nonito Limchua as Treasurer. A Satellite Office was established at Batangas St., Bangkal, Makati City. April - Approval of the Board to hold the International event here in the Philippines held at the Manila Polo Club, Forbes Park Village, Makati. 1988 March - The “5th NARAPHIL Inter-Club Arnis Team Championship’ sponsored by the Liping Maharlika, Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club and Nayong Pilipino Foundation Inc. Introduction of the live stick in the full contact tournament.

Tournament proper

Doce Pares of Manila with Grandmaster

Momoy Cañete.

Championship week

A demonstration by Grandmaster Benjamin Lema and Herman Licanto.

Teams to the Quarter-final Rounds

DHVCAT Arnis Club

Makati Public Safety Arnis Club

Rizal Memorial Arnis Club

PUP Arnis Varsity Team (Defending Champion)

Doce Pares of Manila

(New Team Champion)

July - Formation of the first Philippine Team and delegation to the WEKAF Tournament slated for next year.

Philippine Official Delegation

From L-R: Cmdt. Jun Martinada, Prof. Luz Arroyo, Elmer Ybañez, Romy Macapagal, Jaime Bataller, Sioc Glaraga, SPO1 Ver Abainza, Grandmaster Ben Lema, Vic Sanchez, Nonito Limchua, Grandmaster Nonoy Mena, Agripino Mayuga, Herman Licanto, Ariel Duran and Dr. Leo Estepa.

The Philippine Team

A picture taken at the NARAPHIL Office in Nayong Pilipino, Bacolod House where the team regularly practice for the first ever world arnis tournament.

1989 June - NARAPHIL was registered officially with the Securities and Exchange Commission as a non-stock and non-profit organization. August - The “1st WEKAF Invitational Arnis Championship” hosted by the NARAPHIL and held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Manila. Eight countries participated in the event.

Opening ceremony and presentation of participants

Personalities

Atty. Diony Cañete

(NARAPHIL President)

Hon. Mayor Toting Bunye

(WEKAF Chairman)

Teddy Javier

(NARAPHIL Chairman) Some of the participants

Emcee Elo Javier and Dr. Leo Estepa

leading the Opening Prayer

Three of the six official Referees Sioc Glaraga, SPO1 Ver Abainza

and Nonito Limchua

The Philippine Team

Australian Team

Japan Team (Demo only) and

Some German Delegates

The Swiss Team (Left) and

American Team (Right)

Guest US Embassy Team

Women’s Individual Form

Forms: Junior Division

Forms: Senior Division

Form Event: Senior’s division awaiting results

Philippines vs. Swiss team

Swiss won over the Filipino arnisador

USA vs. Philippines

1990 February - Election of the new set of officers at the Manila Polo Club and subsequent Oath Taking Ceremony at the same place. Dir. Romeo Mascardo as President and Teodoro B. Javier as the Chairman of the Board.

March - The “NARAPHIL 6th National Arnis Team Championship” held at the Tagalog Pavilion, Nayong Pilipino.

DHVCAT Arnis Club of Pampanga

(1st Runner-up – Jr. Division)

Doce Pares

Successfully defends title against US Embassy Team

May - “2nd International Philippine Martial Arts Federation Championship” held at the University of Sto. Tomas Gymnasium, España, Sampaloc, Manila in cooperation with the Modern Arnis and NARAPHIL. August - Start of the “NARAPHIL Arnis Grandmasters Cup” tournament conceived by NPAC Executive Director - Meneleo E. Estepa, MD, in honor of the living legacies of arnis - the Arnis Grandmasters. This is a joint project of the Nayong Pilipino Foundation Inc., NARAPHIL, Liping Maharlika and some private individuals and corporations like the Del Bros, U-Freight Parcel Services and Octagon Conglomerate Co.

NPFI Executive Dir. Atty. Apolonio Anota

(center) with the three NARAPHIL Gandmasters Nonoy Mena (R side), Ben Lema

(L side) and Tatang Ilustrisimo (far Left).

Honoree - Grandmaster Lema and winners

of the event Together with Attty. Anota

September - Formation of the “Philippine Team” for the next WEKAF event. 1991 April - “NARAPHIL 7th National Arnis Team Championship” held at the Tagalog Pavilion, Nayong Pilipino.

- Monthly Goodwill match at Nayong Pilipino and Quarterly Grandmasters Cup of NARAPHIL for the elimination rounds for the member to the Philippine contingent to “2nd WEKAF Championship”.

MAPSA vs. Kali Combatant

PUP vs. LSAI Tipas

Samahang Arnis ng Muntinlupa VS. Elpidio Quirino High School Arnis Club

July - Election of the NARAPHIL-NCR regional chapter with Mr. Joey Sumiller of the (UP LSAI-LESKAS) as the new elected president. August - “1st Inter-School Arnis Invitational Championship” sponsored by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Arnis Club and BPES in cooperation with NARAPHIL and NARAPHIL-NCR chapter. Six schools participated in the event namely: Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo College, Central Colleges of the Philippines, Don Honorio Ventura College of Arts and Trade (DHVCAT) Arnis Club of Pampanga, Eulogio “Amang” Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology, Elpidio Quirino High School Arnis Club and the host PUP Arnis Club.

