Remembering Guro Bud Balani – Rest In Peace – Fundraiser

DONATE:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembering-bud-balani

 

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Remembering Guro Bud Balani

My name is Johnathan Balani, and it’s with great sadness that I’m announcing the passing of my father, Hospecio “Bud” Balani Jr. who unexpectedly and tragically passed away on May 11, 2023 at the age of 60 years old.
To those who knew him he was a great man, teacher, loyal friend, and coworker. To our family he was a great son, brother, uncle, godfather and most of all a great father. He left behind his three brothers (Phil, John, and Dale), his mother Helly, and above all his Son, Johnathan. He was dealing with a great amount of medical issues these past few years following a near fatal motorcycle accident in 2019. One year ago Bud moved to Las Vegas with Johnathan to go be with Buds mother. Beforehand, he worked as a Local 80 Motion Pictures Studio Grip for 20+ years and was a martial arts instructor of Lameco Escrima & Kali lustrisimo.
Bud leaves behind a community that has been forever touched by his kindness, passion, and unmatchable hardheadedness and love for his family, friends, and colleagues. His impact on the lives will continue to be with us for years to come. Bud will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on through the memories and countless lives he has touched throughout his journey.
This fundraiser is to help our family with covering the funeral costs, memorial services, and transportation to get him back to Los Angeles from Las Vegas to be laid to rest with his late wife and Johnathans mother, Cindy Balani. Our family and friends really want to make it possible to give Bud the service that he deserves. For anyone in the position and/or willing to donate to our cause, any amount of money helps and it will be appreciated tremendously by me and my family.
Thank you greatly.
More About Guro Bud Balani:

Lameco Eskrima / Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar. with Guro Ariel F. Mosses and Guro Dino Flores Sunday, September 12th, 2021.

LAS VEGAS SEMINAR Sept2021 2

 

 

Lameco Eskrima / Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar.

with Guro Ariel F. Mosses and Guro Dino Flores

Sunday, September 12th, 2021.

Ten Tigers Martial Arts, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Payments: Combat FMA Paypal – CombatFMA@yahoo.com

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores. Las Vegas, Nevada. March 27th, 2021.

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo

with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores.

Las Vegas, Nevada. March 27th, 2021.

Ten Tigers Martial Arts, Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

LAS VEGAS SEMINAR MARCH 27 2021 2 2

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores. Las Vegas, Nevada. November 22nd, 2020.

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo

with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores.

Las Vegas, Nevada. November 22nd, 2020.

 

Las Vegas Seminar 11-20 FLAT

 

 

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores. Las Vegas, Nevada. November 22nd, 2020.

Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Dino Flores will be doing a seminar in Las Vegas November 22nd, 2020. It will be held at the Lohan School of Shaolin. 3850 Schiff Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89103.

Strictly No Video Recording. Photos OK.

Payments: Combat FMA Paypal – CombatFMA@yahoo.com

 

More Instructor Information:

Guro Ariel: https://ariel-mosses.squarespace.com/about-ariel-f-mosses

Guro Dino: http://mandirigma.org/?p=122

 

More Information at:

http://mandirigma.org/

http://backyardeskrima.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Eskrimador1898/

https://www.youtube.com/user/MandirigmaOrg

https://vimeo.com/mandirig

Online Lameco Eskrima S.O.G. and Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar – Hosted by EFA , Chiapas Mexico. November 21, 2020

Online Lameco Eskrima S.O.G. and Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar

– Hosted by EFA , Chiapas Mexico. November 21, 2020

 

Zoom 2 Seminar

Lameco Eskrima & Kali Ilustrisimo Spain Opens New Location in Madrid. November 2018

Lameco Eskrima & Kali Ilustrisimo Spain Opens New Location in Madrid. November 2018

 

http://www.kali-jeetkunedo.com

 

Curso de inauguracion de nuestra nueva sala en Avenida de Carabanchel Alto con el Presidente de la Federación de Esgrima Histórica FEEH Manuel Campo (de Galicia) nuestro Instructor Quino (de Cantabria), Manu García Nieto (de
Asturias) Pionero de MMA en España y luchador de Bellator, y ex campeon de Kick y guarda espaldas de los famosos Xacobo Gancedo. DM nos ofrece tambien curso teórico de municiones. Y Kali Ilustrisimo, Lameco y JKD. Todo un encuentro. Mas completo imposible.

 

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About Tim B. Fredianelli:

Tim B. Fredianelli is Assistant Instructor in Jeet Kune Do under Sifu Tim Tackett and Sifu Bob Bremmer, Certified Knife Expert under Hock Hocheim, 2nd dan Black Belt in Kick Boxing, was a senior member of the Instituto de Kali Jun Fan in Madrid for 11 years training in Inosanto Kali and Muay Thai, and Wing Chung, Jun Fan and Jeet Kune Do. Has more than 25 years of experience in martial arts. Was the first to train and promote Lameco Eskrima and Kalis Ilustrisimo in Spain, and has been promoting and training Lameco and Kalis Ilustrisimo since 2003. He now trains a small group of dedicated students in all these arts.

http://www.kali-jeetkunedo.com

 

 

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores. Las Vegas, Nevada. March 23rd, 2018.

Seminar: Lameco SOG Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Ariel Flores Mosses and Guro Dino Flores. Las Vegas, Nevada. March 23rd, 2018.

 

Las Vegas March 2018 V4 JPG1

 

 

Guro Dino and Guro Ariel have been training partners since the 1980′s. They first began teaching seminars together in the 1990′s in Wahington State, Oregon, Nevada and California.

About Guro Ariel:

Traditional Arts for a Modern World!Master Ariel F. Mosses has over 30 years of Filipino Martial Arts experience. He has trained under the watchful eyes and close supervision of three legendary Grandmasters: Filipino Martial Arts Hall of Fame Grandmaster Conrad A. Manaois, the late Grandmaster Christopher “Topher” Ricketts of Kali Ilustrisimo, and the late Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite, founder of Lameco Eskrima International.Master Ariel F. Mosses is the Vice President and Chief Instructor for Manaois Systems International. Master Mosses holds an 8th degree black belt in Kali Jukune Do, as well as an 8th level Master Instructor in Manaois Eskrima.He is an authorized Senior Instructor in Lameco S.O.G., and an authorized Senior Instructor in Kali Ilustrisimo C.N.R. Master Mosses is enshrined in the Filipino Martial Arts Hall of Fame, and is a proud member of Kapisanang Mandirigma, a Federation of warriors from different disciplines of the Warrior Arts of the Philippines.Master Mosses is a certified Nevada CCW instructor.Trained by LEGENDS of Filipino CombatThe Filipino Warrior Tradition is founded upon honoring and preserving the knowledge passed on though our teachers. Each generation of students should seek to maintain the virtues and the original intent of his teachers’ systems of combat. These are the teachers and friends who have directly trained Master Mosses.Grand Master Conrad A. ManaoisGrand Master Christopher “Topher” RickettsPunong Guro Edgar G. Sulite

 

Close Ties: Family, Honor, TraditionMaster Mosses has close ties with the influential trainers and practitioners in FMA today. This close knit group forms a small community, frequently training together to keep the tradition ALIVE, VIBRANT, and TRUE to its roots.

Master Mosses’s cousin, Guro Dino Flores, shares in this long history of training and sparring together.They began their formal training in the 1980′s with Grandmaster Henry Bio, of Sikaran Arnis. Both Master Mosses and Guro Flores also trained in the NINOY CINCO TEROS Arnis style with Grand Master Conrad A. Manaois.Each also trained directly with Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite. Guro Dino was accepted as an initial member of Sulite’s newly formed BACKYARD GROUP, AKA The Sulite Oriehenal Group (S.O.G.) into which Master Mosses became an honorary member.Master Mosses soon relocated to Washington State, where Punong Guro Sulite made Master Mosses his head representative for the state. Over the years, Punong Guro spent many weeks at Master Mosses’s home where he PERSONALLY trained Master Mosses. He became Master Mosses’s close friend and mentor. Today, Master Mosses continues to teach his beloved instructor’s Lameco Eskrima in its pure form.Guro Flores and Master Mosses also trained for many years under Grand Master Christopher N. “Topher” Ricketts until his passing in 2010.

 

https://ariel-mosses.squarespace.com

 

About Guro Dino:

Guro Dino trained for many years with Grandmaster Conrad A. Manaois in Ninoy Cinco Teros Arnis and Master Henry Bio in Sikaran Arnis in the 1980′s along with his cousins Ariel Flores Mosses and Choy Flores. In the early 1990′s he was accepted as an initial member of Punong Guro Edgar Sulites’ newly forming Backyard Group AKA the Sulite Oriehenal Group

At the recommendation of Punong Guro Sulite, Guro Dino first visited Master Christopher Ricketts in the Philippines in 1995 and was introduced to his perspective on the Warrior Arts.  Since the passing of Punong Guro Sulite,  he has continuously train in Kali Ilustrisimo Under Master Christopher Ricketts, who gave Guro Dino permission to teach his method before his passing. Guro Dino was the Lameco representative for Master Ricketts and a member of Bakbakan Philippines sponsored by Master Ricketts. Guro Dino continues his training in Master Ricketts method of training with his two sons, the young Masters Bruce and Guro Brandon Ricketts. Masters Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts are now officially the head of the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts “Ilustrisimo” organization which strives to preserve the purity of the art.

Guro Dino additionally had good fortune to experience training in Kali Ilustrisimo with Dodong Sta. Iglesia, Grandmaster Rey Galang, Grandmaster Yuli Romo and Grandmaster Tony Diego. He also trained in Kali Ilustrisimo with one of his training partners and fellow Lameco Backyard member Guro Hans Tan, who was certified to teach Kali Ilustrsimo under Master Tony Diego.Additionally Guro Dino trained privately for several years in California and the Philippines with Professor Ireneo L. Olavides in Eskrima De Campo JDC-IO.

