A cultural renaissance in the Philippines
Without the involvement of young people, any form of cultural heritage is at risk. Ekxel Carlo T. Degollacion looks at a youth initiative in the Philippines targeting cultural identity, fitness and wellbeing.
The ancient martial art of Arnis
In a pioneering move to celebrate and preserve a treasured Filipino tradition, Lapu-Lapu City is embedding Arnis, into its elementary and secondary physical education curriculum. Broadly similar to the Japanese martial art of Kendo, Arnis is the national martial art of the Philippines.
This ambitious initiative, led by Dr. March Mandal, Education Program Supervisor for Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health (MAPEH), aims to reinvigorate the sport by making it a central part of students’ educational experience.
Educational workshops and seminars conducted by experts like Jonel Pepito (one of the city’s leading Arnis coaches) are vital, and will offer deeper insights into Arnis techniques, history, and philosophy. These sessions will be open to both students and teachers, ensuring that knowledge about Arnis is widely disseminated and appreciated.
Lapu-Lapu City’s Arnis de Abanico School Club
To sustain and expand interest in Arnis, the city is establishing the Lapu-Lapu City Arnis de Abanico School Club. This club will serve as a central hub for students passionate about Arnis, offering regular training sessions, practice drills, and advanced techniques. The club will also facilitate interactions between students and experienced ‘arnisadors’, including guidance from Jonel Pepito. By creating a structured environment for practice and development, the club aims to cultivate disciplined and skilled ‘arnisadors’ who can contribute to the sport’s legacy.
School response
Lapu-Lapu City’s public schools are responding proactively to the initiative and have started to identify and encourage students with an interest in martial arts to get involved. Through various school activities and introductory workshops, students are already being introduced to the fundamentals of Arnis, building the foundations for a new generation of skilled practitioners. This grassroots approach ensures that the sport reaches a broad audience and generates enthusiasm among young people. In this way it is hoped that the initiative will have an impact on wellbeing as well as the city’s cultural heritage.
Coordinated community approach
To further promote Arnis and celebrate its cultural significance, Lapu-Lapu City is organising a series of Arnis-related events. A programme of large-scale festivals featuring demonstrations, competitions and exhibitions of Arnis techniques, showcasing the skill and artistry of local practitioners are already attracting attention and engaging the community in the celebration of their cultural heritage. New tournaments will provide students with opportunities to compete and refine their skills, fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship and identity among young ‘arnisadors’.
Curriculum development and implementation
Working under Dr. Mandal and Learning Resource Supervisor Dr. Allan Adem, educators have been developing Arnis lesson plans, modules, and video presentations. These materials are designed to integrate Arnis into the existing physical education curriculum which aims, not only to balance physical training with educational content, but also to ensure that students gain both practical skills and an appreciation for their heritage.
A model of cross-disciplinary significance
This initiative therefore represents more than just an educational reform: it has far reaching cultural significance.
Lapu-Lapu City is fostering a renewed sense of cultural pride and connection to its historical roots in a way that really appeals to young people, guaranteeing that this vital aspect of Filipino heritage continues to thrive.
Lapu-Lapu City’s commitment to Arnis is setting a precedent for cultural preservation and physical education. Through a holistic approach involving strategic curriculum development, community engagement, and the creation of dedicated platforms for practice and celebration, the city is ensuring that Arnis remains a vibrant and integral part of its cultural landscape, while providing a framework for so many kids just to have a great new outlet for their energy.
And with no screentime involved, that has to be a good thing!
Ekxel Carlo T. Degollacion is a Department of Education teacher in the Philippines, working at the Gun-ob Elementary School. He is also a popular children’s author and an educational content writer.
Our thanks to the Arnis de Abanico School Club and to Ekxel for providing the images.
