Informative Issue No. 223 2016

2016

Davao City, Mindanao Cebu City, Visayas Bacolod, Negros Occidental Legaspi, Bicol Region Trece Martires City, Cavite Manila and Metropolitan Manila

Each issue features practitioners of martial arts and other internal arts, other features include historical, theo-retical and technical articles; reflections, Filipino martial arts, healing arts, the culture of the Philippines and other related subjects. The authors, publisher and owner of this online magazine are not responsible for any injury, which may result from the instructions contained in this online magazine. Before embarking on any of the physical activates described in the magazine, the reader should consult his or her physician for advice regarding their individual suitability for per-forming such activity. The ideas and opinions expressed in the FMA Informative online magazine are those of the authors or instruc-tors being interviewed and are not necessarily the views of the publisher, editor or owner of the FMA Informative. The articles are the property of the author’s that wrote them and cannot be used without the permission of the author. The FMA Informative is for the promulgation and promotion of the Filipino martial arts and the Culture of the Philippines. NO issue can be printed and Sold for Monies, without the express permission of the Owner and Publisher of the FMA Informative.

ler the FMA Informative was able to meet and talk with Master Bobot Gayoles a really impressive practitioner, and also had the chance to meet an original student of Grandmaster Jose L. Viñas and a short visit with James U. Sy Jr. In Legaspi met up with Mr. Brian Smith an old friend, and so discussed a lot of the past, present and his plan’s for the future and of course the FMA Informative representatives friend Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog. Riding by bus at night stopped over in Trece Martires City, Cavite to visit with the new inheritor of Kun-taw, have not seen Carlito ‘Junn’ Lanada Jr. for about 30 years. On to Manila, which over all was disappointing for some reason, explained later, but must thank all the practitioners and friends that were able to get with the FMA Informative representative for an interview or just a meal and talk. There were few that made appointments to be interviewed and did not show up, and did not even call, text, message or anything to cancel and let the FMA Informative representative know they were not coming, very unprofessional and a waste of time. Now as everyone should know, since it is put out before the FMA Informative representative even leaves to visit the Philippines that the representative does not pay per say (money) for an interview, because the FMA Informative newspaper and issues are free and are to promote and promulgate the interviewed practitioner, or cultural event etc. but are compensate by other means, such as publication, getting together for a meal etc. Well as told to the FMA Informative representative, (money - money - money), want to interview pay money, and these are some practitioners that the FMAdigest and FMA Informative have interviewed before and some are not, but have become important in their own minds, for they have been in videos and such and are just too important or they think so. Understandable, but if you make no money on the publication, you cannot pay money, that is why the FMA Informative compensates in other ways as said before. Now of course practitioners in the Philippines (most) make a living by teaching, very understandable in-deed. Prices as told range from 2000 pesos (approximately $45) per lesson and sometimes little more up or less to (heard about a couple) 13,800 pesos (approximately $3000) for 10 days, this does not include room-n-board and meals, just lessons. Now to pay these prices is up to the person of course wanting to learn, but it is found that there are a few (being nice) that came about their credentials not by really training, or that have just learned a few things and said they are this or that and promote themselves as something of knowledge. However there are some reputable, professional practitioners, totally worth the money and time to invest in and gain the skill and knowledge from. Choose wisely. It was asked since the FMA Informative representative was in the Philippines and in the area way he did not cover the 8th FMA Festival, Baxafra Armor Kali/Arnis Invitational Tournament or the Arnis Pasindo 15th Invitational Arnis Tournament. Easy was not invited, and no one has sent anything about the events so the FMA Informative can make an issue to let people know what went on. So that is that. Also learned that it is ok for foreigners to come spend their money or give it to Filipino practitioners, however once learning the art and getting promoted to teach, DO NOT teach in the Philippines for that is for Filipino practitioners only and you are taking money from them, even if the foreigner is teaching for free. Go home, back to your country and teach. And a final bulls*#t saying told to the FMA Informative representative that was said last year also, is that only a Filipino can teach true Filipino martial arts, so even if the foreigner has learned the art and the head of the style or system says they are fully qualified, apparently in some minds, they are not. Do not really under-stand since at the big events such as the FMA Festival, Hall of Fame’s, and teaching law enforcement and the military they have foreigners teach Filipino martial arts and not just the Filipino practitioners teaching (excep-tion to the rule when making money I guess). Well that is enough there is more, but what the hell the soap box had crumbled. So when and if the FMA Informative visits the Philippines again less time will be spent or wasted in Manila, for apparently a lot of prac-titioners are already famous and everyone knows about them.Shaking head – Pinapatawa nila ako (They make me laugh)

Well it was off to the Philippines for the FMA Informative representative for a visit, and it was a real learning experience that is for sure. Leaving Los Angeles, CA. on March 1 and arriving in Manila, Philippines March 3rd, (always hate losing a day and never getting it back, not even when returning home). Anyway, changing planes in Manila for Davao, Mindanao, and finally getting settled in the hotel, it was out and about. Davao is really nice, Rodrigo Duterte the city’s Mayor and now running for Philippine President has done a great job in Davao towards crime etc. It was very nice and met some great impressive practitioners, LSAI is certainly thriving there. Next was Cebu, did not think it would be to prosperous for the FMA Informative, however of course Grandmaster Chuck Canete met with the FMA Informative representative, which was kind of unexpected since his grandfather Supreme Grandmaster Cacoy Canete had just passed away, and a big thanks goes out to Mr. Ce-lestino Macachor and Mr. Mike Casto for their assistance in arranging a couple interviews, also seeing Carolina Concepcion the wife of Grandmaster Warlito “Lito” Concepcion who unfortunately passed away in 2015, was great. Moving onto Bacolod was nice, unfortunate that a few of the FMA Informative prior interviewed practi-tioners could not meet up with the representative, but with the help of Mr. Wilson Viñas and Mr. Russell Mack-

Mar Angeles FMA Informative

March 1, 2016 a FMA Informative representative left Los Angeles, CA. to visit the Philippines. The flight was a non-stop from Los Angeles to Manila, however, the flight took off a little late and had to make a fueling stop in Guam due to weather conditions. Once arriving in Manila, Philippines the representative was to transfer to another flight to Davao, however missing the connection flight, was given a free meal and shortly placed on another flight to Davao. Arriving in Davao and heading to the Hotel Uno on CM Recto St., Davao City.

