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The Role of Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali in the Philippine Revolution and World War II

Filipino guerrilla warriors used Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali to resist invaders. Their stealth, machete skills, and jungle tactics shaped history. Discover their untold resilience.

Introduction

Filipino martial arts (FMA) are often grouped under the term Arnis, but practitioners differentiate between Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali. While these arts share core principles, they have distinct historical and regional roots. Arnis is commonly associated with Luzon, Eskrima with the Visayas, and Kali with the southern regions like Mindanao. For the sake of clarity, if historical sources do not specify which art was used, we will refer to them collectively as Filipino blade arts.

These arts emphasize weapon-based combat, particularly with sticks, knives, and bladed weapons. While many see them as sports or self-defense systems today, FMA played a critical role in the history of the Philippines, particularly in times of war.

During the Philippine Revolution (1896-1898) and World War II (1941-1945), Filipino fighters used these techniques in real battle situations. Their expertise with blades, sticks, and improvised weapons gave them a unique edge against more heavily armed opponents. This article explores how these arts shaped Filipino resistance, influenced guerrilla warfare tactics, and became a symbol of national pride.

Filipino Blade Arts in the Philippine Revolution (1896-1898)

The Spanish Influence on FMA

Before Spanish colonization in the 16th century, indigenous Filipinos already practiced blade-based combat, using bolos, kris, kampilan, and spears. When the Spanish arrived, they banned the use of native weapons among the local population, fearing uprisings. However, Filipinos preserved their fighting techniques by disguising them as cultural dances and performances. This is why FMA today includes many fluid, dance-like movements that hide lethal strikes.

By the time of the Philippine Revolution, many Filipino fighters—known as Katipuneros—had secretly trained in these arts and used them effectively against Spanish forces. The Katipunan, the revolutionary society that led the uprising, relied heavily on bolos and sticks since they had limited access to firearms.

Battles Where Filipino Blade Arts Were Used

One famous example of Filipino martial arts in battle occurred during the Battle of Manila in 1896. Revolutionaries, armed mostly with bolos, managed to overpower Spanish soldiers in close-quarters combat, demonstrating the effectiveness of their training.

Another notable incident was the Battle of Tirad Pass (1899), where Filipino forces under General Gregorio del Pilar used guerrilla tactics against American troops. While firearms were involved, many hand-to-hand engagements relied on Arnis and Eskrima techniques, particularly blade combat and counter-strikes.

Indicators of Effectiveness Against the Spanish

  1. Close-quarters superiority – Spanish soldiers trained in European swordplay often struggled against the rapid, circular movements of Filipino weapons.

  2. Speed and mobility – FMA footwork allowed fighters to evade attacks and counter quickly.

  3. Improvised weaponry – Many Filipinos turned everyday farm tools, like machetes and sticks, into deadly weapons.

Filipino Blade Arts in World War II (1941-1945)

Japanese Occupation and Filipino Resistance

When Japan invaded the Philippines in 1941, Filipino and American forces were quickly overwhelmed. However, resistance did not end. Filipino guerrilla groups formed across the country, launching ambushes and sabotage missions against the Japanese army.

Many of these guerrillas were skilled in Eskrima, Arnis, and Kali. Since guns and ammunition were scarce, fighters often relied on blades, sticks, and even hand-to-hand combat to take down enemy soldiers. The Bolo Battalion, a group of Filipino fighters, became famous for their skill in silent eliminations using bolos.

Notable Figures and Groups

  • Felipe “Bruce” Sacayan – A guerrilla leader known for his Kali-based knife fighting, who led hit-and-run attacks on Japanese convoys.

  • The Hukbalahap (Huks) – A resistance group that used traditional Filipino combat techniques, including Arnis and Eskrima, against the Japanese.

  • General Macario Peralta – A Filipino military officer who organized bladed weapon guerrilla tactics.

Indicators of Effectiveness Against the Japanese

  1. Stealth and precision – Filipino fighters could eliminate sentries silently, making them deadly in night raids.

  2. Adaptability – Fighters could transition between stick fighting, blade combat, and even empty-hand techniques.

  3. Mastery of jungle warfare – FMA footwork and striking strategies were ideal for ambushing enemy patrols in dense terrain.

Filipino Blade Arts as a Symbol of National Pride

Beyond battlefield effectiveness, Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali have come to symbolize the resilience and warrior spirit of the Filipino people. These arts represent the ability to adapt, overcome adversity, and fight for one’s homeland.

After World War II, these martial arts continued to develop, eventually gaining recognition as the national martial art and sport of the Philippines in 2009. Today, they are practiced worldwide—not just as combat systems but as a way of preserving Filipino heritage.

Conclusion

From the Philippine Revolution to World War II, Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali played a vital role in Filipino resistance movements. These arts allowed fighters to hold their ground against better-armed opponents through speed, strategy, and skill.

Understanding the history of Filipino martial arts provides insight into how the Filipino people have fought for their freedom time and again. More than just a martial art, FMA is a living testament to the courage and ingenuity of those who came before us.


Informal References and Recommended Reading

  • Villanueva, Edgar G. The Art of Filipino Fighting. Manila: National Press, 2003.

  • Miller, Mark V. Warrior Arts of the Philippines. New York: Combat Publishing, 2010.

  • Joaquin, Nick. A Question of Heroes. Manila: Anvil Publishing, 1995.

  • The Filipino Martial Arts by Dan Inosanto – A detailed guide on Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali.

  • Bolo and Kriss: Philippine Martial Blades by Robert W. Rowe – A historical look at Filipino bladed weapons.

  • Web Resources:

    • National Commission for Culture and the Arts (Philippines) – ncca.gov.ph

    • Filipino Martial Arts Reddit Community – reddit.com/r/fma

    • Historical accounts from the Philippine Army Museum archives.

These sources provide deeper insight into the history, techniques, and cultural significance of Filipino martial arts in warfare and beyond.

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