Officials and Participants

December - “Kali Ilustrisimo” Arnis Grandmasters Cup held at the Palaurang Pambata, Nayong Pilipino, Pasay City.

Honoring Grandmaster “Tatang Tony” Ilustrisimo by the NPFI Exec. Director Atty. Apolonio

Anota and some of the winner of the different weight categories. June - Introduction of arnis to the Philippine Air Force by Dr. Leo Estepa with the 250th Presidential Airlift Wing as the recipient unit. August - “2nd WEKAF Arnis Convention/Championship” held at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila. The International Invitational tournament was held in Cebu City two days after the event.

1993 August - “NARAPHIL 8th National Arnis Team Championship” held at the Laruang Pambata Pavilion, Nayong Pilipino.

Some of the participants

Pamantukan

Samahang Arnis ng Muntinlupa

Philippine Navy Arnis Team

Philippine Army Arnis Team

September - PHILMAT placed first Runner-up during the “2nd Festival of Asian Martial Arts” at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. Participated by six countries and twelve leading martial arts of the country sponsored by the Philippine Aikido Sports Association which won the championship trophy. 1994 August - “3rd WEKAF Arnis Convention/Championship” held at the La Salle Ayala Alabang Gymnasium sponsored by the Muntinlupa Cultural office and local government headed by Hon. Mayor Ignacio “Toting” Bunye. 1995 April - “1st AFP Wide Arnis Championship” held at the OCWRSS Gymnasium, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City under the auspices of the AFPGHQ and NARAPHIL. Prelude to the inclusion of arnis event to the AFP-PNP Olympics.

October - “1st AnaKalang Arnis Festival” held in Nagcarlan, Laguna under the auspices of the municipal government of Nagcarlan, Alamid Arnis Lightning Scientific Int’l of Laguna and NARAPHIL. November - “UP-LESKAS Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the Vanguard Hall, UP Diliman, Quezon City in cooperation with Lightning Scientific Arnis International and NARAPHIL. 1996 March - “1st UAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and Pacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LEKAS and NARAPHIL. April - “2nd AFP Wide Arnis Championship” held at the OCWRSS Gymnasium, Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City under the auspices of the AFPGHQ and NARAPHIL. This tournament was later held annually as part of their arnis program in the AFP.

Awards and Officials

Philippine Air Force Arnis Team winning the event.

MSgt. Emmanuel Fontanos (Coach) receiving the Championship trophy.

May - “1st Laguna Governor Lina’s Cup Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the Gov. San Luis Sports Complex, Sta. Cruz, Laguna. June - “4th WEKAF Convention/Championship” held in Veterans Memorial Center at Carson City, California.

- First Batch of Basic Instructors training for the Philippine Air Force by Meneleo E. Estepa, MD and designation of Sgt. Emmanuel Fontanos as the instructor-in-charge of

the PAF Arnis Club. Twenty-six Basic Instructors successfully finished the course and became the core group of the PAF Arnis Team and Club. October - “2nd AnaKalang Arnis Festival” held in Nagcarlan, Laguna under the auspices of the municipal government of Nagcarlan, Alamid Arnis ng Laguna and NARAPHIL. December - Official inclusion of “arnis event” in the AFP-PNP Olympics. PAF Arnis Team winning the first over-all arnis event under the instructorship of Sgt. Emmanuel Fontanos. 1997 January - The creation of the Southern Tagalog (STAG) Arnis Federation, a regional chapter, headed by Florencio “Boy” Villeno. August - “NARAPHIL 9th National Arnis Team Championship” held at the Palaruang Pambata Pavilion at the Nayong Pilipino. This was the last sponsored by the NPAC and NPFI since the park complex has been recommended for closure due to the expansion of the NAIA Airport III Terminal. September - “1st Seminar Workshop for STAG Arnis Federation Instructors” held at Puerto Real Resort, Nagcarlan, Laguna.

Participants of the “1st Seminar Workshop for STAG Arnis Federation Instructors”

- Formal signing of the latest revision in the Rules and Regulations of

NARAPHIL Full Contact Tournament. October - “3rd AnaKalang Arnis Festival” held in Nagcarlan, Laguna under the auspices of the local government, Alamid Arnis ng Laguna and NARAPHIL.

Mike dela Cruz of the NPAC leads the Oath and

at the back Elmer Ybañez, Boy Villeno and Fil Buena.

NARAPHIL-NCR President Joey Sumiller, Nagcarlan

Mayor, STAG President Boy Villeno.

Participants take the Oath of Sportsmanship.