Guro Dino also cites the importance of his training partners in Lameco SOG and Kapisanang Mandirigma in his growth. After the passing of Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, certain members of the Lameco Backyard group reformed also became know as Kapisanang Mandirigma. The group regularly continued  training, sparring, experimenting and seeking the deeper roots of their chosen arts. This group includes Guros Joel Adriatico, Hospecio “Bud” Balani Jr., Mar Elepaño, Choy Flores, Arnold Noche, Gary Quan, Hans Anton Tan and Pantaleon “Mang Leo” Revilles, Jr. (RIP). With frequent visits by Guro Lowell Pueblos, Guro Bong Hebia and honorary member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses.

http://backyardeskrima.com/?page_id=52

 

Seminar: Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo European Tour August 2018 with Guro Dino Flores

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Seminar: Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo

European Tour August 2018

with Guro Dino Flores

 

More information about Guro Dino:

http://backyardeskrima.com/?page_id=52 

About Guro Dino:

Guro Dino trained for many years with Grandmaster Conrad A. Manaois in Ninoy Cinco Teros Arnis and Master Henry Bio in Sikaran Arnis in the 1980′s along with his cousins Ariel Flores Mosses and Choy Flores. In the early 1990′s he was accepted as an initial member of Punong Guro Edgar Sulites’ newly forming Backyard Group AKA the Sulite Oriehenal Group

At the recommendation of Punong Guro Sulite, Guro Dino first visited Master Christopher Ricketts in the Philippines in 1995 and was introduced to his perspective on the Warrior Arts.  Since the passing of Punong Guro Sulite,  he has continuously train in Kali Ilustrisimo Under Master Christopher Ricketts, who gave Guro Dino permission to teach his method before his passing. Guro Dino was the Lameco representative for Master Ricketts and a member of Bakbakan Philippines sponsored by Master Ricketts. Guro Dino continues his training in Master Ricketts method of training with his two sons, the young Masters Bruce and Guro Brandon Ricketts. Masters Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts are now officially the head of the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts “Ilustrisimo” organization which strives to preserve the purity of the art.

Guro Dino additionally had good fortune to experience training in Kali Ilustrisimo with Dodong Sta. Iglesia, Grandmaster Rey Galang, Grandmaster Yuli Romo and Grandmaster Tony Diego. He also trained in Kali Ilustrisimo with one of his training partners and fellow Lameco Backyard member Guro Hans Tan, who was certified to teach Kali Ilustrsimo under Master Tony Diego.Additionally Guro Dino trained privately for several years in California and the Philippines with Professor Ireneo L. Olavides in Eskrima De Campo JDC-IO.

Guro Dino also cites the importance of his training partners in Lameco SOG and Kapisanang Mandirigma in his growth. After the passing of Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, certain members of the Lameco Backyard group reformed also became know as Kapisanang Mandirigma. The group regularly continued  training, sparring, experimenting and seeking the deeper roots of their chosen arts. This group includes Guros Joel Adriatico, Hospecio “Bud” Balani Jr., Mar Elepaño, Choy Flores, Arnold Noche, Gary Quan, Hans Anton Tan and Pantaleon “Mang Leo” Revilles, Jr. (RIP). With frequent visits by Guro Lowell Pueblos, Guro Bong Hebia and honorary member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses.

http://backyardeskrima.com/?page_id=52

 

For more information – Contact Guro Dino’s LAMECO S.O.G and Kali Ilustrisimo Representative in Spain,

Tim Fredianelli: fredianellibruno@gmail.com

 

 

 

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SEMINARIO DE LAMECO ESKRIMA Y KALI ILUSTRISIMO CON GURO DINO FLORES EN TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, CHIAPAS. September, 2017.

SEMINARIO DE LAMECO ESKRIMA Y KALI ILUSTRISIMO CON GURO DINO FLORES EN TUXTLA GUTIERREZ, CHIAPAS. September, 2017.

 

guro dino flores lameco iluystrisimo

Article: Zona de Campeones – Guro DIno Flores impartió seminario de Lameco Eskrima y Kali Ilustrisima. September 2017

Article: Zona de Campeones – Guro DIno Flores impartió seminario de Lameco Eskrima y Kali Ilustrisima. September 2017

http://www.zonadecampeones.com/portal/index.php/selecciona-tu-deporte/artes-marciales/judo-y-jiu-jitsu/1257-guro-dino-flores-impartio-seminario-de-lameco-eskrima-y-kali-ilustrisima

zona logo

zona article

 

ZONA GALLERY

 

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Seminar: Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo European Tour 2016 with Guro Dino Flores

Seminar: Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo European Tour 2016 with Guro Dino Flores

Seminar Spain 2016

Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo European Tour

Come train with one of Lameco S.O.G´s and Kali Ilustrisimo´s most combat oriented Instructors.

Lameco S.O.G. & Kali Ilustrisimo European Tour – July 2016

Come train with one of Lameco S.O.G´s and Kali Ilustrisimo´s most combat oriented Instructors – Guro Dino Flores! Guro Dino has almost 25 years of experience with Lameco Eskrima and Kali Ilustrisimo.

Guro Dino was one of Punong Guro Edgar Sulite favorite fighters from the Infamous Lameco Backyard Group. In the Lameco Backyard, fancy drills were always secondary – various degrees of sparring intensity always came first. He was personally trained by Punong Guro to be a fighter above all else. Even accepting challenges on Punong Guro Sulite’s behalf. He is also is an Authorized Instructor under Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts and Grandmaster Antonio Diego. During Master Ricketts time in the USA, Guro Dino was one of his assistants. Constantly sparring people at Master Ricketts request. He has also had the good fortune to train with all Five Pillars of Ilustrisimo and was one of the few members of the notorious LAMECO S.O.G. He is currently the director and an Instructor of the Kapisanang Mandirigma Institute founded by members of Lameco S.O.G.

Join us in Madrid and Ibiza. Guro Dino will be taking it a high level of intensity. As an option only – for those who want to take full advantage of this combat oriented training, bring you sparring gear. To add to the excitement, Guro Dino will also be accompanied by two of his most skilled fighters – Brett Granstaff and Mark Ramos. Find out for yourself why Lameco S.O.G. and Kali Ilustrisimo is respected in the Martial Art World.

More information about Guro Dino Flores at this link: http://backyardeskrima.com/?page_id=52

Guro Dino Flores will be conducting Action Packed seminars in IBIZA AND MADRID. Guro Dino is only in Europe periodically. Don’t miss this very rare opportunity!!!

 

IBIZA Seminar 12 hours

15th and 16th , OF JULY 2016

120 Euros if paid before May 30th

150 Euros after May 30th

 

 

MADRID Workshop 8 hours

23 RD OF JULY Saturday From 9:00 am to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 pm.

70 Euros if paid before May 30th, 2016

85 Euros after May 30th

 

Special prices for groups.

 

For more information – Contact Guro Dino’s LAMECO S.O.G and Kali Ilustrisimo Representative in Spain,

Tim Fredianelli: fredianellibruno@gmail.com

 

More Seminar Information at: http://backyardeskrima.com/?p=1813 and http://mandirigma.org/?p=2957
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Seminar: Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Brandon Ricketts. Glendale FMA, California. April 9th, 2016

Seminar: Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Brandon Ricketts.

Glendale FMA, California. April 9th, 2016.

 

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Seminar: Lameco SOG and Kali Ilustrisimo with Guro Dino Flores Guro and Ariel Flores Mosses. March 17th, 2016. Las Vegas.

Seminar: Lameco SOG and Kali  Ilustrisimo

with Guro Dino Flores Guro and Ariel Flores Mosses.

March 17th, 2016. Las Vegas.

Guro Dino Flores Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Lameco Ilustrisimo

Book Release – Kali Ilustrisimo: The Sword Fighting Art of Antonio Ilustrisimo by Master Christopher Ricketts

Ilustrisimo Book

Kali Ilustrisimo: The Sword Fighting Art of Antonio Ilustrisimo

By Master Christopher Ricketts, Guro Bruce Ricketts, Guro Brandon Ricketts

 

http://www.blurb.com/b/6612146-kali-ilustrisimo-the-sword-fighting-art-of-antonio

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

With over 3 decades of intensive training in both
Filipino & Chinese disciplines, Christopher Ricketts
presents Kali Ilustrisimo as it was taught to him by
the now legendary swordsman, Antonio Ilustrisimo.
Grandmaster Ricketts brings his insight to this highly
regarded fighting art with clarity and precise
methodology that is sure to enrich any student
regardless of style or system.

Lavishly illustrated with diagrams and pictures
from Grandmaster Rickett’s personal and
comprehensive archives, experts and beginners
alike stand to benefit greatly from this presentation.
Catch a rare glimpse into the inner workings
of this uniquely Filipino fighting system.

The art and legacy of Antonio Ilustrisimo lives on.

Author website
https://www.facebook.com/IlustrisimoUSA

Budo Magazine Publishes the final Interview of Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo. Interview by Tim Fredianell.

 

Budo Magazine Publishes the final Interview of Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo. Interview by  Tim Fredianell.

 

Read interview in English here: http://issuu.com/budoweb/docs/martial_arts_magazine_budo_internat_f897c9abdb5660

Read interview in Spanish here: http://issuu.com/budoweb/docs/revista_artes_marciales_cinturon_ne_86c3fa97b13e16?e=1589527%2F30101651

GM Tony Diego

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Guro Brandon Ricketts to teach Kali Ilustrisimo in San Diego, California. October 2015.

 Guro Brandon Ricketts to teach Kali Ilustrisimo in San Diego, California. October 2015.

 

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Ten Tigers Martial Arts Las Vegas presents Guro Dino Flores and Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Ilustrisimo & Lameco Eskrima. Las Vegas, Nevada, August 6th, 2015

Ten Tigers Martial Arts Las Vegas presents Guro Dino Flores and Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Ilustrisimo & Lameco Eskrima. Las Vegas, Nevada, August 6th, 2015

 

Lameco Ilustrisimo

Photos: Guro Brandon Ricketts at Glendale FMA / Aranda – Ricketts Memorial Gym. July 12, 2015.

Guro Brandon Ricketts Seminar at Glendale FMA / Aranda – Ricketts Memorial Gym.

On July 12 2015 Guro Brandon Ricketts conducted a seminar at Glendale FMA / Aranda – Ricketts Memorial Gym. The Event was hosted by Guro Bud Balani and Guro Dino Flores of the Los Angeles chapters of Lameco SOG, Kali Ilustrisimo and Kapisanang Mandirigma. Attendees came from all over California from places such as San Diego, Santa Barbara, Stockton and San Francisco. Guro Brandon was also supported by some of his students from the USA Headquarters of Kali Ilustrisimo.

Guro Brandon Ricketts focused of the fundemental core techniques and how they relate to real time sparring. A concept his father the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts drilled into his dedicated students. The seminar concluded with the participant doing some light sparring to test some of the techniques they had just learned in real time.
All the participants had a great time with this truly hands on approach to the art.

Guro Brandon is leaving for the Philippines at the end of the year. One of his objectives is to take partial administrative charge of his fathers Bakbakan Legacy and bring it into the next generation. The Los Angeles chapters of Lameco SOG, Kali Ilustrisimo and Kapisanang Mandirigma will try to host Guro Brandon Ricketts again for another seminar before he leaves. Check the www.mandirigma.org website for updates.
About Guro Brandon Ricketts

In 2011 Guro Bruce Ricketts was formally selected as the new Chief Instructor of Master Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo Organization and Bakbakan Philippines. The official ceremony was held  in Manila, Philippines. During the same ceremony Guro Brandon Ricketts was promoted to the the position as Second in Command to Guro Bruce Ricketts. Also selected was the Administrative Board which includes Guro Ronnie Ricketts, Guro Alex Ricketts and Guro Jason Ricketts. The organization is dedicated to maintaining the legacy of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts. The Advisory Board was also selected.

