So you’re on the hunt for a Filipino martial arts school. With options aplenty, making a choice can be daunting. Here’s what to focus on to find the best fit for you.

In martial arts, there’s a threefold focus: war, sport, and art.

The word “martial” comes from Mars the god of war – a testament to one’s power to dominate with physical might. This force, both by nations and individuals alike, has been the key to seizing power, wealth, and resources throughout history.

When Pamana Kali was invited to present a Kali demonstration on the main stage at the Long Beach Filipino Festival, I immediately said yes without looking at my calendar. Of course we want to do it. It's an opportunity to promote the classes we teach at Kubo Collective in Bixby Knolls. It shows that we are a part of the community.

If what we do is Kali, why is JKD considered part of that training? Its all because of Guro Dan Inosanto and Bruce Lee.

Common terms used in Filipino Martial Arts (FMA):

Kali - Kali is often considered a subset of FMA that focuses on the use of swords and knives. At Pamana we use the word Kali to describe the war arts of the Philippines. Guro Dan Inosanto was told by GM Floro Vilabrile to use the term Kali as a combination of the word Kamut (hand) and Lihok (movment)

At Pamana Kali, we share Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream of a world where every human being is celebrated for their differences, where we can all live together in peace, where each and every one of us has equal opportunity to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Teach children to respect themselves and each other's boundaries.

I change the world where I have the greatest influence. I do this in every class. I teach boys to respect girls as equals. I teach girls to respect themselves and expect everyone else to do the same.

Pamana Kali Chief Instructor Guro Alvin Catacutan featured in 52 Masters by Sensei William Christopher Ford.

Dan Inosanto, world renowned martial artist and teacher was born and raised in Stockton, California. His Father Sebastian Inosanto was responsible for Guro Dan's early education in Kali. He was the founder of the first union for farm workers in California. 

Training with live blades and safe trainers is for the fortunate and privileged.

My ancestors trained with rattan and wood because it was readily available and affordable. Most practitioners in the Philippines today learn the blade arts using a stick.