The winner

1998 February - “2ndUAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and Pacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LEKAS and NARAPHIL. September - “5th WEKAF Arnis Championship” held at the San Carlos Gymnasium, Cebu City. 1999 February - “1st Kabihasnan Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the La Salle Greenhills Gymnasium in cooperation with LESKAS and NARAPHIL. 2000 February - “3rd UAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and Pacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LEKAS and NARAPHIL.

June - Establishment of the NARAPHIL Satellite Office at the Amoranto Sports Complex headed by Alex Dela Cruz.

July - “6th WEKAF Convention/Championship” London, England. 2001 February - “2nd Kabihasnan Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the La Salle Greenhills Gymnasium in cooperation with LESKAS and NARAPHIL. May - Samahang Arnis ng Muntinlupa Invitational Tournament held at the La Salle Zobel Gymnasium, Ayala Alabang Village, Muntinlupa City. June - “UPLLB AngKang Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the UP Los Baños Gymnasium in Laguna and was sponsored by LESKAS-AngKang Arnis of UPLLB in cooperation with NARAPHIL. September - Oath taking ceremony of the new NARAPHIL-NCR officers and Board of Directors by Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo held at the Inihaw Restaurant at Harrison Plaza, Adriatico St., Malate, Manila. Filomeno Buena as president and Sr. Supt. Adriatico Del Camat, Jr. as Vice President. Other members of the Board were Alex dela Cruz, Ma. Luz Arroyo, Reynaldo Postrado, Rizalino Estacio, Silvestre Abainza and Sgt Mario Talledo.

Master Lino Estacio, Fil Buena – NARAPHIL-NCR president, Luz Arroyo, Alex dela Cruz.

Inducting Officer and NARAPHIL President Dir. Romeo C.

Mascardo (R side) and some officers and guests.

Jun Martinada (Chairman for Accreditation)

leads opening prayer.

Sec. Gen. Dr. Leo Estepa with the newly elected officers of

y - “4th UAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and

arch - “Rat-Ratan ng Warriors sa Makati” held at the Brgy. San Dionisio Gymnasium

une - “7th WEKAF Convention/Championship” held in Cebu City.

ecember - Blessing and relocation of the NARAPHIL Central Office at the Liping

the NARAPHIL-NCR

2002 FebruarPacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LEKAS and NARAPHIL. Min Makati and sponsored by the Wariors Eskrima Club of Makati headed by Atty. Dante Desierto and Chief Instructor Romy Santos in cooperation with NARAPHIL. J DMaharlika of Bacoor Gymnasium, Aniban I Subdivision, Bacoor, Cavite.

Outside facade

The Conference room

Weight training area

Ante-training room

Main training area

Reception and waiting area

2003 February - “Samahang Arnis ng Muntinlupa Invitational Tournament” held at the Star Mall Metropolis, Alabang, Muntinlupa.

- “3rd Kabihasnan Arnis Invitational Tournament” sponsored by La Salle Greenhills and LESKAS in cooperation with NARAPHIL. May - Introduction of arnis to the “Batang Quezon City Olympics 2003” held at the Amoranto Sports Complex, Roxas District, Quezon City.

During the rehearsal at the Amoranto Sports Complex.

Practice before the event.

A souvenir picture with the NARAPHIL Senior Instructors after the event.

September - “1st Liping Maharlika Arnis Invitational Tournament” at the Aniban I Covered Court, Bacoor, Cavite.

2004 January - Inaugural Training of the Samahang Arnis ng San Pedro at the Pacita Complex Basketball Court Phase IA, San Pedro, Laguna by Dr. Leo Estepa and Cmdt. Jun Martinada. February - “5th UAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and Pacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LESKAS and NARAPHIL. June - “7th WEKAF Convention/Championship” held in Cebu City. October - “2nd Liping Maharlika Arnis Invitational Tournament” at the Aniban I Covered Court, Bacoor, Cavite.

2005 February - “6th UAP Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the University of Asia and Pacific Basketball Court, UAP, Pearl Drive, Ortigas Center, Pasig City in cooperation with LESKAS and NARAPHIL. April - Re-establishment of the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club at the Vigan House.

July - “2005 NARAPHIL Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the Vigan House ground in Nayong Pilipino.

Prizes and awards

NPFI Exec. Dir. Atty. Charito Planas

and NARAPHIL Officers.

Honoring the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc. (NPFI) Exec. Dir. Atty. Charito Planas with a

specially designed cane for her support and encouragement of bringing back arnis activity at the New Nayong Pilipino facility since its re-opening to the public on December 2004.

The PUP and the PAF Arnis Team together with the NARAPHIL officials poses with the Guest Speaker. Atty. Charito Planas was a former Vice Mayor of Quezon City and Congresswoman for numerous years before retiring from politics and devoted her time in promoting indigenous sports and games at different parks of Metro-Manila.