Guro Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts trained under their Father, Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts since they could walk. The training room in their Philippine home was located in front of their bedroom. Daily exposure to the arts was the norm. Besides daily training with their Father and other students, many masters spent time training in their home. To name a few, legends such as Master Roland Dantes, Master Rey Galang, Master Yuli Romo, Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, Master Tony Diego and none other than Grandmaster Ilustrisimo himself would train there. The technical and fighting skill of these young Guro’s clearly reflect their esteemed lineage. Guro Bruce and Guro Brandon are also accomplished practitioners of Bakbakan Sagasa Kickboxing, Ngo Cho Kun, Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing.

 

1 Flyer

Event Flyer

2 Gym Banner

Aranda – Ricketts / Glendale FMA Gym Banner

 

 

 

3 Lameco SOG

 

Lameco SOG Members with Guro Brandon. Guro Bud Balani, Guro Dino and Guro Bryan Emerson with his son.

4 Hosts

 

Events Hosts with Guro Brandon. Guro Dino, GM Joe Tan, Guro Johnathan Balani, Guro Bud Balani.

5 Participants in action

 

Guro Brandon giving pointers.

6 Sparring 1

 

Sparring!

7 Sparring 2

Sparring!

 

8 Sparring 3

 

Sparring!

9 Some of the participants

Group photo with some of the participants.

10 Sparring 4

 

Sparring!

11 Participants in action 2

 

Guro Brandon giving pointers

12 Participants in action 3

 

Participants in action.

13 Participants in action 4

 

Participants in action.

14 Guro Brandon giving pointers

 

Guro Brandon giving pointers.

15 Participants in action 5

 

Guro Johnathan giving pointers.

16 Contact drilling 1

 

Contact drilling.

17 Contact drilling 2

Contact drilling.

Eskrima Documentary Series – Teaser Trailer: Ang Dangal Ng Lahi (Pride)

Eskrima Documentary Series – Teaser Trailer: Ang Dangal Ng Lahi (Pride)

Ang Dangal ng Lahi (Pride) is a series of short documentaries about the Warrior Arts of the Philippines commonly known as Eskrima, Arnis and Kali. The focus will be arts and organizations of Bakbakan Philippines, Ilustrisimo and Lameco Eskrima.

Director: Tim Fredianelli
General Consultant: Dino Flores
Distribution: Mandirigma.org
Kapisanang Mandirigma Productions

Release Date: 2015

For more information go to:

http://mandirigma.org/?p=2651

© 2015 Kapisanang Mandirigma Productions, All Rights Reserved.

 

Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar with Guro Brandon Ricketts, July 12, 2015. Glendale FMA, California.

Kali Ilustrisimo Seminar with Guro Brandon Ricketts, July 12, 2015.

Glendale FMA, California.

 

Brandon Seminar 5 flat

 

 

A rare opportunity to train with Guro Brandon Ricketts. Guro Brandon grew up with the art and will give you insight into the transition from being a theory based drill practitioner to a real time functional based Eskrimador. Guro Brandon will only be in the USA till the end of 2015 – so don’t miss your chance to train with one of the heirs of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo lineage.

10Am to 2PM

$50.00 prepaid by friday, July 10th. Spectators $40.00 prepaid.

$70.00 at the door.  Spectators $60 at the door.

Contact: mandirigma.org@gmail.com

More info at: http://mandirigma.org/?p=2783

http://backyardeskrima.com/?p=1613

This seminar is open to the general public. No Video Please. No Photography without permission.

Brought to you by The Warrior Arts of the Philippines Alliance – Kali Ilustrisimo, Bakbakan Philippines, Lameco SOG, Eskrima, Kapisanang Mandirigma, Combat FMA Las Vegas.

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In 2011 Guro Bruce Ricketts was formally selected as the new Chief Instructor of Master Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo Organization and Bakbakan Philippines. The official ceremony was held  in Manila, Philippines. During the same ceremony Guro Brandon Ricketts was promoted to the the position as Second in Command to Guro Bruce Ricketts. Also selected was the Administrative Board which includes Guro Ronnie Ricketts, Guro Alex Ricketts and Guro Jason Ricketts. The organization is dedicated to maintaining the legacy of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts. The Advisory Board was also selected.

Guro Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts trained under their Father, Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts since they could walk. The training room in their Philippine home was located in front of their bedroom. Daily exposure to the arts was the norm. Besides daily training with their Father and other students, many masters spent time training in their home. To name a few, legends such as Master Roland Dantes, Master Rey Galang, Master Yuli Romo, Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, Master Tony Diego and none other than Grandmaster Ilustrisimo himself would train there. The technical and fighting skill of these young Guro’s clearly reflect their esteemed lineage. Guro Bruce and Guro Brandon are also accomplished practitioners of Bakbakan Sagasa Kickboxing, Ngo Cho Kun, Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing.

Seminar: Invitation Only. Guro Viko Aquino-Perrine of Kalis Ilustrisimo and Bakbakan International. Glendale FMA, California. Feb 2014

Seminar: Invitation Only. Guro Viko Aquino-Perrine of Kalis Ilustrisimo and Bakbakan International. Glendale FMA, California. Feb 2014

Guro Viko Aquino-Perrine of Kalis Ilustrisimo and Bakbakan International will be conducting a private full day seminar at Glendale FMA, to teach and showcase the Ilustrisimo Fighting style as taught by the late Master Topher Ricketts, Grandmaster Tony Diego and Mang Romy Macapagal. The basics and fighting mindset of this complete fighting system will be showcased with

emphasis on the basics and its foundational techniques. Guro Viko will also demonstrate various intermediate and advanced techniques. Kalis Ilustrisimo is held in very high regard as one of the most effective styles of Filipino Martial Arts. It is named after its originator, the legendary Grandmaster Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo, who had in many situations proven the value of his martial craft in the real world, as he intended the art to be used for the preservation of one’s life.Based on a bladed weapon combative system, its effectiveness can be applied to unarmed combat with relative ease. This seminar will thoroughly cover the basics of Kalis Ilustrisimo and will enable students to absorb the ingenuity and simplicity of the art as it is taught in it’s native land.Guro Viko Aquino-Perrine has been a senior student and practitioner of Kalis Ilustrisimo for the majority of his life. He has been an instructor of this craft in the Philippines, Australia and the United States.  

Guro Viko Aquino-Perrine of Kalis Ilustrisimo and Bakbakan International
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Lameco/Ilustrisimo/Bakbakan Workshop with Guro Doran Sordo and Guro Dino Flores in FMA Informative Newspaper Vol3 No12 – 2014

Lameco/Ilustrisimo/Bakbakan Workshop with Guro Doran Sordo and Guro Dino Flores         in FMA Informative Newspaper Vol3 No12 – 2014

 

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Eskrima Workshop: with Guro Doran Sordo and Guro Dino Flores. Boracay Island, Philippines. Oct 30th to Nov 5th, 2014.

lameco ilustrisimo bakbakan

Bakbakan Combat Arts International Senior Instructor -Doran Sordo. Guro Doran Sordo has had the privilege to begin training in his teens under the legendary Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, Master Yuli Romo, Master Tony Diego, Master Christopher Ricketts and Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo himself.

Guro Dino is a long time practitioner who has had the privilege to train with under legendary Masters –  Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, Master Yuli Romo, Master Tony Diego and Master Christopher Ricketts.

Guro Doran Sordo pays tribute to his long time teacher Grandmaster Tony Diego.

Guro Doran Sordo

 

I met Mang Tony Diego Kalis Ilustrisimo around 1986. He was introduced to me by my master, GM Topher Ricketts when we would accompany him to practice at the Luneta park on Sundays or the gym in Binondo. As the years passed, Master Topher would always ask Master Tony to teach me some techniques and polish details in my form whether it be stance, swing, footwork, etc. Master Tony was always so generous in his teaching and would share so much. I know him to be a quiet, humble man who would always tell me not to call him “Master”. Whenever he saw me, he would always fondly greet me by exclaiming “Sord!” and he always had a smile on his face whenever i came to Luneta. We would sit sometimes between practice and just chat. He would tell me about the good old days with Master Topher, showing me techniques while we were chatting. How he remembers us when we were still young and would joke that we were thinner then. He was a learned man, who would often ask me how my spiritual practice was coming along.

I remember one of the last conversations I had with Master Topher before he passed away. He told me “Never forget your Ilustrisimo. See Master Tony as often as you can and learn as much as you can. You practice what you learn until you are old.” I remember now the last conversation i had with Master Tony at his home in Tondo. He said to always be mindful of the details. I remember the last time I saw him. It was a day before he passed away. We said a prayer together and I went downstairs so he could rest.

I am honoured to be his student and proud to continue his legacy however way I can. I feel privileged to have been able to spend some time with him and learn from this great teacher. I can almost hear swords clashing as he is reunited once again with Grand Master Tatang Ilustrisimo, GM Topher Ricketts and PG Edgar Sulite. We miss you Master Tony.

Paalam Po, GM Tony Diego.

Pugay

 

Master Diego 1

Rest In Peace Master Tony Diego, Head of Kalis Ilustrisimo. August 25th 2014.

Master Diego 1

 

Rest In Peace Master Tony Diego, Head of Kalis Ilustrisimo.

Rest In Peace Master Tony Diego. Thank you for the friendship, knowledge and wisdom you shared. I hope you are now happily practicing again with your dear teacher – Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo. Along with your old training buddies Master Christopher Ricketts and Punong Guro Edgar Sulite who also departed way too soon.

Love & Respect,
Dino Flores

 

Master Diego 2

Guro Dave Gould of Lameco Eskrima pays tribute to Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrismo.

Master Tony Diego Ilustrisimo

Guro Dave Gould of Lameco Eskrima pays tribute to Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrismo.

I just wanted to pass on some sad news, that being the passing of Grand Master Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo fame. He passed due to a long illness yesterday on August 25, 2014 (Philippine Time).

GM Tony Diego and Master Yuli Romo were the first students of GM Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo who formally began their training with the old battle tested Grand Master in 1977. years later along came PG Edgar G. Sulite, Master Christopher N. Ricketts and Master Rey Galang who were recognized as the 5 Pillars of Kalis Ilustrisimo and were credited with spending the most time training directly under the astute tutelage of GM Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo as well as them being credited with better organizing the Kalis Ilustrisimo system and creating its curriculum based on the movements and reactions of their teacher, “Tatang” Ilustrisimo regarding that discipline.

