Eskrima: The Complete Guide to the Philippines' Ancient Martial Art

Eskrima, also known as Arnis or Kali, stands as one of the world's most practical and combat-effective martial arts, representing the fighting spirit and warrior culture of the Philippines. This indigenous martial art has evolved from ancient tribal warfare into a sophisticated combat system that emphasizes weapons training, empty-hand techniques, and the seamless flow between armed and unarmed combat.

Understanding the Three Names: Eskrima, Arnis, and Kali

While these three terms are often used interchangeably to describe Filipino martial arts, each carries distinct regional and linguistic origins that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the Philippines.

Kali is considered the oldest of the three terms, originating from the southern Philippines where Cebuano is spoken. The name derives from the Filipino language, where "Ka" stands for kamot (hand) and "Li" represents lihok (movement), together meaning "movement of the hand". Some sources trace the term to the ancient Filipino word kalis, referring to bladed weapons, documented in Spanish records dating from 1612.

Eskrima emerged from the central Philippines and derives from the Spanish word esgrima, meaning "fencing." This term became prevalent when Spanish colonizers observed Filipino fighters using stick-based combat techniques that resembled European fencing.

Arnis originated from the Spanish word arnés, meaning "armor" or "harness." The term evolved from arnes de mano (harness of the hand), describing the deft hand movements Filipino practitioners displayed. During Spanish colonial rule, Filipinos cleverly disguised their martial arts training within traditional Moro-Moro theatrical performances, where the term "arnis" referred to the armor worn by performers.

Today, Republic Act No. 9850, signed on December 11, 2009, officially recognizes Arnis as the Philippine National Martial Art and Sport, defining it as "an indigenous Filipino martial art and sport characterized by the use of swinging and twirling movements, accompanied by striking, thrusting and parrying techniques for defense and offense".

Ancient Origins and Historical Foundation

The precise origins of Filipino martial arts remain shrouded in mystery due to the systematic destruction of historical records by Spanish colonizers, who burned indigenous texts and banned the use of the native Baybayin alphabet. However, archaeological evidence and oral traditions suggest that these fighting systems existed long before Spanish arrival in 1521.

Pre-Colonial Development

Filipino martial arts likely developed through cultural exchange with neighboring Southeast Asian civilizations, including influences from the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires. Trade relationships with China, India, and other regional powers as early as the 10th century introduced various fighting techniques that were adapted and integrated into indigenous systems.

The art drew influences from Kalarippayattu, one of India's oldest martial arts, which uses various weapons and empty-hand fighting techniques. Some traditions suggest the martial art was named after the Hindu goddess Kali, representing death and transformation.

The Battle of Mactan: A Defining Moment

The first documented use of Filipino martial arts against foreign invaders occurred on April 27, 1521, during the famous Battle of Mactan. Datu Lapu-Lapu and his warriors defeated Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan's Spanish forces using traditional weapons and fighting techniques.

According to Antonio Pigafetta's eyewitness account, Lapu-Lapu's approximately 1,500 warriors faced 60 Spanish soldiers armed with crossbows, muskets, and steel armor. The Filipinos used "bladed weapons and 'sticks hardened by fire,'" overwhelming the heavily armored Europeans through superior numbers, knowledge of local terrain, and effective combat tactics.

This victory demonstrated the effectiveness of indigenous Filipino martial arts and delayed Spanish colonization by over 40 years until Miguel López de Legazpi's successful expedition in 1565.

Spanish Colonial Era: Survival Through Adaptation

The Spanish colonial period (1521-1898) marked a crucial phase in the evolution of Filipino martial arts, characterized by prohibition, adaptation, and secret preservation.

Prohibition and Underground Practice

In 1764, Spanish authorities banned the practice of traditional Filipino martial arts, fearing their use in potential rebellions. Lieutenant-Governor Don Simon de Anda y Salazar specifically prohibited carrying daggers and bolos, forcing practitioners to adapt their training methods.

Rather than disappearing, the arts survived through ingenious concealment within cultural activities. Practitioners incorporated techniques into Moro-Moro theatrical performances, traditional dances, and religious festivals. These performances depicted mock battles between Christians and Muslims, providing perfect cover for weapons training.

Transformation and Innovation

The weapon prohibition led to significant innovations in training methodology. Practitioners began using rattan sticks instead of bladed weapons, developing new techniques that took advantage of the stick's properties. This adaptation created possibilities for force-to-force blocking and weapon disarming that were impossible with sharp blades.

Spanish fencing terminology was incorporated into Filipino martial arts vocabulary, creating hybrid systems that blended European and indigenous techniques. This cultural fusion demonstrates the adaptive nature of Filipino martial arts and their practitioners' ability to evolve while maintaining core principles.