Davao City, Mindanao, Philippines

Hotel Uno www.hotelunodavao.com Nestled in the Heart of Davao City, Hotel Uno provides utmost comfort and excellent ser-vice ideal for businessmen, travelers, families and friends. Wake up to the sight of the majestic Mount Apo or the Davao Gulf and feel the symphony of cultures that is Davao!Free Internet Access (Lobby and Rooms) Massage Services Safety Deposit Box Elevator 24-hour Security and Fire-alarm System

Uno Resto and Cafe (Open Daily 6:00am to 10:00pm) Function and Meeting Rooms Spacious Parking Area

Hotel receptionists and porters

Uno Resto and Cafe staff

March 3, 2016 Once settling in at the hotel was met shortly after arrival at the Hotel Uno by Reynaldo “Ryan” Cordero Jr. who is an senior teacher for LSAI under Master Teacher Manolo Luis Del Rosario and also is the Head Instructor for the ITF (International Taekwon-do Federation) Taekwon-Do Davao Region. That evening the FMA Informative representative was invited and gladly accepted to visit one of the schools near the hotel and observe the LSAI class with Master Teacher Manolo Luis Del Rosario with some of his senior assistant teachers and students. It was really an experience that showed the professionalism, dedication and true expertise of Master Teacher Manolo Luis Del Rosario his Assistant Teachers and his students. Reynaldo “Ryan” Cordero Jr.

Senior Teachers (left - right) Justin Ching, Reynaldo “Ryan” Cordero Jr., Don Casiano and Dennis Gutierrez

March 4, 2016 In the morning Antonio Dela Cruz Jr., known as Guro Dodong from Lupon, Davao Oriental met up with the FMA Informative representative. Guro Dodong is part of Dr. Remy Presas Jr. MARRPIO and is under Master Jose Isidro of Isidro Modern Arnis. A very energetic practitioner that has the drive and fortitude of a dedicated professional Filipino martial arts practitioner, just in speaking with Guro Dodong is an experience that one will not forget. I was a great pleasure in meeting and talking with him. Also Guro Hernan B. Agpawa was supposed to be present, however due to a medical situation he was not able to come for an interview.

Guro Dodong treated the FMA Informative and his wife to lunch at Coco’s South Bistro Buffet Palace at McArthur Highway cor. Tulip Dr. Mati-na, Davao City. The food was good with various dishes to choose from, and of course the company and stories told by Guro Dodong added to the good time. Then Guro Dodong gave the FMA Informative rep-resentative and his wife a little tour of Davao City.

Davao City, Mindanao, Philippines Davao City, on the southern Philippine island of Mindanao, is a coastal com-mercial center near 2,954m-high Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak. In the city center, People’s Park is known for its colorful indigenous sculptures and lighted fountains. It’s also home to the Durian Dome, named after the spiky, smelly fruit that grows in abundance on Mindanao. The Davao River cuts through the city. Davao City is constantly described by its residents and the national media as arguably among one of the safe cities in the Philippines; however this has been met with criticisms especially by the people from Metro Manila.

Late in the afternoon the FMA Informative representative met with In-structor Reynaldo “Ryan” Cordero Jr. who besides training and being an Assistant Teacher for LSAI under Master Teacher Manolo Luis Del Rosario, also is the head instructor for the ITF (International Taekwon-do Federation) Taekwon-Do Davao Region. The FMA Informative representative was able to meet with his young prac-titioner’s class. What a great group of young practitioners. If they continue on their path in the future they will excel in Taekwon-Do.

March 5, 2016 With his busy schedule Master Teacher Manolo Luis Del Rosario had time before the FMA Informative representative was to leave Davao for an interview. He had a lot of aspects to tell on LSAI / Leska in Davao which were very interesting. If you are ever in Davao suggest looking him up and do some training with him and his guys. Expect a great workout and some hard hitting weaponry. After the interview pizza was brought out and with a couple of his Assistant Teachers and his wife a relaxed enjoyable time was had. Then it was off to downtown Davao for another training session, unfortunate there was a a power outage (brown out), so practice started way late and was short.

Well tomorrow morning off to Cebu.

Cebu City, Visayas, PhilippinesCebu City, Visayas, PhilippinesCebu City, officially the City of Cebu (Cebuano: Dakbayan sa Sugbo, Filipino: Lungsod ng Cebu), is the capital city of the province of Cebu and is the “second city” of the Philippines, being the center of Metro Cebu, the second most populous metropolitan area in the Philippines after Metro Manila. Cebu is a significant center of commerce, trade and education in the Visayas region. The city is located on the mid-eastern side of Cebu island. It is the first Spanish settlement and the oldest city and the first capital of the Philippines. It is considered as the Fount of Christianity in the Far-East. Cebu is the Philippines’ main domestic shipping port and is home to about 80% of the country’s domestic shipping companies. Cebu City is bordered to the northeast by Mandaue and the town of Consolacion, to the west are Toledo City, and the towns of Balamban and Asturias, to the south are Talisay City and the town of Minglanilla. Across Mactan Strait to the east is Mactan Island. It is the center of a metropolitan area called Metro Cebu, which includes the cities of Carcar, Danao, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Naga and Talisay; and the municipalities of Compostela, Consolacion, Cordova, Liloan, Minglanilla and San Fernando.