Five teams participated in the day

long activities as tribute of the NPFI and Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club (NPAC) of bringing back arnis activity at the Nayong Pilipino. August - “UPLLB AngKang Arnis Invitational Tournament” held at the UP Los Baños Gymnasium in Laguna and was sponsored by LESKAS-AngKang Arnis of UPLLB in cooperation with NARAPHIL. October - Establishment of the NARAPHIL International chapter in Houston, Texas, USA initiated by Meneleo E. Estepa, MD.

“Bringing NARAPHIL to the world”

December - Inclusion of Arnis event in the Southeast Asean Games (SEA Games) under the auspices of the ARPI and the Phil. Olympic Committee.

2006 March - Graduation rites of the “First Batch – Maliksi” from the Little Angels Learning School of Bacoor, Cavite. The first school in Cavite that adopted martial arts as their alternative physical education classes instead of the regular ball games. Such martial arts taught besides from arnis are the judo, karate, taekwondo and next will be the wushu.

Batch Maliksi with their Chief Instructor - Rey Postrado, Principal sponsor - Chief Engineer Zaldie Franco and the school administrator who pioneered and adopting such concept in their school - Ms. Cristy Sarte.

Tribute to the NARAPHIL Grandmasters By Junch Martinada

In 1989, the NARAPHIL Board approved the project proposal of Dr. Leo Estepa

(NPAC Executive Director) to stage the Grandmasters Cup Arnis Tournament to honor the “Living legacies” of arnis.

Out of the nine NARAPHIL grandmasters only three heeded the call for it and launched the project in cooperation with the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc., Liping Maharlika Inc., Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club and some private corporations like Del Bros, U-Freight and individual kindhearted persons.

It was planned as a biennial tournament in addition to the annual national team tournament of NARAPHIL. The three grandmasters were: Grandmaster Benjamin L. Lema, Grandmaster Jose G. Mena and Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo.

1st Maesto Lema Grandmaster's Cup

Arnis Tournament (August 1991)

1st Kali Ilustrisimo Grandmaster's Cup

Arnis Trounament (December 1991)

1st "Mang Nonoy" Mena Grandmaster's Cup

Arnis Tournament (September 1992)

2nd "Mang Nonoy" Men Grandmaster's Cup

Arnis Tournament (March 1993)

Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo awarding, Grandmaster Benjamin Lema his Plaque of Recognition for his contribution to the Filipino martial art. The award was a compliment of the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc. headed by their Executive Director - Atty. Apolonio Anota.

A rare opportunity picture of the three NARAPHIL Arnis Grandmasters being given tribute by

the Nayong Pilipino Foundation, Inc. Executive Director - Atty. Apolonio Anota (center)

The Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club members together with the two honoree - Grandmaster

Benjamin Lema and Grandmaster Jose Mena with NPAC Executive Director - Dr. Leo Estepa.

Training with the Grandmasters Arnis Grandmasters namely: Grandmaster Benjamin Lema, Grandmaster Florentino Pecate, Grandmaster Jose Mena, Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo and Grandmaster Ciriaco Cañete

In 1977, there was a massive influx of NARAPHIL membership in all level of the society nationwide because of the establishment of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development which supported the "Siglakas Project". Included in this sports project was the introduction of arnis to all level of the society nationwide even in farflung areas, from Tuguegarao to Jolo and all cities, provinces and schools.

Arnis awareness became massive that prompted the NARAPHIL hierarchy to fast track their "Trainers Program" and adopt a better program upgrading their teaching capability through a series of training modules. The demand for quality instructors has expanded the Corps to 230 instructors that need further orientation, training and teaching expertise.

One of the training modules was the "Training with the NARAPHIL Grandmasters". Only five of the NARAPHIL grandmasters were able to render their services and it was an honor and rare opportunity for the Corps for their training. This

was one of the initial projects of Dir. Romeo Mascardo (NARAPHIL Executive Director) and Mr. Fernando Vinculado who assumed the position of the NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Corps (1979-1985).

The project was to help the corps appreciate and give them insights on the different styles of this grandmasters and help them preserve their legacy and flourish.

Training the Grassroots "Going to the Grassroots Level"

All of that NARAPHIL undertakings were usually done in cooperation with other government and private agencies such as the Ministry of Education and Culture, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of National Defense, Rotary and Jaycees.

With the advent of the "Siglakas Project" in 1978, the NARAPHIL was able to pursue and continue again their grassroots program nationwide that started in 1976.

The annual "P.E. Teachers Summer Arnis Training Course" was initiated in 1974 by the Maharlika Arnis Sikaran Association in cooperation with the SPODEPHIL Foundation of "Ka Doroy" Valencia (a notably well-known editor of the Philippine newspaper - Manila Bulletin). NARAPHIL pursued on this worth while program and provided a strong backbone of qualified instructors of that project especially to present day arnis practitioners.

