Kuntaw: Exploring the Ancient Filipino Martial Art of the Maharlika Warriors

Kuntaw is an ancient Filipino martial art that represents one of the oldest and most sophisticated fighting systems in the Philippines. This comprehensive fighting art combines hard and soft techniques, integrating both armed and unarmed combat methods that have been preserved and refined over centuries.

The art is characterized by its open-hand striking techniques, foot sweeps, joint locks, and weapons training, making it a complete self-defense system. Kuntaw emphasizes practical application over flashy movements, focusing on efficiency and effectiveness in real combat situations.

Origins and Etymology

The name "Kuntaw" has two primary etymological theories:

First Theory: Kuntaw derives from two Filipino words - "kunsagrado" meaning "sacred" and "hataw" meaning "strike," thus translating to "sacred strike." This version emphasizes the art's spiritual and noble origins among Filipino Muslim royalty known as the Maharlika.

Second Theory: The name evolved from "Kuntao," a Chinese martial arts term meaning "way of the fist" (拳道). The "o" was changed to "w" to better conform to local Filipino dialects. This theory connects Kuntaw to Chinese martial arts brought to Southeast Asia by traders and immigrants.

Historical Development

Ancient Roots

Kuntaw's history traces back to the mid-1300s, predating Spanish colonization of the Philippines. The art was originally developed and practiced by Filipino Muslim royalty (Maharlika) in the southern Philippines, particularly in Mindanao.

The martial art emerged from a synthesis of fighting techniques brought by various cultures that settled in the Philippines through migration, trade, and conquest. These influences included:

• Indian martial arts - Contributing weaponry and sword fighting techniques
• Indonesian Pentjak Silat - Providing snake-like grappling and flowing movements
• Chinese martial arts - Introducing powerful kicks and striking techniques

Colonial Period and Preservation

During Spanish colonization (1565-1898), the practice of martial arts was heavily restricted and often banned. Filipino martial artists adapted by:

• Disguising training as cultural dances and theatrical performances
• Conducting secret training sessions at night
• Incorporating stick fighting to replace banned sword techniques
• Developing the Moro-Moro plays that concealed martial arts training as entertainment

Modern Systematization

The modern form of Kuntaw was systematized by Great Grandmaster Carlito A. Lanada Sr. (born 1939), who learned the art from his grandfather Yuyong Huenyo Lanada and father Yon Iban Lanada of the Tausug tribe in Mindanao.

Technical Foundations

Combat Ranges

Kuntaw addresses three distinct fighting ranges:

1. Largo (Long Range) - Distance fighting with weapons and long-range strikes
2. Sumbrada/Medio (Medium Range) - Mid-distance engagement with combination techniques
3. Hubud (Close Range) - Close-quarters combat with trapping, grappling, and locks

Fighting Altitudes

The system operates at three combat altitudes:

• Air - Aerial techniques and high-level attacks
• Standing - Traditional upright combat position
• Ground - Ground fighting and floor techniques

Core Components

Filipino Arts Integration:

• Buno - Filipino wrestling techniques
• Sikaran - Kicking and foot techniques
• Bugtongan - Philippine stick fighting system

Technical Elements:

• Open-hand striking with emphasis on vital points
• Foot sweeps as a signature technique
• Joint locks and submissions (Dumog)
• Weapons training with various traditional arms
• Cat-like movements with flowing transitions

Training Structure

Ranking System

Modern Kuntaw follows a belt ranking system:

• White Belt - Entry level
• Yellow Belt - Basic techniques
• Green Belt - Intermediate level
• Blue Belt - Advanced basics
• Brown Belt - Pre-black belt preparation
• Black Belt - Instructor level (1st through 10th degree)

Forms and Curriculum

The systematized Kuntaw curriculum includes:

• 43 distinctive forms (kata)
• 86 basic techniques
• 25 fundamental moves (5 strikes, 5 thrusts, 5 blocks, 5 disarms, 5 locks)
• Arnis stick techniques as the primary weapon

Training Methods

Traditional Training Principles:

• "The Given" - Training partners concede technique effectiveness
• Progressive skill building through repetitive practice
• Partner-based drilling for practical application
• Emphasis on timing and precision over brute force

Weapons Training

Kuntaw incorporates extensive weapons training as part of its complete martial system:

Primary Weapons

• Arnis sticks - Single and double stick techniques
• Bladed weapons - Knives, swords, and traditional Filipino blades
• Improvised weapons - Everyday objects adapted for self-defense

Weapon Categories

• Short-range weapons - Knives and palm sticks
• Medium-range weapons - Swords and machetes
• Long-range weapons - Spears and long sticks

Modern Practice and Organizations

International Spread

The International Kuntaw Federation (IKF) has established schools in over 15 countries worldwide, including:

• United States - Multiple state organizations
• Canada - Regional training centers
• Australia - Affiliated schools
• United Kingdom - European representation
• Saudi Arabia - Middle Eastern presence
• Philippines - Original homeland schools

Tournament Competition

Kuntaw practitioners participate in organized tournaments featuring:

• Forms competition - Traditional kata performance
• Sparring divisions - Controlled combat application
• Weapons demonstrations - Skill exhibitions
• Team competitions - Group performances

The art has produced numerous champions in martial arts competitions, with practitioners achieving recognition in international karate and martial arts circuits20.

Philosophy and Applications

Defensive Mindset

Kuntaw emphasizes a defensive philosophy focused on:

• Self-preservation over aggression
• Practical street defense applications
• Character development through martial training
• Respect for the art's heritage and traditions

Modern Relevance

Contemporary Kuntaw training addresses:

• Personal protection in urban environments
• Physical fitness and coordination development
• Cultural preservation of Filipino heritage
• Leadership development through martial discipline

Cultural Significance

Filipino Identity

Kuntaw represents an important aspect of Filipino cultural identity:

• Pre-colonial heritage predating foreign influence
• Indigenous warrior traditions of the Maharlika class
• Adaptation and survival through historical challenges
• Modern cultural expression of ancient wisdom

Educational Value

The art serves as a living history lesson, teaching:

• Traditional Filipino values of respect and discipline
• Historical awareness of pre-colonial Philippines
• Cultural pride in indigenous martial heritage
• Practical life skills through martial training

Current Status and Future

Preservation Efforts

Modern Kuntaw faces the challenge of preservation in a rapidly changing world. Organizations work to:

• Document traditional techniques before they are lost
• Train qualified instructors to maintain standards
• Promote cultural awareness of Filipino martial heritage
• Adapt training methods for contemporary students

Global Recognition

Kuntaw continues to gain international recognition as:

• A legitimate martial art with proven effectiveness
• An important cultural export from the Philippines
• A complete fighting system suitable for modern self-defense
• A bridge between cultures through martial arts exchange

The art's emphasis on practical application, combined with its rich cultural heritage, ensures its continued relevance in the modern martial arts landscape, serving both as an effective self-defense system and a meaningful connection to Filipino cultural identity.