The Art of Filipino Martial Arts: The Martial Arts Collection

By Christopher Ford

"The Art of Filipino Martial Arts" celebrates the vibrant and multifaceted world of FMA. From its historical origins to the modern-day practice, this book provides an in-depth exploration of the techniques, philosophies, and cultural significance of Filipino martial arts. Whether you are a practitioner seeking to deepen your knowledge or an enthusiast eager to learn, this book serves as a comprehensive guide that sheds light on the beauty and power of this ancient art form. Let us embark on this journey together and discover the hidden treasures within the realm of Filipino Martial Arts.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Christopher Ford
• Release date: Oct 7, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215357637

Book preview

Introduction

In the heart of the Philippines lies a rich and dynamic martial arts tradition known as Arnis, Kali, and Eskrima. For centuries, the Filipino people have developed a unique combat system that embodies their history, culture, and spirit. From the battlefields of ancient times to the modern arenas of self-defence, this book will take you on a journey through the fascinating world of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA).

Chapter 1: Origins and Historical Context

The roots of Filipino martial arts

Pre-colonial influences on Filipino martial arts (FMA) and indigenous fighting styles are deeply rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines. Here are some key points to understand:

Indigenous Tribes: The Philippines is home to numerous indigenous tribes, each with its unique martial traditions. These tribes include the Tagalog, Visayan, Igorot, and many others. Their fighting techniques often revolved around survival, warfare, and protection from external threats.

Bladed Weaponry: Many indigenous Filipino tribes were known for their expertise in bladed weapons, particularly the bolo (a machete-like knife) and the kampilan (a long, wide-edged sword). These weapons played a central role in both combat and daily life.

Empty-Hand Techniques: Indigenous martial arts also included empty-hand combat methods. These techniques were designed for close-quarters combat and included striking, grappling, joint locks, and throws.

Cultural Significance: FMA wasn't just about combat; it was deeply intertwined with Filipino culture, rituals, and folklore. It was often passed down through oral tradition and practiced during festivals and ceremonies.

Influence of Geography: The diverse geography of the Philippines, with its jungles, mountains, and coastal regions, influenced the development of specific fighting styles suited to different terrains.

Trade and Interaction: The Philippines served as a crossroads for trade and cultural exchange in Southeast Asia. This exposure to different cultures, such as Chinese, Malay, and Indonesian, influenced FMA techniques and weaponry.

Community and Warfare: Indigenous tribes used martial arts not only for personal protection but also for tribal warfare. This led to the development of battle-tested techniques and strategies.

Lack of Written Records: Much of the knowledge of pre-colonial FMA and indigenous fighting styles was transmitted orally, which makes it challenging to reconstruct the complete history and techniques. Written records were scarce.

Overall, pre-colonial influences and indigenous fighting styles laid the foundation for the diverse and adaptable Filipino martial arts we know today as Arnis, Kali, and Eskrima. These ancient traditions continue to be celebrated and practiced, embodying the resilience and heritage of the Filipino people.

The impact of Spanish colonization and its effect on FMA

The Spanish colonization of the Philippines, which began in the 16th century and lasted for nearly 400 years, had a significant impact on Filipino martial arts (FMA), influencing both its development and preservation. Here are some key effects of Spanish colonization on FMA:

Suppression and Cultural Adaptation: The Spanish authorities sought to suppress indigenous Filipino culture, including their martial traditions. As a result, many aspects of FMA were practiced discreetly or adapted to appear as harmless dances or games. This allowed FMA to survive in the face of colonial repression.

Religious Influence: The introduction of Christianity by the Spanish colonizers led to the incorporation of Christian symbolism and terminology into FMA. Some FMA styles and techniques were renamed and reinterpreted to align with Christian beliefs, making them more palatable to the colonial rulers.

Weapon Restrictions: The Spanish authorities imposed strict regulations on the possession and use of bladed weapons, which were central to many FMA styles. This led to the development of hidden or improvised weapons techniques, such as the use of farm implements and everyday objects for self-defence

Fusion of Styles: The interaction between Spanish conquistadors and Filipino warriors resulted in the exchange of combat techniques. Elements of Spanish fencing and weaponry were integrated into some FMA systems, leading to the development of hybrid styles.

Documentation: Some aspects of FMA were recorded in written texts during the colonial period. While these documents were often incomplete and written from a European perspective, they provide valuable insights into the martial arts of that time.

Resilience and Adaptability: Despite the challenges posed by Spanish colonization, FMA continued to evolve and adapt. It remained a vital part of Filipino culture and identity, passed down through generations within families and communities.

Revival and Modernization: After the Philippines gained independence from Spanish rule in the late 19th century, there was a resurgence of interest in preserving and promoting FMA. Martial arts masters worked to systematize and codify FMA techniques, leading