A Blog on Eskrima 3

So you want to study arnis in Cebu, eh? Well, you ought to know that traditionally we call it eskrima, not arnis here. The word arnis, as we used it here, means 'tripping' somebody down. It was only in the seventies, during the Marcos' years that the term arnis was promoted by the NARAPHIL here. If you doubt it, then ask any old practitioner from the rural areas, once you're here.

Basically, arnis and eskrima are one and the same "carabao."

Now, do you speak our language, Cebuano? Do you have a network here? Do you have contacts who can help you around, at least in the City? If you don't have, then it is likely you will end up in the places where most foreigners go.

You don't like it? You want to learn from other less-known teachers who can probably teach you other, not-so-commercialized eskrima styles (though not necesarilly better.)? Do you really want to experience more on FMA? Here's what you do . . .

First, read where the Philippines is. Where is Cebu? Who are the Filipinos? The different ethnic groups here. What are the languages and dialects we speak? Read about the different styles of arnis or systems of the so-called Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). If you do just that, then I can assure you, you will see the real stuff. So that when you go home, you will learn more about us and our culture. Man, we are not just karaoke enthusiasts, we know eskrima too.

Unfortunately, many are coming over without ever knowing anything about us. Maximize your experience here, do your homework. If you want to armed yourself with usable information and right, friendly attitude, I suggest you read Cebuano Eskrima: Beyond the Myth.