Training with the Arnis Grandmasters

Arnis Grandmasters namely:

GM Benjamin Lema, GM Florentino Pecate,
GM Jose Mena, GM Antonio Ilustrisimo and GM Ciriaco Cañete

In 1977, there was a massive influx of NARAPHIL membership in all level of the society nationwide because of the establishment of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development which supported the "Siglakas Project". Included in this sports project was the introduction of arnis to all level of the society nationwide even in farflung areas, from Tuguegarao to Jolo and all cities, provinces and schools.

Arnis awareness became massive that prompted the NARAPHIL hierarchy to fast track their "Trainers Program" and adopt a better program upgrading their teaching capability through a series of training modules. The demand for quality instructors has expanded the Corps to 230 instructors that need further orientation, training and teaching expertise.

One of the training modules was the "Training with the NARAPHIL Grandmasters". Only five of the NARAPHIL grandmasters were able to render their services and it was an honor and rare opportunity for the Corps for their training. This was one of the initial projects of Dir. Romeo Mascardo (NARAPHIL Executive Director) and Mr. Fernando Vinculado who assumed the position of the NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Corps (1979-1985).

The project was to help the corps appreciate and give them insights on the different styles of this grandmasters and help them preserve their legacy and flourish.

"Arnis Instructors Training Course"
05-11 June 1979

NCI Class-1 participants
with NARAPHIL Chief Instructor Fernando Vinculado

NARAPHIL Corps of Instructors
Undergoing arnis training from the five NARAPHIL
arnis grandmasters.

NCI Class-1 participants with GM Benjamin Lema
Gymnastics Gymnasium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex
Vito Cruz, Manila

5-11 June 1979