Arriving in Cebu went to the Cebu Guesthouse on 211 Mango Ave., Cebu City, Cebu, nice place they have three types of rooms.1. Private with a community bath- room. 2. Private with a shared bathroom with another room. 3. Finally private with your own bathroom. It seems many Europeans, Asians and Americans stay at the Cebu Guesthouse passing through to contin-ue on the Bohol and other parts of the surrounding area, does not seem that many stay for an extended time. The hotel is clean, and the staff is very pleasant and friendly, helping out whenever they can. The hotel is renovating at the time of this visit so the motorcycle rentals went to another location, and the small restaurant has been closed until renovations are complete. The guests are welcome to use the restau-rants kitchen to cook or heat up their own food until the restaurant is re-established, and is free for usage, equipped with a double burner, fridge and microwave. And you can dine al-fresco style. You will have every-thing you need to cook.

Cebu Guesthouse is ideal for wise and budget conscious trav-elers and backpackers. Escape to your ‘home in the heart of Cebu City,’ where your comfort and relaxation is our main objective. Their hostel offers a very homey ambiance that will make you feel so at home, styled in an ancestral Spanish architecture. From large rooms that can fit a small family to dormitory type rooms being given at a very affordable rate that is budget effective. There is plenty of in-door and outdoor space for relaxing, or simply mingling with fellow guests, backpackers, and wise travelers, thus making new friends. Get in touch with your loved ones by using our Wifi with 24-hours Customer Service and Security within your beck and call. Cebu Guesthouse backpackers hostel cheap accommodation is perfectly situated in the heart of the city, along the hotspots of the fa-mous Mango Avenue (presently called Gen. Maxilom Avenue) which is within walking distance of the city’s Capitol Circle, and some of

the well-known establishments like Ayala Center, Robinson’s Place, Mango Square which boasts the province’s night life - cafes, bars and restaurants that line up the avenue. The guesthouse is a great starting point for your island adventure since it’s in the center of all the best island escapades in the southern Philippines. They are only minutes from the pier that goes to the enchanting Bohol that boasts the world’s smallest primate- the Tarsiers; Loboc River where you can dine afloat, ancient churches and the famous Chocolate Hills. They also will assist their guests in their adventures to the best resorts of the province; the diving haven of Malapascua Island or Christmas Island, white sandy beaches of Daan Bantayan and Moal-boal, getting across to the nearby provinces of Dumaguete, Siquijor and the natural majesty of Palawan, and the world class atmosphere of Boracay Island. Come and book with us now! Cebu Guesthouse: your home in the heart of Cebu City, Philippines.

www.cebuguesthouse.com

March 6, 2016After arriving in Cebu in the afternoon met up with Grandmaster Danilo “Dan-ny” Casio of Red (Reputable Eskrima Defender), Balintawak Eskrima and some of his students. Grandmaster Casio is the real deal, in that he is very professional about the art of Balintawak. He trains in the traditional way, and has some very good processes which he puts his students through for adaptability, and skills in situations of encounters. He and his group have a good sense of humor which

the FMA Informative representative and his wife Vicky. Good time was had by all.March 8, 2016 Visited with Grandmaster Chuck Canete of Cacoy Dice Pares. Had a really good discussion about tournament competition, the training and preparation. Still humble and respectfully, a very confident practitioner in his knowledge and skills which are improving each time the FMA Infor-mative representative meets him.

makes it a pleasure to meet and talk with them. Af-ter the interview it was off to a student’s house for some spaghetti, so it was just one good thing after another.Note: FMA Informative would like to thank Celesti-no Macachor for enabling the FMA Informative to get together with Grandmaster Casio

March 7, 2016 Today met with Maximo C. Caballes “Grandmaster Max” of Arnis de Caballes Style with Balintawak. At first Grandmaster Max was Strict in attitude, do not really blame him for he did not know the FMA Informative representative or what to expect, but quickly after a few words of discus-sion Grandmaster Max was friendly, and just a great individual. Grandmas-ter Max is the kind of practitioner that knows his mind and heart and will gladly share it. Respected, knowledgeable and professional Grandmaster Max will most definitely standout in a crowd. Note: Today was Grandmaster Max Birthday and also the anniversary of his school. So of course we had to go and celebrate with lunch, (FMA In-formative treat). A man after the FMA Informative Representatives own

heart, (Burritos). What a guy. Also the FMA Informative will be attending this evening

a Birthday get together with others for Grandmaster Max special day at the Royal Concourse at Gororod Ave. Lahug, Cebu City. A buffet with many courses to choose from and the food was very delicious. With family and friends Grandmaster Max had a good turnout and it was a great time.Note: The FMA Informative would like to thank Mike Casto of AGPS for suggesting Grandmaster Max for an

interview while in Cebu.March 7, 2016 (evening) Grandmaster Max of Arnis de Caballes Birthday get together, with family and friends at the Royal Con-course. Excellent buffet, when the group started to sing happy Birth-day, by the end the whole place was clapping and singing. Grandmaster Max with family and also Grand-master Max with his wife and with

Also that evening from the Cacoy Doce Pares Headquarters the FMA Informative representative and his wife visited the home of Carolina Concepcion the wife of Grandmaster Warlito “Lito” Concepcion who unfortu-nately passed away in 2015. Talking of good times of the past and enjoying dinner it was a great time. Carolina is doing well and the house that Lito and Carolina built is beautiful, many student of Grandmaster Lito still visit from time to time.OK off to Bacolod tomorrow

Bacolod, Negros Occidental, PhilippinesBacolod, Negros Occidental, Philippines Bacólod (English: Bacolod), is derived from bakólod (Old Spelling: bacólod), the Old Hiligaynon or Old Ilonggo (Old Spelling: Ylongo and Ilongo) word for a “hill, mound, rise, hillock, down, any small eminence or eleva-tion”, since the resettlement was founded on a stony, hilly area, now the barangay of Granada. It was officially called Ciudad de Bacólod (City of Bacolod) when Municipalidad de Bacólod (Municipality of Bacolod) was converted into a city in 1938. Bacolod, officially the City of Bacolod is a highly urbanized city in the Philippines. It is the capital of the province of Negros Occidental where it is geographically situated but governed administratively independent from it. It is the most populous city in the Negros Island Region and the second most populous city in the Visayas after Cebu City. It is part of the Bacolod Metropolitan Area, which also includes the cities of Silay and Talisay. It is notable for its MassKara Festival held during the third week of October. Known for being a relatively friendly city, it bears the nick-name “City of Smiles”. The city has also been declared by the Department of Science and Technology as a “center of excellence” for information technology and business process management operations.