NARAPHIL launched a massive training of "Arnis Trainers Program" in 1976 in anticipation of the demand for arnis instructors in the future. The first part of that program was the upgrading and retraining of the 46 existing instructors of the defunct Maharlika Arnis Sikaran Association and other groups into a fully able and qualified instructors.

NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Carlito Benito (1975-

1979) leading their arnis training (1976)

"NARAPHIL P.E. Teachers Summer Basic Arnis

Course" Vigan House, Nayong Pilipino Pasay City (1976)

NARAPHIL Instructor Fernando Vinculado supervises their arnis training (1978).

"NARAPHIL P.E. Teachers Summer Basic Arnis Course"

San Miguel National High School San Miguel, Bulacan (1978).

The second part of NARAPHIL Arnis Trainer's Program was the training of the P.E. Teachers to help the organization in its grassroots level program especially in the school level.

NARAPHIL P.E. Teachers Summer Advance Arnis Training

Tacurong National High School Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat

(April 28-30, 1979)

Graduation Rites

"Participants of the NARAPHIL Summer Advance Arnis Course"

Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat (1979)

Dr. Leo Estepa awarding some of the top graduates.

NARAPHIL Chief Instructor (1979-1985)

delivering his Recessional Remarks.

NARAPHIL Instructor Dr. Leo Estepa with the participants doing their return demonstration.

NARAPHIL Arnis Grandmaster Florentino "Tino"

Pecate showing some of the advance arnis technique to the participants (Corto techniques).

Grandmaster Florentino Pecate and NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Fernando Vinculado showing some

demonstration on largo techniques in arnis.

And the third part of their program was geared towards the out-of-school youth and community level where the Kabataang Barangay and Barangay Tanod came into play. "The Barangay Tanod Brigade and NARAPHIL"

The inclusion of arnis training with the Barangay Tanod in 1977. And later adopting it as their means of self-defense and physical conditioning in their respective barangay, has contributed a lot for the massive increase of membership to the organization. NARAPHIL was able to train the 25,000 strong Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Brigade and they also contributed to the manpower resources for the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors.

In 1979, the Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Arnis Association was finally organized under the leadership of Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret.). Adjacent provinces and cities adopted the program of the MMBTAA and requested for more instructors to their respective barangay.

"Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Arnis Training" (1977-1986)

A demonstration by some of the Tanod Arnis

Trainers infront of the NARAPHIL Central Office parking lot.

NARAPHIL Corps of Instructor Chief (Fernando

M. Vinculado) showing some of the Unarmed Defense technique.

A return demonstration of the participants

"Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Arnis Training Course" Class - 3 (1978-1979).

NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Fernando Vinculado

with MMBT Arnis Association President Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret.) showing some of the technique to the participants of Class Batch #3.

Graduation Rites

"Metro-Manila Barangay Tanod Arnis Trainers Course" 17 February 1981

From L-R: BGen. Wilfredo Estrada

(NARAPHIL Chairman for Accreditation), Dr. Aparecio Mequi (Guest Speaker),

Romeo Mascardo (NARAPHIL Exec. Dir.), Fernando Vicnulado (Chief Instructor), Dante de Jesus and

Dr. Leo Estepa.

P.E. Teachers Summer Arnis Training Course Gymnastics Gymnasium

Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Vito Cruz, Manila May 9-23, 1981.

Graduation Rites

"P.E. Teachers Summer Arnis Training Course" May 24, 1981

This was the 5th Batch of P.E. Teachers undergoing a regular "Summer Arnis

Training Course" at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex since NARAPHIL was invited by the (NCPE) National College of Physical Education and presently called Philippine Institute for Physical Education and Sports (PIPES) to handle some of their summer classes in arnis. Messrs. Anacleto Rous and Generoso Martinada were the instructors assigned to handle them since they are both in the field of Physical Education.

Majority of this P.E. Teachers who took part of the program were from the provinces and were expected to conduct the same arnis course program to their respective schools. The huge problem of echoing and monitoring their program was resolved when the "Siglakas Project" came into operation. NARAPHIL Instructors were sent to the different provincial schools where requests for grading/promotions were conducted including some request for the same "Summer Arnis Training Course" in their respective schools or communities.

Although NARAPHIL had never had a huge financial resources to finance most of their projects especially the monitoring and echoing part, they were able to pursue those programs through a good management opportunities and dedicated manpower resources. The continuity of events leading one to the other made the NARAPHIL Arnis Training Program a concrete and most successful arnis promotion program ever handled by an organization that has never been surpassed or duplicated to any present day organization in arnis.

NARAPHIL Senior Instructor Jun Martinada supervising their return demonstration at the NARAPHIL Office parking lot.

Participants with Messrs. Jun Martinada and Anacleto Rous

(NARAPHIL Instructors in front of NARAPHIL Office parking lot Track and Football Field Arena RMSC, Vito Cruz, Manila.

NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors "Leadership Training"

June 5-9, 1980 Pampanga Agricultural College

Magalang, Pamganga

The second part of their training was the "Leadership Training" under the auspices of the MYSD and NARAPHIL. Incorporated in the training; not only being a role model of a leader but in the management of clubs, planning and strategies.

Their physical conditioning did not only consist of training in arnis but with the other kind of martial arts - karate, judo, aikido, kung-fu and Taekwondo. All instructors were then required to at least undergo two other martial arts to qualify for the Senior Instructor level and complete the five modules.

NARAPHIL Exec. Director and Course Director (Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo) conducting one of the

series of "Leadership Training" lectures.

Chief Instructor Bing Vinculado

Conducting the arnis training.

Course Instructors - Bing Vinculado, Boboy Herras, Ed Paz and Maj. Leonardo Maddela (Ret.)

28 of the 36 participants.

"1st NARAPHIL Inter-Club" Arnis Exhibition/Competition

Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Gymnastics Gym (July 1980)

By Liping Maharlika

In September 1979, the “1st Arnis Grandmasters Tournament” was held at the Philippine Normal College gymnasium along Taft corner Ayala Avenue, Manila.

It was participated by 8 grandmasters and eventually won by Grandmaster Ciriaco “Tiyo Cacoy” Cañete (Doce Pares – Cebu). The 1st Runner-up was Grandmaster Florentino “Tino” Pecate of (YMCA Manila) and the 2nd Runner-up trophy went to Grandmaster Benjamin "Mang Ben" Lema. It was a hotly contested fight because the name of their group was at stake but one thing came out from the grandmasters personality, their true of being a gentleman and an arnisador. It was their followers who were more of the problem than the Grandmaster s.

That was the very first full contact ever sponsored by the NARAPHIL and probably the last for that category since it did not really achieve the goals intended for the tournament. It further enhanced the rift and differences of the different followers instead of uniting them and bringing them closer together under the umbrella of the organization. So the organization concentrated for the meantime on the non-contact type of tournament like the one pioneered by the PHILMAT.

The PHILMAT pioneered the very first non-contact type of arnis tournament dubbed as the “1st NARAPHIL Inter-Club Arnis Exhibition/Competition” on July 1980 at the NARAPHIL Central Office at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. Eight groups participated in that event namely: Don Honorio Ventura College of Arts and Trade (DHVCAT Pampanga), Makati Polytechnic Community College (MPCC), Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Esteban Abada High School of Manila, Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Arnis Club, Araullo High School and Emilio Aguinaldo High School. PUP Arnis Club won the very first championship trophy. Two more succeeding tournaments were held before finally changing the format into a full contact type when Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club took over the sponsorship from NARAPHIL.

The "3rd NARAPHIL Inter-Club Arnis Exhibition/Competition" was held at the PUP Sta. Mesa Gymnasium on August 1983 and was participated by 26 arnis clubs affiliated with NARAPHIL, four of which came from nearby provinces - Pampanga, Bulacan, Cavite and Laguna.

The succeeding 4th-9th NARAPHIL National Team Tournament was held in Nayong Pilipino. The 4th and 5th was an experimentation on the use of padded sticks but came out unimpressive due to the impact of its softness. Since they don't feel any pain when they are beaten, players become callous and the art looses its form. So the Rules Committee decided to use the real stick for the players to be more cautious when they get hit because of the pain. This is the same method used to this date with the advent of safer protective devices developed.

Presentation of the participants by Dante de Jesus - NARAPHIL Press Relation Officer

"2nd NARAPHIL Annual Inter-Club" Arnis Exhibition/Competition

Gymnastics gymnasium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Vito Cruz, Manila

March 1981

The Rizal Memorial Sports Complex Arnis Club showing their basic arnis lessons

as part of their presentation to the exhibition/competition.

The DHVCAT of Pampanga showing their basic techniques

in striking and blocking as part of their number in the competition.

Defending Champion PUP Arnis Club performing their different pattern of the basic lesson. They

eventually placed 1st Runner-up with the "Cruz na Ligas Elementary School Arnis Club" of Quezon City winning the championship trophy.

The MMBTAA winning the 4th Runner-up Trophy.

The new Champion "Crus na Ligas Elementary School Arnis Club"

of Diliman, Quezon City defeating the PUP Arnis Club.

"2nd NARAPHIL Annual Inter-Club"

Arnis Competition Gymnastics gymnasium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex

Vito Cruz, Manila March 8, 1981 by PHILMAT

Formal Opening of the event.

Parade of the participants with their corresponding muses.

Above is the PUP Arnis Club headed by their Adviser - Mrs. Ma. Luz S. Arroyo.

NARAPHIL Executive Director - Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo acknowledging BGen Wilfredo

Estrada (NARAPHIL Chairman for Membership and Accreditation Committee - seated far left) before delivering his Welcome Remarks during the event.

Five trophies are at stake with 14 teams participating.

Col. Arcadio S. Lozada (Guest Speaker) delivering his speech during the event.

