NARAPHIL Performs for the Papal visit!

NARAPHIL Performs for the Papal visit
17 February 1981

During the Papal visit in 17 February 1981, NARAPHIL was tasked to perform a welcome arnis exhibition number along Roxas Boulevard that extend more than five kilometers stretch from the corner of the Cultural Center of the Philippines at the Vito Cruz St. in Manila to the Redemptorist Church in Baclaran in Pasay City.


It was the most challenging show of force that NARAPHIL ever did and probably no arnis organization can duplicate its fete. More than 2600 members participated in that activity coming from the different school chapters and community-based clubs in Metro-Manila and adjacent provinces.


The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development provided the logistical support, transportation and other services for NARAPHIL. Included in that cultural exhibition along the Papal way were different groups and dance companies performing from the Manila International Airport to the Redemptorist Church in Baclaran.


The same activities were given during the visit of the Chinese Premier Li and US President Ford visits in the Philippines. In the Malacañang palace ground, the PHILMAT gave an arnis exhibition number with astonishing performance.

During China's Premier Li’s visit, the Wushu group of China performed a one night exhibition to the Filipino crowd at the Araneta Coliseum. The PHILMAT were given the chance to perform alongside with them the Filipino martial art of ARNIS to the awesome of the guest especially when they showcased their dexterity in the used of real bladed weaponry. The clashing of blades and sparkling of metals as they collide gave an astonishing and impressive performance to the eyes of the guest performers. This is the PHILMAT .......... the cultural performing arm of the NARAPHIL!

Pope John Paul II first visit to the Philippines with the NARAPHIL arnisadors performing at his pleasure. What an extra ordinary welcome performance for the Pope.

Performers line-up along Roxas Boulevard as they await the cue for the arrival of Pope John Paul II from the organizing staff. The line extend to a more than five kilometer stretch with 2600 performers.

Arnisadors perform the double sinawali as the convoy of Pope John Paul II approaches. NARAPHIL Instructor Tol Godoy, standing in the left corner, watches the cue from the other assigned staff for the event.

Viva el Papa!!!

"Welcome to the Philippines"

courtesy of the National Arnis Association of the Philippines