Luxur Place Magsaysay Avenue. Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines A sprawling property of 17,000 sq.m. 20 km from the new Bacolod-Silay Airport. Walking distance to the bustling nightlife of the Goldenfield Commercial Complex. Bacolod is one(1) hour by plane from Manila, and is served by 3 airlines flying to Manila and Cebu. It is linked by sea routes to Manila, IloIlo, Cagayan de Oro and Davao.

Services and FacilitiesRestaurants and Lounge ◦ Tapas Café ◦ Golden of Fortune Chinese Restaurant Function Room ◦Tapas Room 30pax (banquet set-up) ◦ Cabana 70pax (banquet set-up)Swimming Pool Business Center and Wireless Internet Connec-tion ◦ Computer Rental ◦ Access to travel agent

Other Services ◦24hr Room Service◦ Accepting all major credit cards ◦ Foreign Exchange ◦ Smoking / Non-smoking Rooms ◦ Laundry and Pressing Services ◦ Express Check In/Out

Reception: Sheryl, Johana, and Joanna

March 9, 2016 Arrived in Bacolod, and checked into the Luxur Place Hotel. Shortly after met up with Saber Master Bobot Gayoles which is an interpretation of “sable” and Oido de Caburata (flail) (original sable or saber Master as the system). A very respectable and courteous practitioner, a practitioner that is very interesting to talk to, and the FMA Informative representative is sure that the knowledge that will be put forth will be highly interesting, will be talking in-depth to Master Bobot

Gayoles tomorrow. Had dinner at the Golden of Fortune Chinese Restau-rant with Bobot, it was a real honor to meet Bobot.March 10, 2016 Today got to sit down and talk with Ferdinand Emmanuel “Bobot” a very interesting style with concepts which make the art standout and a one of a kind. also had his two coaches for the competition team - Wilson A. Alvarado and Ran-dy “Nonoy” Alvarado, brothers. The brothers in working together have brought about a competition team that is quite remarkable, and of course got to meet the competition team. Note: There are some recognized champions in the group that are remarkable to watch.

March 11, 2016 Met with Master Irving Piccio Elefante Jr. a original member of Lapu-Lapu Vinas Arnis Afficonados, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. Great talking with him learning about his experiences and knowledge that he gained from Jose ‘Joe’ Lamayo Vinas. Basically talked about the empty hand aspects and disarming. Very KnowledgeableMarch 11, 2016 - evening James U. Sy Jr. of Conceptual Arnis System was a little late in visit-ing due to his busy schedule. But it was really great in seeing James once again. To bad he was a bit late for Bobot the FMA Informative representative and his wife, some friends that moved from Reno, Nevada and settled in Ba-colod and Bobot had a great dinner at the Golden of Fortune Chinese Restau-

rant. James, Bobot and the FMA Informative representa-tive, discussed may things and even demonstrated some movements with the baston on concepts and theories on different movements - fun time. The FMA Informative missed a few friends in visiting, but due to work or medical they were unavail-able, and they were Gaudencio JR Lingamen, Mandatus

Samuel A. Ibe, Maxwell J. Maun and Stephen Roy Sanchez Dedel. Well hopefully next time. Well off to Legaspi, hate this part of the trip for you have to go back to Manila change terminals and catch a flight to Legaspi. Left Bacolod at 6am and arrived in Legaspi around noon

Legaspi, Bicol Region, Philippines

Legazpi, Albay, Bicol Region, PhilippinesLegazpi was named after Miguel López de Legazpi, the Basque Spanish conquistador who officially annexed the Phil-ippine Islands to the Spanish Empire in 1565, and whose surname came from a town in Gipuzkoa, Spain. Legazpi, officially the City of Legazpi (Bikol: Ciudad nin Legazpi; Filipino: Lungsod ng Legazpi) and often referred to as Legazpi City, is a component city and the capital of the province of Albay in the Philippines. Legazpi City is the administrative center and largest city of the Bicol Region. It is a center of tourism and transportation in the Bicol Region. Mayon Volcano, one of the Philippines’ most popular icons and tourist destinations, is partly within the city’s borders. The city is composed of two districts: Legazpi Port and Albay district. Legazpi was recognized as the most business-friendly city in Southern Luzon in 2007 by the Philippine Cham-ber of Commerce and Industry. In 2013, Legazpi was ranked 11th among the most competitive cities in the country. In 2014, the city was ranked second among the top three livable cities in the Philippines in the Livable Cities Design Challenge organized by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

March 12, 2016 The FMA Informative representative shortly after arriving went to visit Grandmaster Roy Magdaraog of the Magdaraog Mar-tial Arts System. Lucky when the FMA Informative representative visited for Grandmaster Magdaraog was having class so got together with a couple of his senior instructors Ariel M. Dacillo and Jayson A. Gacosta and the students and watched for a while, class was look-ing good and in full progress. After class there were refreshments for all. Grandmaster Magdaraog has been a long time friend with the FMAdigest and the FMA Informative representative. Grandmaster Magdaraog is a trusted friend, respected by the martial arts commu-nity and a top professional in the martial arts.

March 14, 2016 Met with Grandmaster Brian ‘Buzz’ Smith of the AMKA at the Pacif-ic Mall in Legaspi for lunch, he brought along a couple of his students, Very good people. Brian is now living in Santo Domingo, Philippines. Have not physically talked with Brian since the early 80’s, had many things we talked about as what has happened over the years. Thought Brian has had a few bumps in the road since arriving in the Philippines he has adapt-ed and overcome all obstacles and there is nothing but a bright prosperous future ahead.