Seated in the presidential table are from far left with dark glasses is BGen. Wilfredo Estrada, Dir. Romeo Mascardo, Maj. Leonardo Maddela (MMBTAA President), Dante de Jesus and Dr. Meneleo Estepa. Standing at the back is the Chief of NARAPHIL Corps

of Instructor - Fernando Vinculado.

NARAPHIL Performs "Women's Week Celebration"

March 15, 2006 Pasig City Sports Gymnasium

By Capt. Rick Sarte

NARAPHIL was invited to render an arnis exhibition by the Pasig City ladies auxiliary corps in commemoration of their "Women's Day Celebration" last 15 March at the City Sports Gymnasium. The Guest Speaker for the event was the City Mayors wife Mrs. Eusebio and one of the special guests for the event was Ms. Jennifer O. Gonzales, Deputy Commissioner for Foreign Filipino Immigrants Abroad under the office of the President.

Jenny, as popularly called by peers and friends, is also the current NARAPHIL Press Relation Officer. She served; under five Philippine presidents as a career secretary to the Presidential Press Secretary's office. She is a Foreign Service graduate of the Lyceum Philippines and got numerous scholarship grants abroad and awards.

Program Director - Capt. Rick Sarte.

She was the darling of the PHILMAT during her stint with it and made a lot of impact to the ladies of the troupe. She was also featured in two magazines as the "Arnis Lady" and "Lady with the Stick".

She is still very active with NARAPHIL to this date that an invitation for her speaking engagement never forgot to invite NARAPHIL for a performance of her dear beloved organization in which she grew with most of her youth.

As designated Program Director, I'm also the narrator and choreographer for the arnis numbers to be performed by my team.

A weekly preparation is really not enough to hone our skills but truly realized that there is still a lot of overhauling to do before we can fully organize again the "PHILMAT Generation II". A lot of resources is much needed to purchase and develop the different costumes that the first generation had.

Talking with some members of the Ladies Auxiliary Corps in Pasig, they found it very

amusing for our ladies with such skills in the art of self-defense. They were requesting training for some of their members after this event and hopefully it becomes one of our permanent activity again in Pasig City.

Members of the performing team waits for the cue from the Program Director to start their

exhibition number. The team is headed by three senior PHILMAT members - Jun Martinada, Zaldie Franco and Ana Tuangco and supported by other instructors of NARAPHIL and the

students from the PUP Arnis Varsity team.

Instructors Rey Postrado (QCMAC) and Mike dela Cruz (LM Bacoor) performs the Advance sparring.

Members of the PUP Arnis Varsity team headed by Prof. Luz Arroyo (also one of the Seniors of PHILMAT) demonstrate the different disarming techniques.

Ana performs the Maharlika corto against Rey in their number. Ana, like Jenny, is one of the PHILMAT ladies who won numerous medals in "Form" competition events. Now a housewife and a mother, her daughte(Tenten) followed her foot stepalso winning medals in another spevent - ice skating.

r s by

orts

Other members of the PUP Arnis Varsity Team performs also the other disarming techniques.

Mike and Rey teamed-up to demonstrate the Maharlika Form #1 (Solo baston - Basic Form).

"Arnis is the most practical martial art ever developed adapted for women" by Jenny Gonzales

Oldest Published Arnis Book By Meneleo Estepa, MD

What makes the NARAPHIL a primary

institution of arnis learning is not only the people behind it, but the vast resources that has been accumulated for years of existence.

For instance, they have one of the oldest book probably published in existence. It was published in 1957 by the U.P. Press Inc. and authored by Mr. Placido Yambao et. al. It is entitled "Mga Karunungan sa Larong Arnis" and was written in a Pilipino vernacular language. This is where most of those book presently in existence got their terminologies for their own terminologies of techniques.

In 1974, a group of young high school boys from Ramon Magsaysay High School of Manila joined by Romeo Mascardo and Ramon Obusan launched a search campaign to locate the group of Mr. Yambao and company in the northern part province of Manila - Hagonoy, Bulacan. This was

the place where the book was believed to have been conceived and written according to the account in the book but unfortunately, even the public officials seems to have no record or track of the people in it.

First Arnis published book on record.

Probably their search never proved fruitless because the book itself is a proof of the knowledge is really in existence long before it became popular later in the succeeding years. One reason was to give honor to the five people who joined together for the publication of that book, namely: Palcido Yambao, Buenaventura Mirafuente, Luis Cruz, Juan Aclan and Francisco dela Cruz.

These five gentlemen were also responsible in the formation of their own group in 1931 as the "Kapisanan ng Dunong at Lakas at ng Tabak ni Bonifacio - Order of Bonifacio".

According to the book, they traveled from places during May festivities to showcase their knowledge and skills in arnis by performing series of exhibitions. Later in 1950's, they have started teaching to some few school institution and one of them was at "Manila High School" on August 6, 1954 as a regular physical education subject.

