Duelo and Filipino Martial Arts

 

Duelo and the Filipino Martial Arts

 

     Last night there was a disturbance near us, two drunken men challenged each other and almost engaged with their gulok, thanks to the arrival of the barangay tanod (community security aide) and a town councilor the two were separated.

I remembered the two arnisadores who challenged on online social media to duel to finish the matter of their contest, where they agreed to task me as the arbiter in their duel. Fortunately, I and other friends helped to save the two because dueling is strictly prohibited by law in the Philippines, not only the two who challenged will be punished by the law but also the people who intervened and helped in having the duel.

 


Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duel#/media/File:FrzDuellImBoisDeBoulogneDurand1874.jpg

According to Rollo (2022), a duel is a formalized fight between two people in conflict; four main types of duels existed before in Italy, the “duello cavalleresco” or “chivalrous duel” a type of dueling that aims to resolve a conflict between two gentlemen, it is characterized by the presence of witnesses on both sides and a well-defined set of rules must be followed; the “duello guidiziale” or “judicial duel” which was practiced in the feudal ages, this dueling type is based on the concept of “Judgement of God” in which the winner will prove innocent in the crime; the “duello guerresco” or “war duel” is a kind of duel in which notable representatives of two warring armies fought thus avoiding mass casualties; the “duello rusticano” or “rustic duel” a type of duel fought by commoners with available weapons such as knives or sticks, without witnesses and with less strict rules. Chivalrous duel and rustic duel can be called “duel of honor” in which the duel was fought for matters of honor (Rollo, A. 2022).

Dueling in Italy, particularly the duel of honor usually caused by vertenza, an affair of honor arising from an insult that could end in a retraction, an understanding, or armed combat (Hughes, 2007). A challenge to a duel was usually done with sfida, a written or oral challenge.

 

A depiction of a duel by Spanish painter Francisco de Goya, “Duelo a garrotazos”

Dueling was a chivalric tradition of the aristocrats during the Renaissance and Napoleonic era. Most of the involved in the recorded duels were military officers, aristocrats, and some from the commoners. The common weapons used during the Napoleonic times were sabers, small swords, pistols, and among the commoners in a one-on-one clash, knives in hand, with greater frequency and usually ended in fatal consequences. During the Renaissance period, the use of a rapier was common among the recorded duels.

This essay is about dueling in the realm of Filipino martial arts.

  

Dueling

     Grandmaster Cacoy Canete (1993), mentioned that the contemporary arnis tournaments overtaken the duels of the past among arnis practitioners. There are some pieces of literature with regards to dueling with the sticks among practitioners of arnis, dueling was part of arnis practitioners’ life before the dawn of the modern Philippine society.

Dueling is a universal way of conflict between two antagonists. It was part of most societies as a quasi-legal way of resolving conflict between two parties through combat actions. In European history it was documented and statistically recorded, formally started as a means of resolving conflict in the period of medieval European states.

The common concept in conducting a duel was the “first blood”, in which the duel is considered to end when one or both of the duelists are wounded. In the case of a pistol duel, there were fatal and non-fatal consequences A duel can be considered a “perfect duel”, if both men demonstrate their courage, according to the rules and with mutual respect for all involved. A duel was

formalized after accepting the sfida, a time and place will be agreed upon, an arbiter will be chosen by both sides. And a seconde or padrino is usually accompanied by the duelist. The padrino serves as a witness, and judge for the equal form of arms to be used, and may act as the alternate in case the real duelist can’t arrive due to force majeure (Hughes, 2007; Wilson, 1858).

Structured formats on how the duel will be conducted were usually agreed upon from the instruction of an arbiter or based on the instruction of a fencing master. Military officers and fencing masters who enjoyed the corporate relationship with the dueling ethic that gave them automatic authority over the affairs of honor duels (Hughes, 2007).

It became almost like a plaque in most of Europe, daily news of duels happened; it was becoming a sort of requirement among military men to engage in duels for their recognition and a step toward being promoted to rank. Dueling became a positive force in society, it provided an ameliorative function in demanding good behavior from the people; it also served as a culture of heroism among young gentlemen to deepen their love of their fatherland (Hughes, 2007, Roth, 1989).

But ever since, a negation of dueling was always carried out, particularly by religious leaders. They unequivocally condemned duel as a false and sinful test of either honor or courage, the duel is one of the three major sins (suicide, duel, and murder) that man can do based on the teachings of the church. They even prohibited those who died in dueling from having a Christian burial (Hughes, 2007; Donna, 1980).

Eventually, dueling led to hyper-nationalism and the cult of violence that led to the early fascist movement in Europe. The emergence of a more “policed” society and the demilitarization of the aristocratic families led to those personalities solving their conflict without violence.