Grandmaster Brian Smithe with Samson Zenarosa, Jeffery Ranao, and Ricardo Abecino

March 14 and 16, 2016 Had a pinched nerve in my back got the family’s Hilot practitioner “Tinoy” and he did wonders. Just a bit weak from it but everything seems ok. Also on March 16th the FMA Informative representatives last day at his brother in laws residence had KFC and pizza for all, Grandmaster Smith visited and joined in. He had to leave a little early in the evening to be able to get transportation back to his home.March 17, 2016Rested most the day for at 6:30pm leaving for Trece Martires City, Cavite.

Trece Martires City, Cavite, PhilippinesTrece Martires City, Cavite, PhilippinesTrece Martires, officially City of Trece Martires (Tagalog: Lungsod ng Trece Martires) is a component city in the province of Cavite, Philippines. The city was the former provincial capital, and still serves as the seat of the provincial government of Cavite, where most of the provincial offices are located. The city was named after the Thirteen Mar-tyrs of Cavite, a group of prominent Caviteños who were convicted of rebellion and executed by the Spanish colonial government on September 12, 1896 in the old port city of Cavite during the Philippine Revolution. The City was once the Cavite Capital City before former president Ferdinand Marcos transferred it to Imus City.

March 18, 2016 Departed Legaspi at 6:30pm on the bus, arrived Alabang between 5am to 6am and then got an express to Trece Martires City. Visited with Grandmaster Carlito ‘Junn’ Lanada Jr. the inheritor of Kuntaw from his father Great Grandmaster Carlito a. Lanada Sr. It has been 30 years since we have seen each other. He was a small boy the last time the FMA Informative representative had seen him. With him was the President of Kuntaw ng Pilipinas Carlito C. Calixtro. FMA Informative rep-

resentative and his wife had breakfast and talked about the past reminisc-ing about some of the old players of Kuntaw and things that happened, the present, and the future of Kuntaw. The future will be in the hands of Grandmaster Junn and he has some plans to reunite and strengthen Kun-taw and to make it fully known and prosperous.

Carlito C. Calixtro, Carlito ‘Junn’ Lanada Jr. and the FMA Informative representative

Same day in the afternoon left for Manila and stayed at the FMA Informative representatives sister-in-laws home until March 20th. Arrived in Manila, took a day of rest from travel, tried to catch up putting together the FMA Informative newspaper Vol5 No3.

Manila and Metropolitan Manila, Philippines

Manila and Metropolitan Manila, PhilippinesManila (Listeni/məˈnɪl.ə/) is the capital city of the Philippines. It is the home to extensive commerce and seats the ex-ecutive and judicial branches of the Filipino government. It also contains vast amount of significant architectural and cultural landmarks in the country. Manila is one of the sixteen cities that makes up Metro Manila, the National Capital Region of the Philippines. In 2012, Globalization and World Cities Research Network listed Manila as a global city. Manila is on the eastern shore of Manila Bay. Manila has six representative districts for the lower house of the Philippine Congress. Furthermore, the city is composed of 16 districts, namely: Binondo, Ermita, Intramuros, Malate, Paco, Pandacan, Port Area, Quiapo, Sam-paloc, San Andres, San Miguel, San Nicolas, Santa Ana, Santa Cruz, Santa Mesa and Tondo. The Kingdom of Tondo once ruled in the vicinity of Manila before it briefly became a province of the Hin-du Majapahit Empire. During the Brunei invasion of the Philippines, Sultan Bolkiah of Brunei captured Seludong (a village in modern-day Manila) and renamed it Maynilà from the word “Maynilad”, a Tagalog term referring to the presence of the Nila shrub. Maynila was a vassal state of Brunei, established to overpower Tondo. Maynilà had been Hindu-Bhuddisht since sixth century CE and earlier, it had become partly Islamic and Hindu-animist by the 15th cen-tury CE, while still remaining Indianized component of Indosphere. In 1571 Spanish Conquistadors arrived from Mexico, across the Pacific and founded present-day Manila in what today is Intramuros. Spanish missionaries soon Christianized the city and incorporated Tondo under Manila and then built some of the oldest churches in the country, including San Agustin Church. The Conquistadors renamed the area Nuevo Reino de Castilla (New Kingdom of Castille) and shortened the name to Manila. Manila became the center of Spanish activity in the Far East and one end of the Manila-Acapulco Galleon trade route, linking Spanish America with Asia, one of the earliest examples of globalization. Due to the central loca-tion in the Pacific sea trade routes, Manila received the moniker of the “Pearl of the Orient”. Spanish rule of Manila and the entire Philippine archipelago lasted for three centuries, until 1898. At different periods during the Spanish period there were local revolts, Chinese insurrections, a short-lived British Occupation and a Sepoy mutiny. However, order was usually quickly restored and rule continued peacefully until the end of the 19th century. Before the Span-ish–American War, Manila saw the rise of the Philippine Revolution. Under the American rule following the Span-ish–American War, the United States changed the official language from Spanish to English and made some changes in education, local laws and urban planning. Towards the end of World War II, during the Battle of Manila most of the city was flattened by intensive aerial bombardment by the United States Air Force. As a result, relatively little remains of Manila’s prewar and colonial architecture, although there are ongoing restoration projects, especially within the old walled city, IntramurosMetropolitan Manila (Filipino: Kalakhang Maynila, Kamaynilaan), commonly known as Metro Manila, the National Capital Region (NCR) of the Philippines, is the seat of government and the most populous region of the country which is composed of Manila, the capital city of the country, Quezon City, the country’s most populous city, the Municipality of Pateros, and the cities of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, Pasig, San Juan, Taguig, and Valenzuela. The National Capital Region has a population which, makes it the most populous region in the Philippines, as well as the 7th most populous metropolitan area in Asia. Its total urban area, referring to its continuous urban expan-sion into the provinces of Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Rizal and Batangas which makes it the 3rd most populous urban area in the world. The region is the center of culture, economy, education, and government of the Philippines. NCR is one of the 12 defined metropolitan areas in the Philippines according to the National Economic and Development Authority.Designated as a global power city, NCR exerts a significant impact on commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, re-search, technology, education, and entertainment, both locally and internationally. It is the home to all the consulates and embassies in the Philippines, thereby making it an important center for international diplomacy in the country. The region was established in 1975 through Presidential Decree No. 824 in response to the needs to sustain the growing population and for the creation for the center of political power and the seat of the Government of the Philip-

pines. The Province of Manila, the progenitor to the present-day Metro Manila, is one of the eight original provinces that revolted against the Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. The province was honored as one of the sun rays in the Flag of the Philippines, with each of the eight sun rays symbolizing one of the eight revolutionary provinces.