For us in the Lameco Eskrima System Master Tony Diego was a great influence and he was the one who really brought PG Edgar G. Sulite to Kalis Ilustrisimo and to GM Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo, basically resulting from a sparring match between PG Edgar G. Sulite and Master Tony Diego, this was a defining moment in the evolution of the Lameco Eskrima System as we know it today, simply because up until this sparring session Lameco Eskrima was comprised of only 4 major influences, those being; De Campo 1-2-3 Orehenal, Kali Pekiti-Tirsia, Modernos Largos and the Sulite Rapelon Style along with the 6 minor influences of the system. Kalis Ilustrisimo would prove to be the missing piece of the system and this was discovered during that very crucial sparring session between PG Edgar G.Sulite and Master Tony Diego so many years ago.

The result of that sparring match saw PG Edgar G. Sulite becoming a student of Kalis Ilustrisimo under GM Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo and over the years adding countless techniques, concepts and principles from Kalis Ilustrisimo to the Lameco Eskrima curriculum to strike a fine balance to the system, especially regarding the blade and dagger portion of the curriculum.

Master Tony Diego became fast friends with PG Edgar G. Sulite and remained a very close friend for the rest of Edgar`s life and was partially responsible for the International Recognition of Kalis Ilustrisimo, Bakbakan International and Lameco Eskrima International along with Master Yuli Romo, Master Christopher Ricketts, PG Edgar G. Sulite and Master Rey Galang.

After GM Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo Passed away in 1997 Master Tony Diego being the heir apparent of the system was elected by the other senior members of kalis Ilustrisimo to take control of the system. It is a shame that he has been taken from us but he was taken contributing much back to the Filipino Warrior Arts Community from which much was given him over his life time.

Rest in Peace Master Tony Diego and long live your legacy!

Through sponsorship by Senator Miguel Zubiri – Arnis Officially Declared National Martial Art and Sport, Dec. 11 2009

170px-Seal_of_the_Philippine_Senate.svg

UPDATE ON LAWS PASSED DURING THE 14th & 15th CONGRESS
Researched by the Executive-Legislative Liaison Service

LAWS OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE (15th CONGRESS)

 

RA 9850

AN ACT DECLARING ARNIS AS THE NATIONAL MARTIAL ART AND
SPORT OF THE PHILIPPINES (SIGNED INTO LAW ON DECEMBER 11,  2009)

 

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The principal author and sponsor of RA 9850 is Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri. He is a dedicated Martial Artist and Eskrimador. His primary teacher since childhood is Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts, founder of Bakbakan Philippines. System that he studied under Grandmaster Ricketts include Bakbakan Sagasa Kickboxing, Ngo Cho Kung Fu and Kali Ilustrisimo. Other teachers include Bakbakan Members Grandmaster Alex Co (Ngo Cho), Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite (Lameco Eskrima), Grandmaster Tony Diego (Kali Ilustrisimo) and Grandmaster Antonio Ilustrisimo himself.

 

master-ricketts-bakbakan lameco ilustrisimo sagasa sulite

Miguel with some of his teachers and fellow Bakbakan members.

 

Lameco Sulite-advanced-balisong www.mandirigma.org

On the cover of the “Advanced Balisong” book with one of his teachers, Punong Guro Edgar Sulite.

Senator Juan Miguel F. Zubiri

In 2008, Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” F. Zubiri, at age 39, became the youngest to be elected as Senate Majority Leader since the First Congress in 1946. A veteran legislator, he served the 3rd District of Bukidnon from 1998 to 2007 and was always cited as one of the most outstanding solons in the House of Representatives. He has also maintained a perfect attendance in the Plenary Sessions for the last 12 years (4 Congresses) both as Congressman and as Senator, and including this 15th Congress.

In the 14th Congress and during his stint as Senate Majority Leader, Sen. Zubiri helped steer the Senate to a record performance of around 650 bills enacted into laws.

Sen. Migz is the principal author and sponsor of more than 20 major laws, both in the Senate and during his stint as Congressman. As a fervent advocate of clean energy, he worked for the passage of RA 9513 or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 and RA 9367 or the Biofuels Act of 2006, earning him the moniker Mr. Clean Energy. Among the other laws he sponsored, principally authored or co-authored are:

 

RA10068 – Organic Agriculture Act of 2010;

RA 9147 – Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act;

RA 10121 – Philippine Disaster Risk Management Act;

RA 9165 – Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002;

RA 9679 – the Home Development Mutual Fund Law of 2009 (Pag-IBIG Fund);

RA 9653 – the Rent Control Act of 2009;

RA 9997 – the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009;

RA 9996 – the Mindanao Development Authority Act of 2010;

RA 9904 – the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations;

RA 9903 – Condonation of Penalties on Delinquent Social Security Contributions;

RA 9507 – the Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Condonation Program;

RA 9850 – Declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport;

RA 9500 – UP Charter Amendments;

RA 9163 – National Service Training Program;

RA 9166 – Armed Forces of the Philippines Rate Pay Base Increase Act;

RA 10072 – the New Charter of the Philippine Red Cross;

RA 9645 – Declaring July 27 of Every Year as Araw ng Iglesia Ni Cristo and as Special Working Holiday; and

RA 9849 – Declaring Eidul Adha as a National Holiday.

He is also considered the “father” of the New Cooperative Code being the principal sponsor and author of RA 9520 or the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008.

Sen. Migz is known as a champion of environmental concerns, an advocacy he pursues in the Senate and among his top legislative agenda. In the current 15th Congress, he chairs the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. He also chairs the Committee on Cooperatives and 3 Joint Congressional Oversight Committees such as the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act; Joint Congressional Committee on Clean Air Act; and the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Cooperatives. He is also a member of 20 other Senate standing committees.

Sen. Migz is involved in concrete environmental programs such as being the founder of the Philippine Deer Foundation, a deer conservation project, and as President of the Palawan-based Katala Foundation which protects endangered wildlife species and their habitats. A trained first aider and certified rescue diver, he is a Governor of the Philippine Red Cross and active member of the Red Cross Youth Committee and Concerned Divers of the Philippines.

Senator Zubiri has published two books: the Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008, and Bukidnon: The Philippine Frontier. He is a graduate of Master’s in Environment and Natural Resources Management at the University of the Philippines Open University and Bachelor of Science in Agri-Business Management at the University of the Philippines in Los Baños. He has also been conferred four Honorary or Honoris Causa Doctoral degrees by various private and state universities.

Senator Migz takes pride for being the husband to lovely Audrey; a loving father to Ma. Adriana and Juanmi; and a good son to Vice-Governor Jose Ma. Zubiri, Jr. of Bukidnon, and Victoria Fernandez-Zubiri of Libon, Albay.

From: http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/zubiri_juanmiguel_bio.asp

 

Miguel Zubiri Bakbakan Ilustrisimo Lameco

Miguel Zubiri signing a copy of RA 9850 for us.RA 9850
AN ACT DECLARING ARNIS AS THE NATIONAL MARTIAL ART AND
SPORT OF THE PHILIPPINES (SIGNED INTO LAW ON DECEMBER 11, 2009)

Principal author and sponsor of RA 9850 as Senator.

In the rear there are several Eskrima tournament awards that Miguel won. In his first ever tournament which he won, it was only Punong Guro Sulite and himself who entered him on a whim. Other tournaments had Master Ricketts and Grandmaster Ilustrisimo as his Coach and corner man.

In the foreground a copy of Punong Guro Sulites book “Advanced Balising” with him as a teenager on the comer with one of his teachers.

Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Honolulu, Hawaii, Saturday, September 13th & 14th, 2014

Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Honolulu, Hawaii, Saturday, September 13th & 14th, 2014

Announcing the upcoming seminar in Honolulu, Hawaii September 13 & 14, 2014. Please check out our exciting new website at www.combatfma.com designed by humaninterestvideoproductions@gmail.com

 

\Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Kali Arnis Eskrima

The “Ilustrisimo World Tour” – June & July 2014

The “Ilustrisimo World Tour” will run during June & July 2014 in the following location: USA/Denver – CANADA/ Toronto – BELGIUM/Brussels – SPAIN/Madrid.

Peachie Baron & Arnold Narzothe 2 top instructors under Master Tony Diego will animate the “KI Tour 2014″

 

 

WWW.MANDIRIGMA.ORG 1

 

WWW.MANDIRIGMA.ORG 2

 

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https://www.facebook.com/events/1415937185336231/1445571492372800/?notif_t=plan_mall_activity

The “Ilustrisimo World Tour” will run during June & July 2014 in the following location: USA/Denver – CANADA/ Toronto – BELGIUM/Brussels – SPAIN/Madrid.

Peachie Baron & Arnold Narzothe 2 top instructors under Master Tony Diego will animate the “KI Tour 2014″

Wish you would like to host an “Ilustrisimo” evening training in your club keep me posted.

Schedule:
Saturday 19 july : 12h – 18h00
Sunday 20 july : 10h – 16h00
Monday 21 july : 10h – 16h00 (bank holiday in Belgium)

Seminar fee:
60€/day
2 days = 110€
3 days = 150€

Registration can be done by bank account :
SEAMA asbl : 001-6326993-50
IBAN : BE86 0016 3269 9350
BIC : GEBABEBB

Location:
SPORTCITY : Avenue Salomé 2, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre (BRUSSELS)
Flavio

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KALIS ILUSTRISIMO WORLD TOUR en Madrid, España

https://www.facebook.com/events/964908103648925/?fref=ts

KALIS ILUSTRISIMO WORLD TOUR en Madrid, España

¡OPORTUNIDAD UNICA!

Los Maestros, Guro Peachie Baron y Guro Narzo Arnold; herederos de Kalis Ilustrisimo, bajo el Gran Maestro Tony Diego, visitarán Madrid, el día 26 y 27 de Julio 2014.

Por primera vez en España los Herederos de Kalis Ilustrisimo impartirán un curso de fin de semana del Arte Marcial Filipino… Kalis Ilustrisimo.

El Gran Maestro Antonio Tatang Ilustrisimo, fundador del arte, fue imbatido durante toda su vida en combates a muerte con armas de filo en Filipinas.

Cabe destacar la fuerte influencia del Arte Marcial Español de Espada y Daga perdido en la historia. Es un momento para redescubrir un legado con influencias de artes de combate españolas.

Organiza Kapisanang Mandirigma España
Lameco-Kalis Ilustrisimo Group Madrid “La Tribu”
www.kali-jeetkunedo.com

Plazas Limitadas
90 euros por persona
precios especiales para grupos de cinco
días 26 y 27 de Julio

Kapisanang Mandirigma Las Vegas Presents presents Guro Dino Flores and Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Ilustrisimo & Lameco Eskrima. Las Vegas, Nevada, Saturday, May 31st, 2014

Kapisanang Mandirigma Las Vegas Presents presents Guro Dino Flores and Guro Ariel Flores Mosses Seminar in Ilustrisimo & Lameco Eskrima. Las Vegas, Nevada, Saturday, May 31st, 2014

 

update

 

 

Guro Dino and Guro Ariel have been training partners since the 1980′s. They first began teaching seminars together in the 1990′s in Wahington State, Oregon, Nevada and California.