The last recorded duel in Europe was in France, it was fought with epee in 1967 between the Mayor of Marseille and the Socialist Party candidate for president.

 

 Duel in FMA

         The tradition of duels in Filipino martial arts, particularly with the use of sticks or bladed weapons was a tradition brought by the Spanish in the Philippines. According to Rollo (2022), the type of duel was the “duel of honor.” The most common causes of duels were the test of skills carried out under some sort of formality, mimicking the European approach.

There were many names used by Filipinos concerning duel, some called it “Patayan” or literally means death match. Some called it “juego todo” or full contact. But not all duels were “death challenges,” the duelists can opt for different types of fighting, and the rules, and intensity were agreed upon before the confrontation.

The “juego todo” which was the goriest type of duel, was term used mostly in Cebu and other areas in Visayas. In this type of duel, two escrimadores fight with sticks without the use of any protection and there is no limitation for the types and power of blows (Canete, 1989).

In some parts of Luzon, particularly in Laguna, they called it “Matira Matibay” or “Combate General.” There was also the “Laban Mahinaan”, “Lapat Mahinaan,” “ Controlada,” which refers to a kind of sparring with light contact with the opponent. There was also the “Walang Lapat” which is the same as Cebuano’s “Juego no Toque,” a kind of fight in which the attacks and counter-attacks are not intended to land, but are stopped short of the point of contact (Rollo, 2022).

 

Centurion Arnis, a kind of stick prizefighting held during fiesta in Paete Laguna

Some matches with sticks were conducted during fiestas, but this was not the same as the concept of honor duel, but a sort of open sparring with limitations in terms of types and power of blows.

According to Macapagal (2021), a prizefighter of those days went to fiestas and enrolled in a tournament; the loser in this event was the one who dropped his stick, gave up, and got a bloodied head. And this can still be seen during the fiesta in the town of Paete in Laguna.

The most told stories on duels in Filipino martial arts was the open challenge or bahad between the two escrimador clubs, the Balintawak and the Doce Pares in the year 1964. And there were some open challenges among the stick fighters following this confrontation (Go, 2010).

The prohibitions of dueling were also a long story of struggle between the supporters of duels and the authorities. From the introduction of dueling culture until the 20th century, many legislations were making dueling illegal (Rollo, 2022).

Dueling continued until the middle of the 20th century among stick fighters in the Visayas, and it was decreased thru the enforcement of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines acted in 1932, which will punish those engaged in dueling, and all involved will be subjected to a major crime punishment. The end of duels among stick fighters gave birth to the introduction of arnis sparring competition with safety gear and detailed rules.

 

Ending

        There are many other stories of some well-known "masters" regarding their duels, but if based on historical pieces of evidence, and common sense, it appears that many of them just made things up to have a "cultural investment" to be recognized, get respect, and potential students.

Antonio Luna and Jose Rizal in their almost dueling match for the love of Nelly Boustead

In the history of the Philippines, events of dueling were mentioned. Dagohoy's rebellion started because the church did not allow his brother who died in a duel to be buried as a Catholic, there was also the almost duel between Jose Rizal and Antonio Luna because of the matter of love for a woman. And the preempted dueling challenge of Gen. Antonio Luna against the pro-American politician, Pedro Paterno.

There are also types of current arnis sparring that are based on the almost dueling of farmers in the matter of irrigation, and this is the origin of the idea of ​​Granmaestro Doy Baldemor of arnis Paete in his invention of the game "Arnis sa Bangko."

 

Arnis sa Bangko (source: Paete Arnis fb page)

The typical duel of common people due to anger and the influence of alcohol remained, this is the 'rustic duel.' But for eskrimadores, what serve as a duel are the sports arnis tournaments that most young people participate in and the 'laban-laro' of traditional arnisadores.

 

 Joel D. Anajao,  09/15/2024


References:

 

Donna T. Andrew (1980) The code of honour and its critics: The opposition to duelling

in England [Published Study], 1700–1850, Social History, 5:3, 409-434, DOI: 10.1080/03071028008567487

 

Go, K. (2010). Eskrimadors [Documentary Film]

 

Godhanian, K. (2001). The Filipino Duel: Its History and Practice, in Mark Wiley, Arnis:

Reflections on the History and Development of the Filipino Martial Arts. Boston, Tuttle

Publishing

 

Hughes, S. C. (2007). Politics of the Sword: Dueling, Honor, and Masculinity in

Modern Italy [Book], The Ohio State University Press, USA

 

Macapagal, R. (2021). Kalis Ilustrisimo: The Archived System of Antonio “Tatang”

Ilustrismo [Book], Central Books Supply Inc., Philippines

 

Philippines (1935). Act. No. 3815, An Act Revising the Penal Code and Other Penal

