The Evolution and Global Influence of Filipino Martial Arts

Filipino martial arts (FMA), also known as Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali, have a rich history that spans centuries and is deeply intertwined with the cultural evolution of the Philippines. The art form, which was born out of an intrinsic need for self-preservation, is believed to have originated during prehistoric times in the Philippines​ 1​​2​.

As the Philippines came under the influence of foreign cultures, such as the Spanish and the Americans, FMA also began to incorporate elements from these cultures. The Spanish introduced fencing techniques to the Philippines, which were incorporated into the traditional art of Arnis. The Americans, on the other hand, introduced boxing and wrestling techniques, which were integrated into the art of Eskrima​​.

Filipino Martial Arts in the US were heavily influenced by many pioneers, chief among those some consider is Angel Cabales, the founder of Serrada Escrima. Angel Cabales (1917–1991) was known as the father of Escrima in America. He started teaching Escrima in Stockton, California, in 1966 and was one of the first to publicly teach the art in the U.S. He was known for his unique style of footwork and his teachings emphasized practical self-defense applications that could be used with or without weapons.

In the 1970s, Cabales began to teach his art to non-Filipinos and his students have carried on his teachings after his death in 1991. His art of Serrada Escrima is known for its close-quarter combat style and is usually practiced at a closer range with shorter weapons​. One of his most celebrated students and the man responsible for structuring his Cabales Serrada Escrima System is GM Mike Inay, known by many Mangisursuro Mike Inay.

The 20th century marked a resurgence in the popularity of FMA. Many practitioners began to focus on modernizing the art form, incorporating new techniques and training methods. This led to the development of new styles, such as Modern Arnis, developed by Grandmaster Remy Presas​​. Another prevalent modern system is the Inayan System of Eskrima founded by Mangisursuro Mike Inay, and now headed by Suro Jason Inay.

Filipino Martial Arts, was introduced in Manila in 1969 at the National College of Physical Education. This introduction played a significant role in its propagation, as the students, who were teachers from different schools in the country, began teaching Arnis to their own students​​.

Today, FMA continues to evolve and is practiced worldwide. It's not only a popular choice for self-defense and physical fitness, but it's also a core component of the U.S. Army's Modern Army Combatives program and is mandatory knowledge in the Philippine military and police​1​​2​. FMA is even taught in many military and law enforcement agencies around the world​​.

Several Hollywood movies and the teachings of modern masters like Venancio "Anciong" Bacon, Dan Inosanto, Roland Dantes, Edgar Sulite, Cacoy Canete, Danny Guba, Mike Inay, Remy Presas, and others have also contributed to the increased prominence of FMA​​.

Efforts have been made to include the many martial arts of the Philippines into the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. As of 2019, a total of nine elements scattered in eight countries, including Thailand, Georgia, and Korea, have successfully inscribed their martial arts in the UNESCO list​​.

In conclusion, the global history of FMA is a rich tapestry of cultural influences, evolving techniques, and dedicated practitioners. From its prehistoric roots to its modern-day incarnations, FMA has stood the test of time and continues to be a beloved art form for people around the world​​.