About Guro Ariel:

Guro Ariel F. Mosses has over 30 years of Filipino Martial Arts experience. He has trained under Filipino Hall of Fame Grand Master Conrad A. Manaois, the late Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite, and Grand Master Christopher Ricketts of Kali Ilustrisimo. Guro Mosses is the Vice President and Chief Instructor for Manaois Systems International. He holds a 7th degree in Kali Jukune Do. Guro Ariel is a member of Kapisanang Mandirigma. He has experience as a professional bodyguard and is a former police officer. Guro Ariel is currently teaching at LV Tactical Training in Las Vegas, Nevada.

 

About Guro Dino:

Guro Dino trained for many years with Grandmaster Conrad A. Manaois in Ninoy Cinco Teros Arnis and Master Henry Bio in Sikaran Arnis in the 1980′s along with his cousins Ariel Flores Mosses and Choy Flores. In the early 1990′s he was accepted as an initial member of Punong Guro Edgar Sulites’ newly forming Backyard Group AKA the Sulite Oriehenal Group

At the recommendation of Punong Guro Sulite, Guro Dino first visited Master Christopher Ricketts in the Philippines in 1995 and was introduced to his perspective on the Warrior Arts.  Since the passing of Punong Guro Sulite,  he has continuously train in Kali Ilustrisimo Under Master Christopher Ricketts, who gave Guro Dino permission to teach his method before his passing. Guro Dino was the Lameco representative for Master Ricketts and a member of Bakbakan Philippines sponsored by Master Ricketts. Guro Dino continues his training in Master Ricketts method of training with his two sons, the young Masters Bruce and Guro Brandon Ricketts. Masters Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts are now officially the head of the late Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts “Ilustrisimo” organization which strives to preserve the purity of the art.

Guro Dino additionally had good fortune to experience training in Kali Ilustrisimo with Dodong Sta. Iglesia, Grandmaster Rey Galang, Grandmaster Yuli Romo and Grandmaster Tony Diego. He also trained in Kali Ilustrisimo with one of his training partners and fellow Lameco Backyard member Guro Hans Tan, who was certified to teach Kali Ilustrsimo under Master Tony Diego.Additionally Guro Dino trained privately for several years in California and the Philippines with Professor Ireneo L. Olavides in Eskrima De Campo JDC-IO.

Guro Dino also cites the importance of his training partners in Lameco SOG and Kapisanang Mandirigma in his growth. After the passing of Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, certain members of the Lameco Backyard group reformed also became know as Kapisanang Mandirigma. The group regularly continued  training, sparring, experimenting and seeking the deeper roots of their chosen arts. This group includes Guros Joel Adriatico, Hospecio “Bud” Balani Jr., Mar Elepaño, Choy Flores, Arnold Noche, Gary Quan, Hans Anton Tan and Pantaleon “Mang Leo” Revilles, Jr. (RIP). With frequent visits by Guro Lowell Pueblos, Guro Bong Hebia and honorary member Guro Ariel Flores Mosses.

 

Ariel & Me BW

Master Christopher Ricketts and Bakbakan Philippines doing Ilustrisimo on TV Show – 2005.

Master Christopher Ricketts and Bakbakan Philippines doing Ilustrisimo on TV Show.
Master Ricketts is assisted by Bruce Ricketts, Dodong Sta. Iglesia, Miguel Zubiri, Doran Sordo, Brandon Ricketts, Monsour del Rosario and other members of Bakbakan Philippines. Shot at Olympians Taekwondo Training Center (OTTC) in Fort Bonifacio, Manila, Philippines. 2005.

 

 

Master Christopher Ricketts on TV

Kalis Ilustrisimo Seminar with Arnold Narzo and Peachie Baron-Saguin. June 21-22 in Seminar in Denver, Colorado, USA

Kalis Ilustrisimo in Colorado!!!!

June 21-29, 2014
Denver and Estes Park, Colorado.

Kapatiran Mandirigma is proud to announce the only appearance in the United States for Kalis Ilustrisimo Senior Instructors Arnold Narzo and Peachie Baron-Saguin. They are direct students of the Living Legend in the Philippines, Grandmaster Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo.

Grandmaster Tony Diego is the top disciple of Grandmaster Antonio ‘Tatang’ Ilustrisimo and is continuing Tatang’s legacy through his Kalis Ilustrisimo Repeticion Orehenal.

Do not miss this once in a lifetime chance to train with a legend!

We are hosting a week’s worth of training in Colorado.

June 21-22. 2 Day Seminar in Denver.
Everyone is welcome to attend. Beginners or experts.
Cost – Pre-Registration. $150 for 2 days and $90 for one day. Pre-Registration is Deadline May 17th.
After May 17th, $180 for 2 days, $110 for one day.
Location – Northglenn Rec Center. http://goo.gl/maps/cepWE
Time – 9am-4pm with a one hour lunch.

June 23-25. Private Training during the week
GM Tony and his assistants will train you in a small group, or privately. Openings are limited, so please reserve your spot soon. We will have two days worth of private lessons in Denver and one day in Longmont. Locations of the private training will be announced to those who reserve spots.
Cost – $150 for a 4-5 hour session.

June 27-29. Kapatiran Mandirigma Camp in Estes Park.
Please go here for the official Event Page -> https://www.facebook.com/events/443936922405914/

KM will host their yearly camp in Estes Park. This year, we will have Peachie Baron and Arnold Narzo teaching. We will also have a few special guest instructors.
The camp is held on private land with cabins with bunk beds, lodge house with kitchen and entertainment area and acres of wilderness to explore.
The camp is only a few minutes from old town Estes Park and many hotels and lodges.
Camp lodging is limited to 25 persons. Camp attendance is limited to 40 persons.
Location and schedule will be provided to those who reserve a spot.
Cost – Pre-Registration. $180 for the whole camp. (which includes lodging, training and meals). $100 for Saturday only. Pre-Registration Deadline is May 17th.
After May 17th, $220 for the whole camp and $110 for Saturday.

If you attend both the Denver Seminar and the KM Camp, you will receive a 10% Discount.

For more information, please email Shelley Millspaugh at sanduko@gmail.com

We are only taking payments by Paypal or Money Order.
To send your payment through Paypal, send to dan@theacademyofma.com with a description of what you are paying for (seminar, privates, camp).
If sending a Money Order, please make it out to ‘The Academy of martial Arts” and send to:
Dan Lowman
20210 West Sycamore Drive
Spring Hill, KS 66083

Sponsored by Kapatiran Mandirigma, U.T.A.M.A. and Archipelago Sandata.

 

WWW.MANDIRIGMA.ORG 1

 

WWW.MANDIRIGMA.ORG 2

Fundraiser for Master Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo, July 2013

master Tony Diego, mater tony diego, ilustrisimo, kalis ilustrisimo, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com, master Tony Diego, mater tony diego, ilustrisimo, kalis ilustrisimo, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com, master Tony Diego, mater tony diego, ilustrisimo, kalis ilustrisimo, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, kali, arnis, eskrima, escrima, www.mandirigma.org, www.backyardeskrima.com

 

 

Greetings friends,

We are seeking assistance for Master Tony Diego of Kalis Ilustrisimo.

Master Diego’s wife has breast cancer and has just had surgery for the second time. Sadly, even with surgery it has spread and costly chemotherapy is required. Master Diego is retired from work and has no medical or retirement benefits, so any amount donated will be very much appreciated and put to good use.

If you would like to donate you can contact Dino at: mandirigma.org@gmail.com
or you can contact Peachie Baron at:  peachiebaron@facebook.com

The Films of Bakbakan Philippines member Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines

The Films of  Bakbakan Philippines member Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines ilustrisimo bakbakab

The Films of  Bakbakan Philippines member Ronnie Ricketts and the Warrior Arts of the Philippines

Ronnie Ricketts is an actor, film producer and film director in the Philippine Movie and Film Industry. What is less commonly know is that he is a martial artist expert and a Master instructor in the Martial Arts group, Bakbakan International. He is currently the Chairman of the Optical Media Board (OMB), a Philippine Government Agency, which combats piracy of films, music, computer games and software.

Ronnie in versed in several forms on Martial arts including the Filipino Warrior Art Kali Ilustrisimo. Ronnie is the brother of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts the founder of the Martial Arts Brotherhood – Bakbakan International. Several of Ronnie’s films feature the Martial Arts including the Warrior Arts of the Philippines generally know as Kali, Arnis or Eskrima. Bakbakan Members frequently appear in Ronnies movies.

The-Fighting-Chefs ronnie ricketts bakbakan

Ronnies latest movie “The Fighting Chefs”. Some scenes feature the Philippines Martial Arts performed by himself and his nephews Bruce and Brandon Ricketts. Bruce and Brandon are Martial Arts experts and instructors in Kali Ilustrisimo.

bakbakan 2 ricketts ilustrisimo bakbakan 1 ricketts ilustrisimo bakbakan 3 ricketts ilustrisimo.jpg

Behind the scence for the movie “The Fighting Chefs. Ronnie with nephews Bruce and Brandons rehearsing some Ilustrisimo Filipino Martial Arts moves for the scene.

 

bakbakan philippines master christopher ricketts ronnie ricketts sagasa ilustrisimo

Ronnie with his brother, Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts.

mano mano 3 the lost art ricketts ilustrisimo

Poster for Mano Mano 3: The Lost Art.