Laws [Book]

 

Rollo, A. (2022). New Insights into the History of Filipino Martial Arts [Unpublished

Study], University of Alicante, Spain

 

Roth, A.A. (1989). Dishonor of Duelling [Published Study], Geoscience vol.1-16, 1989,

retrieve from https://www.grisda.org/assets/public/publications/origins/16003.pdf

https://www.grisda.org/origins-16003

 

Scott. R. (1977). The Duellists [Film], Paramount Pictures Studios

 

Wilson, J.L. (1858). The Code of Honor; or Rules for the Government of Principals

and Seconds in Duelling [Published Study], in Winthrop University Rare Books,

retrieved from

https://era.ed.ac.uk/bitstream/handle/1842/31279/Windsor2018.pdf?sequence=1&is

Allowed=

Comments

  1. BAE 2-1 (202306199)

    A martial art is any form of fighting and an art that has a set way of practice. There are many martial arts that come from certain countries. They are practiced for many reasons such as fighting, self-defense, sport, self-expression, discipline, confidence, fitness, relaxing, and meditation. For so many reasons, martial arts or arnis is a symbol of field in the past but in the present it will continue to play in this moderation time. However, martial arts are not only about self-defense. It also teaches respect, discipline, and confidence. As said to the quote, "the goal of the martial arts is not for the destruction of an opponent, but rather for self-growth and self-perception.

    ReplyDelete
  2. BAE 2-1 (BAELS IRREG), 202301284

    My insight about the duels in Filipino martial arts was that the Juego Todo, or Patayan, is very harmful for the well-being of the participants, while Controlada, or Juego no Toque, is a very child-friendly duel that can be learned by all participants. Agreeing with many legislations and the enforcement of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines in 1932 that dueling using Arnis can be very dangerous and may result in bloody duels by ruling it a crime and illegal if done without guidance and protections.

    ReplyDelete
  3. In 1993 Grandmaster Cacoy Canete discussed the historical context of dueling in arnis, emphasizing its significance in the lives of practitioners before modern tournaments became prevalent. He noted that dueling was not only a way to settle disputes but also a demonstration of skill, honor, and respect among fighters. This practice highlighted the martial art's cultural roots and the serious nature of training and discipline in arnis.

    ReplyDelete
  4. The blog is very informative with most of the difficult terms being explained properly and thoroughly. It is also an interesting blog with the history of dueling being introduced amazingly well considering the blog isn't that long. The trivia/fact that I was shocked about is the information about Jose Rizal (A Political Activist) and Antonio Luna (One of the fiercest generals of his time) who are both prominent historical figures in the Philippines almost having a duel due to their love for a woman.

    BAE 2-1
    202304937

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  5. Filipino martial arts practiced dueling, which is a regulated combat between two individuals that started in Italy during the Renaissance and Napoleonic periods. Dueling developed as a semi-legal means of settling disputes through physical fighting in the Philippines. Men in the military were forced to learn how to duel, which fueled hypernationalism and the emergence of the fascist movement. The arnis sparring sport was first created by the Philippines' Revised Penal Code in 1932.

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  6. Its interesting how social norms have influenced martial arts practices by highlighting the legal bans on duelling in the Philippines and making comparisons to European duelling traditions. In last , it serves to highlight the contradiction between tradition and modernisation as well as the continuing importance of honour in resolving disputes.

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  7. Upon reading these blog, I subjectively understand every 'duello' they're called in every period and/or country. They're showing their culture on how they can defend themselves or to show strength and power. It is very interesting blog to read because its bring an enlightenment especially to me because all I know about European country before is full of empiricism and war. Additionally, I also learned that way back after introducing these activity in our country, the arnis is locally know for dueling purposes and it is prohibited due to violence and no limitation rule. Overall, it is fun and very informative to share especially to me as a student because of its historical story and somehow the art of arnis can be used as physical defense.

    ReplyDelete
  8. The journey of a swordsman in Filipino martial arts, particularly through Duelo, reflects a rich tapestry of cultural influences and historical evolution. Filipino martial arts, including Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali, emerged from the need for self-defense against invaders, blending indigenous techniques with elements of Spanish swordsmanship. This adaptive nature allowed practitioners to develop versatile combat skills using available resources.
    Duelo emphasizes the art of the duel, showcasing both technical precision and the philosophical underpinnings of honor and respect in combat. The practice not only preserves ancient fighting methods but also fosters a sense of identity and cultural pride among Filipinos

    ReplyDelete
  9. After reading the blog, I can say that this Swordsman’s Journey, especially Duelo and Filipino Martial Arts, helped me understand a bit more about where this sport came from. Duelo is a form of combat or sparring where two people face each other with weapons, like sticks or swords. It’s not just about winning but also about learning control, speed, and how to protect yourself. This sport isn't just about fighting between two people but it can also help us in many ways. It teaches us how to be strong, brave, and disciplined. Practicing Duelo and FMA can give us better focus, respect for others, and the ability to control our emotions. It also promotes values like humility, patience, and teamwork. Learning these skills doesn’t just make us better at fighting, it helps us improve both our body and mind, making us stronger, more confident, and better prepared for challenges in life.