March 20, 2016 Checked into the Stone House Bed and Breakfast, stayed in the same room that that the FMA Informa-tive representative has stayed in for the last since 2013.

Stonehouse Bed & Breakfast 1315 E. Rodriguez Ave. Brgy. Kristong Hari, Quezon City, Philippines Website: www.stonehouse.com.ph Face Book: Click Here What makes Stone House Hotel, Quezon City unique is our dedication to

bring you closer to home by giving you the basic comforts you need at affordable rates. We have different rooms to suit your style and budget. All of these air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a private toilet and bath; hot and cold shower, cable TV and telephone. Free wifi is available at the restaurant and Penthouse garden. Daily newspaper is also available if you want to keep abreast with the current news and latest happenings around the globe. Stone House Bed and Breakfast has two (2) event areas that can cater to any occasion: seminars, weddings, debuts, birthdays etc. The facilities and services of Stonehouse Hotel in Quezon City promise you convenience and satisfaction throughout your stay.

24-hour Security/ Restobar/ Entertainment/ Penthouse Garden/ Elevator/ Free Valet Parking/ Rooftop Garden

At the time of the FMA Informative representative stay at the Stone House Bed and Breakfast renovation was going on, a “face life” of fresh paint and repairs that enhance and make the Stone House Bed and Breakfast an even more enjoyable hotel to stay in. The staff throughout are courteous and very professional, with always a smile on their face and can I help you attitude. Also met with the Operations Manager of the Stonehouse Bed & Breakfast Ms. Carmela Sison and with Michelle de Guzman - Sales & Marketing Manager two very nice ladies, that make the spirit of the Stone House a great place to hang your hat.

Ms. Carmela Sison (center) with two of the receptionist that will check you

in and make your stay a rememberance never to be forgotten Michelle de GuzmanRestobar - bartender, cook and waitresses

March 20, 2016 The representatives’ brother from another mother Arvino Logarte owner of (PMA Supplies - (www.pma-supplies.com) dropped by late for a little chat and coffee.March 21, 2016 Rey Dominguez was to drop by for lunch and talk, never showed, knowing Rey a very busy man proba-bly got caught up into something. Too bad wasted a whole day waiting for him and he did not have the courtesy to call. Oh well each their own, so just worked on the FMA Informative newspaper so to have it ready to go out to the subscribers.March 22, 2016 Started late in the afternoon due to some mis-communication, Grandmaster Carlito ‘Junn’ Lanada Jr. of Kuntaw, with him was his son Ivan and Carlito C. Ca-lixtro, worked on some basic techniques of Kuntaw and then the Sampaguita form and some advanced forms. Had a great talk about the future of Kuntaw and how to build it. A lot of controversy in Kuntaw and some very stupid comments about the FMA Informative representa-tive who has trained in Kuntaw for over 40 years and is a senior practitioner teaching the Kuntaw inheritor a senior form.

Most do not understand that Grandmaster Carlito ‘Junn’ Lanada Jr. has not been able to train with his father since 1994 due to Great Grandmaster Carlito A. Lanada Sr. moving to the United States and residing there all these years. The FMA Informative representative does not and will not get involved with the politics or family disputes in Kuntaw and just trains and teaches the art. So helps those that wish it, if not then does not.

March 22, 2016 Arvino Logarte owner of PMA Supplies picked up the FMA Informative representative and his wife Vicky and went to dinner at B & T Mexican Kitchen. Not bad Mexican food.

First time at this place, will have to return and try again sometime.

March 23, 2016 SM Fairview Mall, Cabalen restaurant. Had lunch at the with two good friends, Grandmaster Bram Frank who I have not seen physically since 2005 and Grandmaster Frank Aycocho, many stories to tell, a lot of laughs and a great meal.Note: It was Grandmaster Aycocho belated Birthday get together. Just keeps getting younger.March 24, 2016 Put out the FMA Informative newspaper Vol5 No4 and started working on the FMA Informative newspaper Vol5 No5 and some FMA Informative issue to come out in the future. Really not much to do for Holy Week is going on.March 25, 2016

Well it is Good Friday really nothing going on, the hotel is cleaning everything, water tanks, painting the out-side etc. However Arvino Logarte showed up and it was off to find a place for dinner (note most places are closed since it is Good Friday), but it is his Birthday and got to cele-brate. Ended up at Racks restaurant a great place for ribs that just fall off the bone, family and friends showed up and it was a great Birthday celebration with some great conversation.

March 26, 2016 am Breakfast with Filipe ‘Bot’ Jocano at the Stone House Bed and Breakfast - Restobar restaurant always a great joy to see him, as every year the FMA Informative representative visits, it was of course a great time. Spent almost 3 hours just discussing the Filipino martial arts, friends, situations of different arts and styles and just talk in general, always a pleasure and honor to get with Bot swapping stories of the past and present, having breakfast and visiting.March 26, 2016 pm

Dinner time and the gang showed up at the House Bed and Breakfast - Restobar restau-rant there was Punong Lakan Garitony ‘Pet’ Nicolas, Professor Soteco, Master Bill John-son (from Australia , Dannie San Joaquin, and a few of Punong Lakan Nicolas student. Pancit Palabok, pizza, flavored bread, soda etc for the meal which was great, Professor Soteco brought the pancit palabok and bread.