 

Ronnie Ricketts Filmography

    • 2013 The Fighting Chefs
    • 2007 One Percent Full
    • 2006 Lagot Ka Sa Kuya Ko
    • 2005 Uno
    • 2004 Mano Mano 3: Arnis The Lost Art
    • 2003 Utang Ng Ama – Director (Uncredited)
    • 2003 Dayo
    • 2001 Mano Mano 2: Ubusan Ng Lakas
    • 1999 Ang Boyfriend Kong Pari
    • 1999 Desperado, Bahala Na Ang Itaas
    • 1998 May Sayad
    • 1998 My Guardian Debil
    • 1998 Kamandag Ko Ang Papatay Sa ‘Yo (Released Date: 4 February 1998)
    • 1998 Anting-Anting
    • 1997 Emong Salvacion
    • 1997 Ilaban Mo Bayan Ko
    • 1997 Wala Ka Ng Puwang Sa Mundo (Released Date: 22 October 1997)
    • 1996 Kahit Sa Bala Kakapit Ako (Released Date: 9 October 1996)
    • 1996 Hawak Ko Buhay Mo (Released Date: 25 September 1996)
    • 1996 Madaling Mamatay, Mahirap Mabuhay (Released Date: 22 May 1996)
    • 1995 Huwag Mong Isuko Ang Laban (Released Date: 25 December 1995) to (1995 MMFF)
    • 1995 Mano Mano
    • 1995 Angel On Fire
    • 1995 Ultimate Revenge
    • 1995 Matinik Na Kalaban (Released Date: 8 November 1995)
    • 1994 Matira Ang Matibay (Released Date: 22 June 1994)
    • 1993 Maton (Directed by: TOTO NATIVIDAD) (Released Date: 24 November 1993)
    • 1993 Pambato (Released Date: 6 October 1993)
    • 1993 Ikaw Lang (Released Date: 25 August 1993)
    • 1993 Alejandro ‘Diablo’ Malubay (Released Date: 26 May 1993)
    • 1992 Boy Recto (Released Date: 25 December 1992) to (1992 MMFF)
    • 1992 Basagulero (Released Date: 14 October 1992)
    • 1992 Dalawa man ang Buhay mo Pagsasabayin ko (Released Date: 12 August 1992)
    • 1992 Aguila At Guerrero (Released Date: 22 July 1992)
    • 1992 True Confessions (Evelyn, Myrna, & Margie)
    • 1992 Zei Fa Wei Long
    • 1991 Ganti Ng Api
    • 1991 Kumukulong Dugo
    • 1991 Anak ng Dagat
    • 1990 Baril ko ang Uusig (Released Date: 14 November 1990)
    • 1990 Isa-Isahin Ko Kayo (Released Date: 6 June 1990)
    • 1990 Kakampi Ko Ang Diyos (Released Date: 8 May 1990)
    • 1989 My Darling Domestic (Greyt Eskeyp)
    • 1989 Black Sheep Baby (Released Date: 22 November 1989)
    • 1989 UZI Brothers (Released Date: 27 September 1989)
    • 1989 Uzi Brothers 9mm (Released Date: 9 August 1989)
    • 1989 Tatak Ng Isang Api (Released Date: 26 April 1989)
    • 1989 Gapos Gang (Released Date: 22 March 1989)
    • 1988 Alex Boncayao Brigade: The Liquidation Arm Of The Npa
    • 1988 Kumakasa, Kahit Nag-iisa
    • 1988 Tumayo Ka’t Lumaban
    • 1988 Target: Maganto
    • 1987 The Rookies And The Mighty Kids
    • 1987 Mga Agila Ng Arkong Bato
    • 1987 Ambush
    • 1987 Target Sparrow Unit
    • 1987 Cabarlo
    • 1987 Kamandag Ng Kris
    • 1986 Payaso
    • 1986 Nakagapos Na Puso
    • 1986 Agaw Armas
    • 1986 Bodyguard: Masyong Bagwisa Jr.
    • 1986 I Love You Mama, I Love You Papa
    • 1986 The Graduates
    • 1986 John En Marsha ’86 TNT Sa America
    • 1986 Dongalo Massacre
    • 1985 The Crazy Professor
    • 1985 Heated Vengeance
    • 1984 Sa Hirap At Ginhawa
    • 1983 Love Birds
    • 1983 I Love You, I Hate You
    • 1982 Good Morning, Professor

1982 My Heart Belongs To Daddy

Directed by Ronnie Ricketts

Rumble Boy (2007)
Lagot ka sa kuya ko (2006) (as Ronn Rick) … aka Isusumbong kita sa kuya ko
(Uno (2005) (as Ronn Rick)
Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004) (as Ronn Rick)
Dayo (2003) (as Ronn Rick)
Boyfriend kong pari, Ang (1999) (as Ronn Rick)
Boy Buluran (1997) (as Ronn Rick)
Wala ka nang puwang sa mundo (1997) (as Ronn Rick)
Madaling mamatay, mahirap mabuhay (1996) (as Ronn Rick)

Produced:
Lagot ka sa kuya ko (2006) … aka Isusumbong kita sa kuya ko (Philippines: Tagalog title)
Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004) (producer)

Wrote:
Mano Mano 3: Arnis, the Lost Art (2004)
Huwag mong isuko ang laban (1996) (as Ronn Rick)

 

http://www.naldoricketts.com/rockets.html

Rockets ronnie ricketts bakbakan sagasa kickboxing ilustrisimo

Laban Laro – Invitation Only Sparring, June 22nd. Aranda/Ricketts Memorial Gym

Laban Laro – Invitation Only Sparring, June 22nd. Aranda/Ricketts Memorial Gym

An Event Honoring the Sparring Tradition Founded by the Five Pillars of Ilustrisimo and the Original Bakbakan Philippines.

Participating Organizations: Bakbakan Philippines – USA HQ,  Ilustrisimo USA, Lameco SOG, Kapisanang Mandirigma.

Event Supervised by: Guro Brandon Ricketts, Guro Bud Balani, Guro Ariel Flores Mosses,  Guro Dino Flores.

 

Laban Laro, GM Ricketts, PG Sulite, kali, kalis, eskrima, escrima, arnis, ilustrisimo, lameco, bakbakan, kapisanang mandirigma, www.backyardeskrima.com, www.mandirigma.org, guro dino flores

The FMA Informative publishes Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts Memorial Seminar Special Issue, March 2013

The FMA Informative publishes Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts Memorial Seminar Special Issue, March 2013

The FMA Informative was very lucky to be able through the cooperation of Guro Dino Flores to be able to bring just a hint of the knowledge that was put forth and the skills that were demonstrated on March 16 and 17, 2013.
At the Lameco S.O.G and Kali Ilustrisimo Memorial Seminar the instructors were the dedicated instructors of Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts. They were: Guro Dino Flores, Guro Bud Balani, Guro David Gould, Guro Bong Hebia, Guro Ariel Flores Mosses, and the son of Master Christopher Ricketts Guro Brandon Ricketts.
First you will read about the participant Dr. Bryan Stoops reflections on his experience in the 12 Week Backyard Lameco Eskrima course and the 2 day Lameco S.O.G and Ilustrisimo Eskrima Seminar.
Then on another aspect Guro David Gould his thoughts on the 2nd Lameco Eskrima “SOG” Memorial Seminar held in Los Angeles, California.

Visit www.fmainformative.info and download a copy.

Download a copy – www.fmainformative.info/Informative_Issues/2013/FMA_Informative-Issue68.pdf

The FMA Informative publishes Punong Guro Edgar G. Sulite and Master Christopher Ricketts Memorial Seminar Special Issue, March 2013, kali kalis eskrima escrima arnis

The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar with Guro Dino Flores in Mexico, April 2013

The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar with Guro Dino Flores in Mexico, April 2013

http://wingchunkuenoriginal.blogspot.mx/2015/08/guro-dino-flores-mexico_16.html?spref=fb

Muy pronto tendremos la visita de mi Instructor de Kali Ilustrísimo, Guro Dino Florence, es una muy buena oportunidad para conocer el sistema de Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrísimo y profundizar nuestro conocimiento en Lameco Eskrima.

En Lameco Eskrima, una parte importante del currículum de cuchillo, espada, así cómo espada y daga viene del sistema Ilustrísimo, por tanto el conocimiento directo del sistema nos permite comprender las raíces de Lameco Eskrima tal y cómo PG EdgarSulite las concibió.

 

Guro Dino Flores Mexico 2013 kali arnis eskrima FMA Ilustrisimo Lameco Kapisanang Mandirigma

 

kali arnis eskrima kali arnis eskrima kali arnis eskrima kali arnis eskrima kali arnis eskrima kali arnis eskrima

 

Combat academy cuernavaca kali arnis eskrima Ilustrisimo lameco kapisanang mandirigma

The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar arte marcial The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar arte marcial

 

wing chun The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar arte marcial wing chun The Combat Academy, Arte Marcial Filipino and Yip Pui Wing Chun presents a Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar arte marcial

Kapisanang Mandirigma Germany presents Seminar with Guro Dino Flores in Frankfurt, Germany. May 18 & 19, 2013

kapisanang mandirigma germany lameco ilustrisimo kali arnis eskrima fma

Kali Ilustrisimo & Lameco Eskrima – Seminar mit Guro Dino Flores/USA
presented by Kapisanang Mandirigma Germany
sponsored by JuWe-Sticks ;-)

Das Seminar bildet die Grundlage für ein tieferes Verständnis des Kali Ilustrisimo (CNR) und des Lameco Eskrima (SOG) .

Thema wird sein:

Kali Ilustrisimo (Single & Double Blade) – Lameco Eskrima (Single & Double Stick)

Laßt euch die Gelegenheit Kali Ilustrisimo von einem der wenigen zertifizierten Instruktoren unter Master Christopher Ricketts sowie Punong Guro Edgar. G. Sulite zu lernen nicht entgehen.

KOSTEN: 1 Tag 55€ – 2 Tage 100€ bei Zahlung vor 01.05.2013, danach plus 10€ Nachmeldegebühr

Bei Nichterscheinen verfällt die bereits gezahlte Seminargebühr.
Der Veranstalter übernimmt für Personen- und Sachschäden keinerlei Haftung.

Die Teilnahme erfolgt auf eigenes Risiko!

S.E.A.M.A. and Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar with Guro Dino Flores in Brussels, Belgium, May 11 & 12, 2013

S.E.A.M.A. and Kapisanang Mandirigma Seminar with Guro Dino Flores in Brussels, Belgium, May 11 & 12, 2013

2013+dino+flores+seminar lameco ilustrisimo kali arnis eskrima s.e.a.m.a. 2013+dino+flores+seminar lameco ilustrisimo kali arnis eskrima s.e.a.m.a.

Participant Dr. Bryan Stoops reflects on his experience in the 12 Week Backyard Lameco Eskrima course and the two day Lameco S.O.G and Ilustrisimo Reunion Seminar. March 2013

Participant Dr. Bryan Stoops reflects on his experience in the 12 Week Backyard Lameco Eskrima course and the 2 day Lameco S.O.G and Ilustrisimo Reunion Seminar.

***

For 12 weeks, I had been taking an introductory class in Lameco Escrima with Guro Dino Flores in Southern California. The classes were conducted in the same backyard in which many of the late Punong Guro Edgar Sulite’s select students would train when there was no scheduled class. With just under a decade of FMA training under my belt, and some certifications from well-known names, I was impressed (and a little shocked) with how demanding the training was in terms of getting everything just right, down to the smallest detail, without those minor details becoming trivial. Guro Dino wants the best out of and for his students.

I missed a few of the classes due to other commitments to some of my other instructors (and one day because the babysitter was sick), but I was able to attend a good percentage of the classes. There were a handful of other dedicated students also taking the class. I tend to give my instructors my best when I have a little time with them, and I feel comfortable (when I’m uncomfortable, I know I have the tendency to move a little stiffly), so getting to know my instructor a little better and getting to know my fellow students helped me really enjoy my training.