The book has less than a hundred pages and is divided into three parts namely; a semi-comprehensive history of arnis, the basics and terminologies and the proposed rules and regulations in the governance of arnis tournament. The first few pages was dedicated to the five personalities with their brief history and personal account in their knowledge of the art. The basics have a complete pictorials and description of each technique.

What makes this book very interesting was the way they were carefully arranged and crafted for easy comprehension and the terms they used in each technique which we believed this is where the other authors got their terms from it.

Therefore, we believe it is appropriate and high time that due recognition should be given to them for their efforts and Filipinoism. They have raised the quality of arnis knowledge to where it is today.

From the bottom of our hearts, we salute you gentlemen for all the efforts you have contributed in documenting our knowledge of the art! "Ang karunungang ito and tanging naging kalasag at panananggol ng ating magigiting na Bayani ng naglahong himagsikan nang taong 1896, hanggang sa maitirik ang watawat ng naglahong Republika sa Malolos"

By Placido Yambao

"Arnis book for P.E. Teachers and Students" Official NARAPHIL Training Manual

A training manual was published in 1977 as a

result of the rapid expansion of the NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors and the continuous "Summer Arnis Workshop/Seminar for P.E. Teachers". The demand for a standard Program of Instruction among the teachers and the Corps prompted the publication of this book authored by NARAPHIL Executive Director - Dir. Romeo C. Mascardo.

This manual is a Basic Arnis Course designed for P.E. Teachers who undergone the course and serves as a guide in the process of their teaching in their respective schools. It was designed even for students who want to learn it through this book and follow them with ea

en e process of publishing the 2nd edition of th

book.

ion. It also includes the measurement of the examination area and position of the three examiners. The last page comprises the result of the grading/promotion - detail of performance on each technique and overall assessment.

se. Thousands of this, book were distributed among the different school libraries ev

until to this date. The association is in th is

Another manual that was published in 1979 in conjunction with this was a Basic Arnis Testing Manual wherein the examinee is guided in the mechanics of the grading/promotion. It consists of simple instructions and official documentation of the course in the first part. Majority of the content of this manual is mostly an illustration sequences of the different basic arnis technique undertaken and how they will be done or executed during the examinat

The NARAPHIL Official Training Sticks

The rattan cane is the most ideal and cheapest stick adopted in playing arnis. Ideal because of its lightness in weight, durability, sturdiness and flexibility. It has a tough skin which accounts for its durability and sturdiness. Its fibrous body makes it flexible and light in weight. The greater the number of nodes or the smaller the internodes of a rattan cane, the sturdier and less flexible it becomes, and the better the quality of the cane for playing.

Probably there is no other group who is more meticulous than NARAPHIL in discovering things in pursuit of attaining excellence. Such were the first hand-crafted made arnis sticks in which a very symbolical art was etched in the handle of the rattan stick. Every stick is a work of art taken from the finest poles of rattan later meticulously selected for the purpose of hand-crafting and refined in a high quality gloss paint finish.

Today it is exported world-wide for collector's items only and usually of limited stocks for exclusive use of members or sometimes given as token of gratitude to honor people and their friends. However, they accept also request from some other groups to engrave their ensignia at the hilt of their sticks.

Truly they are people of so many talents and creativity who loves to discover new horizons in pursuit of excellence in their art.

Note the close-up view to vividly

illustrate the high quality of craftsmanship and materials comparable

to an artist with his painting.

The hilt is engraved with the official seal of NARAPHIL and an art work on both ends of the stick with so many ethnic design to choose from. The pioneering craftsman of this art was the Nayong Pilipino Arnis Club in which you can see their ensignia at both ends of the stick.

Shown is the NARAPHIL casing for the sticks with their emblem sewn at pocket of their case. Symbol of excellence!

the

For price quotes on designs email Master Reynaldo Postrado at: liping_maharlikare@yahoo.com

Want to contact NARAPHIL for more information?

NARAPHIL

Philippines Secretariat Office Cmdt. Jun Martinada - Email Capt. Rick Sarte - Email Satellite Office c/o Pearl Grace Shipmanagement, Inc. 1963 T. Agoncillo St. cor. Quirino Ave. San Andres, Manila, Philippines 1017 Tel. #: (362) 526-4013 or (362) 525-1186 Central Office #28 Narra St., Aniban I Subdivision Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines 4102 Tel. # (6346) 417-5078

USA Secretariat Master Jose-Rene P. Herras, Jr. - Email 736 N 7th Street Newark, New Jersey 07107 Tel. #: (973) 900-4875 Rolando Tan - Email 15537 Nordhoff St. Apt. 28 North Hills, California 91343 Tel. #: (818) 920-5183 Canada Secretariat Alejandro Octubre, Jr. - Email 5770 Dawlish Crescent Mississauga, Ontario L5V 1W4 Canada Tel. #: (905) 821-1252

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