The Modern Renaissance: 20th Century to Present

The American colonial period (1898-1946) marked the beginning of Filipino martial arts' transformation from underground practice to recognized martial discipline.

Early 20th Century Development

The Cañete family of Cebu emerged as pivotal figures in the modernization and systematization of Filipino martial arts. In 1918, brothers Eulogio and Cacoy Cañete moved to Cebu City to study under the Saavedra family, establishing the foundation for organized training.

On January 11, 1932, a group of master practitioners founded Doce Pares in Cebu City, named after the legendary twelve bodyguards of Emperor Charlemagne. Eulogio Cañete became the first president, serving until his death in 1988.

Global Expansion and Recognition

The post-World War II era saw Filipino martial arts spread internationally through Filipino immigrants, particularly to Hawaii and California. American soldiers who served in the Philippines during the war also contributed to the art's global dissemination.

Remy Presas (1936-2001) played a crucial role in international popularization through his development of Modern Arnis. Born in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, Presas began training at age six under his father and grandfather. He revolutionized training methodology by emphasizing safety, making the art accessible to broader audiences while preserving its effectiveness.

In 1974, Presas moved to the United States, conducting seminars and camps that introduced Filipino martial arts to American martial artists. His Modern Arnis system emphasized injury-free training methods while maintaining combat effectiveness, helping preserve older systems that were in danger of extinction.

Core Principles and Technical Framework

Filipino martial arts operate on unique principles that distinguish them from other martial systems, emphasizing practicality, adaptability, and the seamless integration of weapons and empty-hand techniques.

Weapons-First Philosophy

Unlike most martial arts that begin with empty-hand training, Filipino martial arts prioritize weapons training from day one. This approach is based on practical considerations: weapons provide advantages in real combat situations and prepare students psychologically to face armed opponents.

The stick serves as the primary training tool, typically measuring 26-28 inches in length and made from rattan. Students learn that any object can become a weapon using the same principles - from umbrellas to rolled magazines to kitchen utensils.

Range and Distance Management

Filipino martial arts recognize four primary fighting ranges:

• Largo Mano (Long Range): Utilizing long weapons like staffs and swords
• Medio (Medium Range): Stick and single weapon combat
• Corto (Close Range): Knife fighting and trapping
• Dumog (Ground Range): Grappling and ground fighting

The Twelve Angles of Attack

Most Filipino martial arts systems utilize variations of the twelve basic angles of attack, providing a systematic framework for understanding how attacks can be delivered and defended. These angles cover:

Angles 1-2: Diagonal strikes to the head and neck region
Angles 3-4: Horizontal strikes to the shoulders, arms, and mid-section
Angle 5: Direct thrust to the torso
Angles 6-7: Strikes to the chest and armpit areas
Angles 8-9: Attacks targeting the hips, knees, and legs
Angles 10-11: Lateral strikes to the neck and eye level
Angle 12: Vertical downward strike

This systematic approach allows practitioners to respond to any attack based on its angle rather than memorizing separate techniques for each weapon or method of attack.

Major Styles and Systems

The diversity of Filipino martial arts reflects the archipelago's varied tribal cultures, with hundreds of distinct styles developed across different regions.

Doce Pares

Founded in 1932 by the Cañete family and associates, Doce Pares represents one of the most comprehensive and influential systems. The style encompasses twelve different fighting methods, covering all ranges of combat and emphasizing the use of double weapons.

Key characteristics include:

• Multi-weapon proficiency (sticks, knives, swords, empty hands)
• Emphasis on flowing combinations
• Integration of various regional styles
• Systematic ranking and curriculum structure

Balintawak Eskrima

Developed by Venancio "Anciong" Bacon after leaving Doce Pares, Balintawak focuses on close-range combat and single-stick fighting. The system emphasizes live-hand techniques, trapping, and aggressive counter-attacking.

Distinctive features:

• Single stick specialization
• Close-quarter combat emphasis
• Live-hand utilization for control and striking
• Aggressive counter-attack philosophy

Pekiti-Tirsia Kali

Pekiti-Tirsia Kali, founded in 1897 by the Tortal family, represents a blade-focused combat system designed for warfare rather than sport. Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje Jr. currently heads this family system.

Core principles include:

• Blade-centric training methodology
• Circular movement patterns
• Military and law enforcement adoption
• Close-quarters combat specialization
• Triangle footwork and positioning

Modern Arnis

Created by Remy Presas, Modern Arnis synthesizes various traditional systems with modern training methods. The system emphasizes safety in training while maintaining combat effectiveness.

Key innovations:

• Injury-free training methodology
• Systematic curriculum development
• Integration of empty-hand and weapons training
• International standardization
• Flow drills and continuous movement

Training Methods and Drills

Filipino martial arts employ unique training methodologies that develop specific attributes essential for combat effectiveness.