Along with rich, progressive, physical training, Guro Dino also had great stories about PG Sulite, the late Master Christopher “Topher” Ricketts, and Grand Master Ilustrisimo. Part of the work of Guro Dino and his Mandirigma Research Organization is to preserve the legacy of his instructors and their systems of martial arts. I have dedicated a great deal of my time, money, and energy to the martial arts, particularly the Filipino Martial Arts, so to be involved in that preservation (even in a very small way), felt very humbling and at the same time important. I was glad I could be there to take the class and take on a basic understanding of the life’s work of those instructors who are no longer with us.

A few weeks before the end of the 12 week class, Guro Dino notified his students that there would be a special Lameco and Ilustrisimo seminar to be held in the backyard on Saturday, March 16th (right after our last class of the 12 week session) and at another location in Glendale on Sunday the 17th. I signed up for both days fairly quickly after receiving notice of the event, as the seminar struck me as a great opportunity to train with some excellent people, and a wonderful way to celebrate the completion of the 12 week class.

On Saturday, March 16th, we gathered in the backyard for our last class, and the seminar immediately following. The collective knowledge of the presenters/instructors was pretty amazing. Guro Dave Gould opened the seminar with a warm-up focused on footwork. Guro Dave had everyone huffing and puffing. After the warm-up, all of the presenters had an opportunity to teach. I’ll go instructor by instructor, and share my impressions:

Guro Dino Flores – In discussing Guro Dino’s style/teaching with others, my comment was usually something like, “Guro Dino wants everything picture perfect, which makes you (the participant) really focus on your form, and exact, specific details.” It’s refreshing to come into systems that force you to slow down and not let your ego get in the way. Guro Dino always has a logical progression to what he teaches. Guro Dino presented some single stick material the first day and double sword material the second day.

Guro Bud Balani – It’s always productive to see an overview of how a system approaches disarms. On the first day, Guro Bud presented several stick disarms from both the forehand and backhand sides. Many of the disarms led to stick-assisted chokes, or joint locks. Guro Bud has a very straight forward, no-nonsense style to both the techniques and his teaching style. I’m sure everyone in attendance left with at least one or two new disarms to explore. I had to miss Guro Bud’s session on day 2 (which I’ll explain).

Guro Dave Gould– Guro Dave presented a progressive approach to single blade versus single blade on Saturday. Guro Dave strikes me as one of those scary people: a big person who moves with the speed and deliberateness of a small person, with all of the benefits that come from being big and strong. I enjoyed the manner in which he sequenced the material. Unfortunately, I had to miss Guro Dave’s session on Sunday.

Guro Bong Hebia – On both Saturday and Sunday, Guro Bong was on the verge of almost apologizing for teaching such a small block of material over the two days, but I was really taken with what he had to show us (four knife hold-up counters, three for gun, and an empty hand progression that made a lot of sense). There is nothing wrong with having a focus, and with Guro Bong, we were very focused on those particular techniques. Guro Bong kept telling us stories about how he had to run single movements of the techniques over and over with PG Sulite.

Guro Brandon Ricketts– What a difficult position to find yourself in: Your father is revered by many, and upon his passing, you’re thrust into a leadership position in your father’s system. I found Guro Brandon to be very relaxed and easy-going, which made learning from him very enjoyable. I have overheard Guro Dino mention that Guro Brandon is involved in some kind of dance group in his free time; the dance influence is very evident in the graceful nature of Guro Brandon’s movement. Getting to train with Guro Brandon both days felt like a unique opportunity for which I was very grateful.

Guro Ariel Flores Mosses – Unfortunately I had to leave and I did not get the opportunity to train in this segment.

I live just about 40 miles inland of the area of Los Angeles in which the seminar was held. The first day, I left my home around 10 am and got home around 9 PM. My wife told me that my three-year-old daughter had been asking where I was all day. On Sunday, we took a break after having trained for about 5 hours. I realized that in two days, I had gotten in about 13 hours of training, and I wanted to go home and get in some time with my children before the weekend ended. As I drove home, I had the sense that I had been part of a very special class and a very special seminar.

My martial arts training was hit and miss when I was younger. I did three years of Tae Kwon Do, stopped for years, and then three years of Shaolin Kempo in college. I always read martial arts magazines from the time I was about 7, and I was always fascinated by the FMA’s. The first FMA VHS tape I ever bought just happens to be PG Edgar’s single stick tape from Unique Publications. I bought it while I was teaching Kempo in my early 20’s. One day I brought in the one Kali stick I had bought with the video tape to the Kempo School. My head instructor asked me what I was doing, and I told him I was going to try and teach what I had been researching. I was shut down, but I spent a lot of time watching that VHS tape over and over.

Years later, to be involved with Guro Marc “Crafty Dog” Denny and the Dog Brothers and to have Guro Inosanto say so many nice things about PG Edgar, I’ve always felt drawn to Lameco. I teach some of the Lameco that Guro Crafty has put into the DBMA system in my FMA Phase curriculum, and Lameco 3 through 6 (single stick patterns) have always been a major part of my single stick game (most of my students are used to my catching them with redondos in sparring). PG Edgar is in the top five of my list of people with whom I wish I could have trained (in fact, he used to do seminars at Sifu/Guro Bud Thompson’s school, my first Kali/JKD school) before their passing.

Throughout both days of the seminar, 8 by 10 pictures of PG Sulite and Master Ricketts were on a nearby table. The presence of the pictures was not morbid, nor was it overly reverent. The presenters clearly were in good spirits to be representing their teachers, and to all be together. Looking at the instructors spending time together made me think of my martial arts family, people spread all over the world that I get to see a few times a year that I feel closer to than some of my blood relatives. Martial arts are about people discovering the best versions of themselves. I feel lucky to have been at the seminar with such an authentic group of people.

***

Guro Doctor Bryan Stoops is a certified instructor of the Filipino Martial Arts in the Inosanto/LaCoste System under Guro Dan Inosanto, and Sifu/Guro Bud Thompson (one of Guro Inosanto’s “Old School” Full Instructors from the original Kali Academy). Guro Bryan is also a full Dog Brother (“Guide Dog”) with 49 career Dog Brothers stick fights, and an official Teacher of Dog Brothers Martial Arts under Guro Marc “Crafty Dog” Denny. Guro Bryan also represents Master Virgil Cavada as a certified Module 1 Instructor in the Applied Eskrima Method of Balintawak.

Outside of the FMA’s, Bryan also teaches Jeet Kune Do, (under Sifu‘s Inosanto and Thompson) Thai Boxing (Master Chai), Wing Chun (Sifu Francis Fong), Savate (Professor Nic Saignac), Mixed Grappling (Professor Roy Harris), and Maphilindo Silat (Guro Insoanto). Bryan Stoops has taught public high school in southern California for the past ten years. His master’s degree project was a DVD designed to help new K-12 teachers use the philosophy of Jeet Kune Do to become functional in the classroom. Bryan earned his Doctor of Education Degree from the University of La Verne in 2011.

Guro Bruce Ricketts selected as the new Chief Instructor of Master Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo Organization and Bakbakan Philippines, 2011

Guro Bruce Ricketts selected as the new Chief Instructor of Master Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo Organization and Bakbakan Philippines, 2011

In 2011 Guro Bruce Ricketts was formally selected as the new Chief Instructor of Master Christopher Ricketts Ilustrisimo Organization and Bakbakan Philippines. The official ceremony was held  in Manila, Philippines. During the same ceremony Guro Brandon Ricketts was promoted to the the position as Second in Command to Guro Bruce Ricketts. Also selected was the Administrative Board which includes Guro Ronnie Ricketts, Guro Alex Ricketts and Guro Jason Ricketts. The organization is dedicated to maintaining the legacy of Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts. The Advisory Board was also selected.

Guro Bruce Ricketts and Guro Brandon Ricketts trained under their Father, Grandmaster Christopher Ricketts since they could walk. The training room in their Philippine home was located in front of their bedroom. Daily exposure to the arts was the norm. Besides daily training with their Father and other students, many masters spent time training in their home. To name a few, legends such as Master Roland Dantes, Master Rey Galang, Master Yuli Romo, Punong Guro Edgar Sulite, Master Tony Diego and none other than Grandmaster Ilustrisimo himself would train there. The technical and fighting skill of these young Guro’s clearly reflect their esteemed lineage. Guro Bruce and Guro Brandon are also accomplished practitioners of Bakbakan Sagasa Kickboxing, Ngo Cho Kun, Jiu-Jitsu and Boxing.

 

More Information at: http://ilustrisimo-usa.com/

Short Interview with Grandmaster “Yuli” Romo, Bahad Zubu, May 25th, 2008

Short Interview with Grandmaster “Yuli” Romo, Bahad Zubu

bahad zubu kali kalis arnis eskrima escrima fma, master yuli romo, ilustrisimo

 

INTERVIEW WITH GRANDMASTER “YULI” ROMO

Interview conducted at: DAHIKAN WHITE BEACH RESORT, PILAR, CAMOTES, CEBU, PHILIPPINE ARCHIPELAGO, MAY 25TH, 2008

Q:   How is Bahad Zubu different from other Martial Arts?

YR:

I have researched and restored the ancient Filipino Fighting arts of the Philippine Archipelago. “Fighting Arts” is different from “Martial Arts”. The Filipino warriors of ancient times didn’t know what was 1,2,3 or a,b,c but they knew how to fight like a cat knows how to be a cat.

“Martial” to me means something rigid and prescriptive. Bahad Zubu is intuitive and natural. It is not a “Mixed” martial art that employs different “techniques” at different ranges. Nor does it have any un-natural stances just “Situational Footwork”. Step in, Step Out. Kompass 1 (right foot), compass 2 (left foot). That’s it.

Q:    How is it possible to teach the art of Bahad Zubu in just 20 sessions?

YR:

Generic basics and proper learning and understanding.

All we need is forehand and backhand, Compass 1 and Compass 2, touch and un-touch. These simple basics. Of course, we need correct balance, posture and co-ordination. For example the 3 different levels upper (neck / chest), middle (hips) and bottom (legs, heels / toes) need to move as one.

Before there were no gyms, clubs or instructors. “Proper Learning” is done by observation. “Proper Understanding” is having a friend to check you and practice with. Without “Proper Learning” you can not have “Proper Understanding” and vice versa.

Bahad Zubu is a very natural fighting art. It is not taught like the common group era or by mass practice. It is taught 1 on 1 by intuitive interactive drills.

Q:   How can you learn to “Control the fight”?

YR:

With simple basics you can fight. Of course, you need tactics to be able to handle the fight. Bahad Zubu is a “Situational and multiple distractive tactics”. You must bait your opponent. Things like dis-arms are all just options. Everything that happens in the fight is unexpected and intuitive so you must practice the basics.