Great company many stories of the past and present. Also a little talk of the future. Who could ask for more great food, great company, and a whole lot of laughs.March 27, 2016

Robert Trinidad of FMA Forum (fmaforum.org) dropped by for lunch. Always look forward to Robert dropping by, great conversations, and catching up on what has been going on with him. We do not talk about Filipino martial arts so much but just about anything else, a real refreshing change of pace. Great guy and every time the FMA Informative visits Manila, it is for sure we will get together for lunch.

March 27, 2016 Late in the afternoon left for the Sto. Cristo Elementary School, Bago Bantay, Quezon City for the grad-uation of the Professional Arnis Batch 15 - Kampilan class, which was from February 21 through March 27, 2016. Professor Soteco the Director of the Professional Arnis program, invited the FMA Informative represen-tative to attend. The FMA Informative representative has taught several times throughout the years at different Professional Arnis batches. It is a pleasure to see the teachers throughout Manila and outside Manila learning the basics of Arnis de mano to take back to their schools for programs. The staff that supports Professor Soteco are top notch teachers passing on knowledge to the student teachers so to make sure that excellent programs are taught to the teachers are passed on to students at schools from High Schools to Universities. Also it is always great to see Dr. Dagdag the President of the program.

March 29, 2016 Worked all day on the FMA Informa-tive newspaper and a couple issues, Arvin (my brother from another mother) came by and we went out to eat. Had a good simple dinner (Angus Tapa, and Bangus Belly) at Angus Tapa centrale, a quiet little restaurant off to the side of the street. Cooks are good and the servers are guys that like to be girls. But the food is simple, inexpensive and great.March 30, 2016 Surprise Ka Abner Anievas of KEAT out of Hong Kong, was in Manila for a couple days. The FMA Informative representative has talked with Ka Abner since the mid-90’s but has never met him. So this was very fortunate that both Ka Abner and the FMA Informative representative finally out of all these years were finally in the Philippines at the same time. The

FMA Informative taking a jeep and then the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) met Ka Abner at the Freemont Hotel in Makati. Ka Abner Anievas is a very profes-sional martial artist to the highest standards. Very open minded and always seeking knowledge. Both shared a little of each oth-er’s art and told some good stories, and as the hours passed finally had to call it a night for Ka Abner had a

busy schedule the next day.March 31, 2016 The FMA Informative rep-resentative and his wife had dinner with Ms Joy Lim who use to write the column “Discovering FMA” for the FMA Informative newspaper and her husband J-cip at their favorite restaurant the Baliwag. Some talks on various journalism styles, the Filipino martial arts world and just catching up on events since last year when the FMA Informative visited the Philippines.

April 1, 2016 Went to the MMDA at Orense St. Guadalupe, Makati City. Punong Lakan Garitony ‘Pet’ Nico-las put together a demonstration / training for the people at MMDA,

Met MMDA Chairman Emerson Carlos, and Attorney Crisanto C. Saruca R., Director IV, TDO, also there was Fredie Munsayac who did the column “The Goat Locker” for the FMA Informative newspaper for a while. He is now progressed working with the WSOF Global and pro-motes Underground Battle MMA, here in the Philippines and certain areas throughout Asia, talked with a few acquaintances from prior visits to the Philippines, and some practitioners that have become friends throughout the years. The Demonstrations were very good and primed towards law enforcement of course. A very good event which everyone enjoyed.

April 2, 2016 The FMA Informative representative with his wife and sister and brother-in-law met with Ms Peachie Baron Saguin of Kalis Ilustrisimo and a good friend at the Baliwag in Quezon City for lunch. Quite a long conversation about today’s Filipino martial arts, After the FMA Informative representative’s wife and in-laws went on their way Ms. Peachie and the FMA Informative representa-tive had a very long talk about today’s media dealings with the Filipino martial

arts, people are getting lazy for just pop a picture on Face Book write a few words and that is advertisement. Is it really? Does it really propagate and promote the practitioner and the style?April 5, 2016

Met with Federic Beleno of Sandata Kamao FMA and his Assistant Instructor Jonah Geronimo and his family, Federic is also the owner of Federic Tactic Weapons. A practitioner that trained in the Classical Modern Arnis under all three Presas brothers has modified and adapted his experiences into situa-tional encounters. Young, sharp, energetic and open minded he

will be one of the future generations that promote the Filipino martial arts.April 6, 2016Just a quick note, Arvino Logarte picked up the FMA Informa-tive representative and his wife at 10 am and it was off to Chili’s restaurant. Today and this only happens once a year it was “Big Mouth Burger Day” all hamburgers were for 180 pesos ($3.98) where usually you pay around 450 pesos ($9.73)April 8, 2016 FMA Informative representative with no scheduled appointments took his wife Vicky to the Bacolod Chicken Inasal which is located in Quezon Memorial Circle for lunch and to add to this she brought along her co-workers, (the FMA Informative representative wife worked and retired from the Department of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) Quezon City).

So her prior boss and co-workers which are also retired joined and had lunch. This was good for they had a good girlie talk, her former boss, whom they call mom, is a great person and one can definitely see why the group are close as friends.April 9, 2016 Well this morning left the Stone House Bed & Breakfast for an interview at Quezon circle Wild Animal Park. Left at 8:00am via jeepney, arrived at Quezon City Hall and walked to North Ave to the North entrance of

the Wild Animal Park, waited until almost 10:00am and nothing, appointment was for 9:00am. Walked back to

East Ave caught a jeepney back to the Stone House Bed & Breakfast. Hot and sweaty was not in a great mood of course, however heard from Rene Cristobol a Pencak Silat practitioner and the practitioner I was to interview and get pictures, he apologized, and said he was late due to the person he invited for the picture taking could not come and the person told him at the last minute. Rene called his daughter to come along instead. That is what caused the delay... Understandable and it must be remembered that the FMA Informative representative does not carry a cell phone and will not have one. Don’t like it tough s*#t, deal with it. The FMA Informative must commend Rene Cristobol, for doing what a lot of these Filipino martial art-ists here in Manila do not do, contact and explain what happened. Bravo for his Professionalism. Rene Cristobol has been reschedules for April 13, 2016.April 9, 2016 pm Met with Mr. Mio Cusi out of Canada who is here in the Philippines on some personal business, a real pleasure in meeting him, Joy Lim introduced us and it was great that she did. A journalist and Filipino martial artist in his own right and a very pleasant and knowledgeable individual. It was really great talking with Mr. Cusi on many topics about the Filipino martial arts and really looking forward to getting with him again in the future.April 10, 2016