Sinawali (Weaving Drills)

Sinawali drills use double sticks in weaving patterns that develop coordination, timing, and ambidexterity. The name derives from sawali, referring to the crisscross bamboo weaving pattern used in traditional Filipino construction.

Common sinawali patterns include:

• Heaven Six: High-level striking patterns
• Earth: Low-level attacks
• Heaven-Earth: Combination of high and low strikes
• Reverse Sinawali: Counter-clockwise patterns

Hubud-Lubud (Tying and Untying)

Hubud-Lubud drills develop sensitivity, trapping skills, and close-range combat ability. Practitioners "tie up" and "untie" their opponent's hands while seeking opportunities for counter-attacks.

Benefits include:

• Enhanced tactile sensitivity
• Improved reaction time
• Development of trapping skills
• Close-range combat preparation

Solo and Partner Drills

Training incorporates both individual practice and partner exercises:

Solo Training:

• Form practice with weapons and empty hands
• Shadow boxing applications
• Conditioning exercises
• Flexibility and mobility development

Partner Training:

• Controlled sparring (feed drills)
• Flow exercises
• Resistance training
• Free-form practice

Empty-Hand Applications (Panantukan)

While weapons training forms the foundation, Filipino martial arts include sophisticated empty-hand systems collectively known as Pangamut, with Panantukan (Filipino boxing) as a primary component.

Panantukan Characteristics

Panantukan heavily incorporates knife-fighting principles into empty-hand combat, creating a unique striking system:

• Weapon-influenced techniques: Hand movements mirror knife patterns
• Targeting: Emphasis on vital points and nerve centers
• Low-line kicking: Kicks primarily below the waist to avoid weapon counters
• Dirty boxing: Integration of elbows, headbutts, and unorthodox strikes
• Trapping: Hand trapping and control techniques

Dumog (Filipino Grappling)

Dumog encompasses the grappling aspects of Filipino martial arts, including:

• Standing grappling and takedowns
• Joint locks and manipulation
• Balance disruption techniques
• Ground control methods

Global Impact and Modern Applications

Filipino martial arts have achieved remarkable international recognition, influencing military training, law enforcement protocols, and popular culture.

Military and Law Enforcement Adoption

Elite military and law enforcement units worldwide have adopted Filipino martial arts for close-quarters combat training. The practical, weapon-based focus aligns perfectly with modern tactical requirements.

Organizations using FMA training include:

• U.S. Navy SEALs
• Army Special Forces
• Various international special operations units
• Police tactical teams
• Private security organizations

The Living Art: Preservation and Evolution

Modern Filipino martial arts continue evolving while maintaining their traditional roots through dedicated practitioners and organizations worldwide.

Preservation Efforts

Several initiatives work to preserve and document traditional Filipino martial arts:

• UNESCO Cultural Heritage nominations for various martial arts systems
• Documentary projects like "The Bladed Hand" and "Eskrimadors"
• Academic research and historical documentation
• Master practitioner interviews and video archives

Modern Innovations

Contemporary developments include:

• Mixed Martial Arts integration: FMA techniques in professional MMA
• Sport competition formats: Standardized rules for tournaments
• Online training platforms: Digital instruction and community building
• Weapons training evolution: Modern tactical applications

Current Challenges and Opportunities

The art faces both challenges and opportunities in the modern era:

Challenges:

• Maintaining authenticity while adapting to modern contexts
• Preserving traditional knowledge as elder masters pass away
• Balancing commercialization with cultural integrity
• Addressing style fragmentation and politics

Opportunities:

• Growing international interest in practical martial arts
• Military and law enforcement demand for effective training
• Integration with modern fitness and self-defense programs
• Cultural tourism and heritage preservation initiatives

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy

Eskrima, Arnis, and Kali represent more than mere fighting systems—they embody the Filipino spirit of resilience, adaptability, and practical wisdom. From ancient tribal warfare through Spanish colonization to modern global recognition, these arts have demonstrated remarkable survival and evolution capabilities.

The weapons-first philosophy, range flexibility, and practical application focus make Filipino martial arts uniquely relevant for modern self-defense and combat situations. Whether practiced for cultural preservation, physical fitness, practical self-defense, or professional application, these arts offer valuable lessons in adaptation, creativity, and effectiveness.

As Filipino martial arts continue spreading globally, they carry with them the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines while adapting to serve modern practitioners' needs. The art's emphasis on flow, adaptability, and practical application ensures its continued relevance in an ever-changing world, maintaining the warrior spirit that has defined Filipino martial culture for centuries.

The legacy of warriors like Lapu-Lapu, innovators like Remy Presas, and preservationists like the Cañete family lives on through every practitioner who picks up a stick, practices the angles, and continues the tradition of Filipino martial arts. In doing so, they honor not just a fighting system, but a cultural treasure that represents the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people.