Simple basics – most advanced!

Q   Why do you think many people practice “Un-Natural” Martial Arts?

YR:
I hink their minds are poisoned like the serpent in the garden of Eden. We are not tigers, snakes, cranes, etc, etc. We are the top animal. The most evolved. So their mind is confused. For me these arts are good for entertainment but not for the challenge of combat. Unfortunately these “un-natural” arts are the most common.

Q   :     A student from another group invites one of your students to spar. How should  your student re-act?

YR:    That is the time to test our individual skill.

In Bahad Zubu we do not have padded sticks and helmets for sparring. We spar with live sticks. At the end of the 80’s and in the 90’s my Kali Parmatukan group competed in WEKAF tournaments and won a stack of medals. Now we just use padded sticks for practice. Obviously if we practice with live sticks we will not be able to train due to the injuries caused.

Once you have all that padding on it stops being a “Fighting Art” and becomes a sport. Also, there are certain strikes you can not perform with a padded stick due to it not being rigid. So, if anybody wants to spar with “live” stick that is good for our group.

From: www.bahadzubughq.com

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Grandmaster Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo’s last interview conducted by Steven Drape, July 29, 1997

Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo’s last interview before his death.

Conducted by Steven Drape, a teacher of San Miguel Eskrima under Urbano “Banoy” Borja who was a student of Momoy Canette.

This interview was conducted with Grandmaster Antonio “Tatang” Ilustrisimo, along with his senior students Antonio Diego and Christopher Ricketts, on 29 July1997 in Manila, Philippines. At the time of the interview, GM Ilustrisimo had been ill for several weeks, so he was weak and had some difficulty talking.   (As it turned out, his illness became worse and he eventually passed away in the fall of 1997.)  We were accompanied by a live-in companion, who helped serve as a translator for some of the Grandmaster’s answers.
GM Ilustrisimo lives in one of the toughest sections of Manila, near the docks. He was a merchant seaman for 35 years, and has spent most of his life in this same area. As an example of the respect people here give to this living legend, the story is told of a gang fight between a local Manila gang and a group of men who had come to Manila from the Visayan islands for work. At the height of the melee, with many men involved in the fight, “Tatang” walked right through the middle of the spot and everyone stopped fighting to let him pass. He is one of those rare men where legend may actually match reality.
This interview was conducted for Australasian Fighting Arts Magazine (AFAM).

AFAM: Erle Montaigue met you and wrote an article in AFAM in 1981. He told me that he was very impressed with you and your art. Have any of your training methods changed since 1981?
GM Ilustrisimo:  The principles of the art have not changed, so of course it is the same.
AFAM: When you began teaching your students, like Tony Diego, you had certain ideas as to what they would learn by now. Have they reached your expectations?
GM Ilustrisimo:   Yeah! Tony has been with me for a long time, since 1975. If you want to train with me, you must learn the old way. When we train, I will hit your hands, many times, so you learn. You must take the pain to learn.
AFAM:   Tony Diego, you’ve been with GM Ilustrisimo for more than 20 years. Have you been satisfied with your training in the Art, and with “Tatang”?

Tony Diego: At first, he wouldn’t teach me. He said that the Art was only for fighting. I kept asking and finally he accepted me. I’ve been very satisfied. I have never felt that I wanted to change, or stop training. At one time, I was a little frustrated, though, and I asked “Tatang” why I couldn’t be more like him (in his ability). He simply answered, “You are you, you are not me.” Everyone learns in a
different way, so you must be satisfied with the result that you get. You can never be exactly the same as your teacher.
AFAM: Do you feel like you have mastered everything the grandmaster has to teach? Tony Diego:  Once I asked “Tatang” if he had taught me everything, if I had the complete system. He replied, “When a guest comes to your house and you give him food, you always give him the rice from the top of the pan. It’s the best rice that everyone likes to eat, but you save for yourself the rice from the bottom of the pan. There it has become hard and crusty.” I think that means that he taught me everything he could teach, but that there are things that he still has that are not teachable. Things that come from a person’s experiences in life.
AFAM:   Tony, you will retire from your job in a few years. Do you think that you will take on more students, expand your teaching?
Tony Diego: No, I don’t think so. I have several students who have been with me for many years. Probably they will take over the job of carrying on, of passing on Kali Ilustrisimo.
AFAM: GM Ilustrisimo, your style of arnis impresses as one of the most natural for self-defense. Are your views still the same in that this Art should only be used for self-defense using straight-forward methods instead of more flowery techniques?

GM Ilustrisimo: The fancy stuff in arnis, all the flowery movements, is only for stage shows and demonstrations, not for real fighting.
AFAM: What is your advice to students who would wish to take up arnis nowadays in the Western world? It seems that today, the old ways of learning are fading, and more and more students want to learn tournament styles.
GM Ilustrisimo: Arnis is simple- 1-2-3 (demonstrating a 3-strike combination in the air). The tournament styles are different, not really arnis.
AFAM: How long do you feel a student needs to train to learn arnis, how many years?
GM Ilustrisimo: Only two weeks, you can master the techniques! Arnis is simple-   1-2-3 !
AFAM:   Two weeks!?
GM Ilustrisimo: Study with me one hour every day and you can learn how to fight for tournaments. My students usually win in the tournaments. Remember, though, that training for tournaments is not training for real fighting. Wearing armor is bad for the Art, students don’t learn well.
AFAM: Have your methods changed much as you have grown older?
GM Ilustrisimo: When fighting, you only adjust to your opponent, to what he does. As you get older, you must still adjust. Maybe you do something differently than when you were younger, but it is just an adjustment to the situation. Age is just one part of the situation.

AFAM:   Does that mean that the inevitable physical decline that comes with age can be compensated for? Does someone’s increasing skill and experience make up for declining physical ability?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes!

(To illustrate this point, when Tony Diego first introduced me to “Tatang”, he
playfully attacked him. The grandmaster was holding two canes at the time, one to
help him walk and a shorter rattan. Even though he does not see well any more, and
he is 90 years of age, his reaction to even the playful attack was immediate, very
fast and obviously exactly right to defend himself if the attack had been real. A
very impressive introduction to the grandmaster!)

AFAM:   Let’s change directions now. In your lifetime, who were the best arnis players you can remember, the very best ones?

GM Ilustrisimo: Here in the Philippines, no one would fight me. I had fights in Singapore and in Jakarta with good players. The toughest one was in Singapore. I cut him across the right wrist and won the fight and $5000. I also fought in Calcutta and broke that man’s right arm.
AFAM: Besides yourself, then, who here in the Philippines were the best fighters?

GM Ilustrisimo: My father, my grandfather and the brother of my father were all great fighters.

AFAM: So you learned from your father and uncles?

GM Ilustrisimo:   Yes.
AFAM: Who was Pedro Cortes? Did you learn anything from him?
GM Ilustrisimo:   Yes, he was the sparring partner of my father, from Mindanao. His style was much like the Ilustrisimo style, same as my father’s.
AFAM: What about some of the famous names everyone has heard about? People like Dizon, Villabrille, Cabales? Did you know them when you were all younger?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes, we were all here in Manila. Villabrille was my cousin.
AFAM: Did you ever teach Cabales anything?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes, but I didn’t like his techniques.
AFAM:   Did you ever fight with Cabales or the others?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes, we played often, but none of them would fight me for real.
AFAM:   So you had a reputation even then, when you were a young man. What other fights have you had?
GM Ilustrisimo:   Yes. No one wanted to fight me. In the early 50′s, I had a real fight, not an arranged match, with a man called “Doming” here on Dock 8. He had a knife and I picked up a short piece of pipe from the ground. He died from a blow to the head with that pipe.

AFAM: I’ve heard that you have another nickname. “Dagohoy”, is that correct?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes, it is only a nickname.
Tony Diego: “Dagohoy” was a famous fighter from the island of Bohol who led the people in an uprising. He was a famous figure in our history, so people call “Tatang” this name as, well, a name of respect.
AFAM: Dan Inosanto is very well-known in martial arts circles. One of his teachers of arnis was John LaCoste. Did you know John LaCoste here before he went to the US?
GM Ilustrisimo: No, I didn’t know him.
AFAM:   What about the fighters from Cebu? The Canetes, the Saavedras, etc.? Did you know them, or ever fight anyone from Cebu?
GM Ilustrisimo: No, I never fought them, but I don’t like their techniques. The Cebu fighters like to use the abanico techniques to the head. No good!
AFAM:  In your style, you train to use a blade. Does that change how you use a
stick?
GM Ilustrisimo: It’s the same, no different.
AFAM: There was a famous match arranged once, between Joe Mena and “Cacoy” Canete. Can you tell me what happened?
GM Ilustrisimo:   They began to fight but someone interfered and the fight was not resolved, no winner.
AFAM: I’ve heard that you began training when you were 9 years old. That would have been in about 1916. How was training different then, from the way it has become today?
GM Ilustrisimo:   It was very different. It was only practical training then, learning how to survive.
AFAM:   During World War II, you were a resistance fighter. There are several stories about you from that time. Can you tell me about some of them?
GM Ilustrisimo: Yes, I was fighting the Japanese. I killed 7 Japanese with my blade.
Tony Diego: There is a good story about that time. One night, “Tatang” and a friend had been drinking and were walking home when they came upon a single Japanese sentry. “Tatang” walked right up to the man and pulled his samurai sword right out of the scabbard, looked at it and put it back. The Japanese soldier was so surprised that he just stood there and did nothing, even though he had a gun.

AFAM:   GM Ilustrisimo, you’ve had a long and eventful life. Is there anything you regret, or anything you would like to change?
GM Ilustrisimo: Nothing. I’ve been happy.
AFAM:   Thank you for this interview and for the knowledge that you have passed along.

 

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Kalis Ilustrisimo Headquarters aid for Grandmaster Tony Diego

Kalis Ilustrisimo Headquarters aid for Grandmaster Tony Diego

To all our Kalis Ilustrisimo brothers and sisters, On the morning of February 24, 2012 a fire raged through a small community in Manila. Many houses were razed to the ground leaving families homeless. We received sad news that the home of Master Tony Diego was among those houses that didn’t survive the fire. Absolutely none of their possessions were saved except the clothes on their backs. Master Tony and family are alive and safe but in dire need of assistance. Since the fire, they have been given temporary shelter at the local community center. We would like to solicit the immediate help of our brothers and sisters in Kalis Ilustrisimo and other kind souls to send aid for Master Tony and his family. Since Master Tony has no home at the moment, donations in kind may pose a problem. Instead, cash donations would be preferred and much appreciated. All parties who would like to make a donation are requested to send us a private message on our facebook page or email us at kalis.ilustrisimo.hq@gmail.com so that we can make arrangements to receive your donation. Thank you! Kalis Ilustrisimo Headquarters