Today the FMA Informative representative got to get together with a good friend who each year is interviewed, Sultan-Guro Matausugbu-ha Tawhid Sonatuan (new title - that is a mouth full for sure) Jay Sace-da Jumawan. For 4 years when the FMA Informative representative visits the Philippines only once did the interview go as the representa-tive wished for question. After that HAMSA Jumawan, sets the subject for the interview, because he brings something new to the table every time. This time the subject was the Sang-got which he learned from his uncle Maestro Romolo Looc of Misamis Occidental, Mindanao. HAMSA Jumawan brought Maestro Jeremias Bihay to assist him in the demonstration of the weapon; the weapons that were brought were not dull bladed or training weapons, but the real deal. Luck no one got cut. As usual HAMSA Jumawan was his energetic self. Always enjoy talking to

the man for he always has a story, he is the man of a 100 tales.

April 11, 2016 Today was catch up day putting things in order to commence putting some FMA Informative issues together, plus working on the upcoming FMA Informative newspaper. However in the evening Arvin my (broth-er from another mother) came by and we went to my favorite place which the FMA Informative representative visits each and every time visiting Manila to eat dinner, Hermanos Taco Shop – 27 Granada Ave. Cor Jose O Vera St., Valencia, Quezon City, Manila, (Face Book: Click Here.

Of course ordered the favorite Carne Asada Burrito just cannot get enough, great food and defi-nitely authentic, talked with the man in charge Mr. Christopher Mora who comes from Chula Vista, California.

April 12, 2016

Today was a good day for visiting was Grandmaster Jerry M. Evangelisan of Mangangayam Kali Arnis Eskrima, and of course he brought his group. The FMA Informative representative and his

wife have known Grandmas-ter Evangelisan for around 10 years, and are very happy to see him whenever possible. Last year was missed Grandmaster Evangelisan because was busy teaching the military in Mind-anao and could not get away. Anyway, the FMA Informative got to interview Grandmaster Evangelisan on close quarter combat (military – law enforcement – street), and

it got down to the interview besides being a sit down, getting information during actual techniques going through thoughts, reason for actions etc.April 13, 2016 Ok today, Rene Cristobal of Garangan Bela Diri, Pencak Silat came by for an interview. Rene was the practitioner the FMA Informative representative was suppose to interview on the 9th of April and it did not work out due to miss-ing each other at the Wild Animal Park. Anyway, Rene showed up, however without another practitioner so pic-tures could be taken. So discussed the write up that will be used and Rene will in the upcoming future provide pictures that are needed for the write up. Had a great conversation on different aspects in choosing a martial art to train in, and stories of the past, and tournament aspects of tournaments of today.April 14, 2016

Was suppose to meet up with Mr. Daniel Murray from the Cadenilla Es-krima Group out of Guam for break-fast, he was here just a few days, but his schedule and the fact that he was flying out of the Philippines to the United States today, it did not work out, hopefully in the future we can meet. Got to finally interview Grandmaster Crisanto Pasindo of Ar-nis Pasindo Eskrima Martial Arts, met him at the Amaryllis Condo where Mr. Mio Cusi was nice enough to have us all meet and also act as an interpreter, so the FMA Informative repre-sentative could really get everything understood in the interview, also Dr. Er-nesto Pascual Jr. a student and friend of both Grand-

master Pasindo and Mr. Cusi. It was two years ago the FMA Informative representative tried to interview Grandmaster Pasindo and it did not go well due to under-standing questions and answers. Can say this was 100% better with the help of Mr. Cusi. And also had Grandmaster Pasindo go through various techniques explaining his thoughts and movements.April 17, 2016 Tentatively was supposed to meet up with Practitioner Noel Monterde of Kombaton / Dumog a former student of Grandmaster Warlito “Lito” Concep-cion. However due to a small car accident (no one hurt) but an argument with the other driver he was unable to make it. Will try again tomorrow, which will be the FMA Informative representa-tives last day of interviews. In the afternoon it was very prosperous, was visited by NARAPHIL’s Mr. Generoso M. Martinada Jr. – Secretary General and Mr. Rey-naldo A. Postrado – Board Member, very inter-esting talk in catching up on what has been going

on with NARAPHIL over the years since talking with them when the FMA Informative representative was in charge of the FMAdigest and also talked about the future of the Organization.April 18, 2016 Today came out pretty good, Arvin (my brother from another mother) came by for lunch, the FMA Informative representative and Arvin went to Hermanos Taco Shop for their Carne Asada Burrito fix. Senior Master Noel Rosaena Monterde of Dumog / Kombatan and his assistant Senior Master Patrick Jason P. Balos came by and talked about Grandmaster Warlito “Lito” Concepcion Senior Master Monterde former instructor went a bit in-depth into dumog, talked about many things on the Filipino martial arts. Both Senior Masters Monterde and Balos are always seeking knowledge and continuously improve their skills. Well this was the last interview for the FMA Informative rep-resentative in the Philippines for this years visit, for tomorrow April 19th the representative will leave the Stone House Bed & Breakfast and visit with his wife’s family and back to the United States April 20th to start putting issues together for the FMA Informative.

The FMA Informative representative would like to thank all that talked with him and let him interview them. To those that made appointments and did not have the courtesy to cancel or contact the representative to say why they could not make it. Screw them and will ensure the FMA Informative will honor their wishes to not be promoted or promulgated by the FMA Informative in the future.

www.fmainformative.info

FMAInformative@gmail.com

www.FMAinformative.info

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