    ReplyDelete
  10. I appreciated each component in this blog owing to its enlightening exposition on the history of dueling. I realized that not only are basic sports like arnis taught to our learners, but they also include a narrative and historical significance that demands comprehension. As an agricultural entrepreneurship student, I was particularly intrigued by the farmers' practice of dueling, similar to arnis or sparring, referred to as "arnis sa banko."

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  11. Reading "Duelo and the Filipino Martial Arts" was an enriching experience. The book thoroughly explores the history and cultural importance of Filipino martial arts, including Eskrima, Kali, and Arnis. A notable aspect is the evolution of these martial arts over time, influenced by historical events and cultural interactions. The author skillfully traces their origins back to pre-colonial times, detailing their transformation during Spanish colonization and into modern times. The descriptions of traditional techniques, which encompass a variety of skills from weapon-based combat with sticks, knives, and swords to effective empty-hand techniques, were particularly captivating. I valued the emphasis on the adaptability and versatility of these martial arts, which have been refined through real combat and self-defense experiences. The book also explores the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Filipino martial arts, providing insights into the mindset and discipline necessary for mastery. The inspiring stories of legendary practitioners and their duels (or "duelos") offer a deeper appreciation of the values and principles that define these martial arts. In summary, "Duelo and the Filipino Martial Arts" is an essential read for anyone interested in martial arts, history, or Filipino culture. It presents a wealth of knowledge and fosters pride in the rich heritage of the Philippines. I highly recommend it to those seeking to enhance their understanding of these remarkable martial arts traditions.

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  12. I think this blog is very informative and interesting for those people learning about the history of combative sports in the Philippines. It mentioned how dueling used to be a big part of European countries like Spain and then influenced Filipino martial arts culture during their colonization. I learned about different types of duels like "patayan" and "juego todo." However, reading the part about how "juego todo" is dangerous makes me realize that arnis before was not just a sport but a serious way to solve problems. Hence, it's good to know that now, instead of dangerous duels, arnis tournaments give a safer way for fighters to show their skills. Today, competitions have rules and gear to ensure the players' safety. The statement about Rizal and Luna almost fighting a duel for a woman is also surprising. Overall, it’s a good blog to read for more knowledge about Filipino martial arts and dueling.

    ReplyDelete
  13. BAE 2-1 (202305033)

    The "Swordsman’s Journey: Duelo and the Filipino Martial Arts" examines the rich traditions of Filipino martial arts with clarity, emphasizing the practice of dueling in particular. By demonstrating how these traditions have changed throughout time, it highlights the historical relevance of these behaviors in Filipino society. The article crafts a captivating story that entices readers into the realm of Filipino martial arts by sharing personal stories and experiences. The detailed explanations of training regimens and procedures offer a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of the art form. The article also encourages readers to understand the cultural legacy that guides these cultural practices. It's a useful and motivational article for everyone interested in martial arts, skilled or not.

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  14. The tradition of duel in philippines has differences from place to place in terms of rules and what they are called. Each area also has different weapons such as sticks, and bladed weapons. Duel competition is often held at fiestas.The type of duel has changed over time. From the violent methods that wanted to hurt, gradually there were rules. Thus the arnis sparring competition was introduced with safety gear and detailed rules.

    BAE 2-1 (202301309)

    ReplyDelete
  15. The Complexity of Dueling in Filipino Martial Arts
    Dueling has been a way to resolve conflicts, and in Filipino martial arts (FMA), it reflects a rich cultural history. The author shares personal experience about dueling in the Philippines, the author are being challenge by two drunken men and almost engage by with their gulok. And author discussed the history of dueling in Filipino martial arts. This is shows how important and complex these practices are culturally and legally. Dueling in FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) was influenced by Spanish traditions and mixes different fighting styles. "juego todo" is like European duels, with full-contact fighting that can lead to serious injuries. "Matira matibay" is more competitive but still safer, while "laban mahinaan" focuses on light sparring. The "walang lapat" style emphasizes skill with fewer strikes. Each style shows martial skills and reflects cultural values of honor and respect.Dueling has greatly influenced Filipino martial arts. It helped people improve their skills and respect each other, leading to better techniques and organized contests. The spirit of traditional fighting remains strong, showing how important these practices are in Filipino culture.

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  16. The history of the Philippines is deeply intertwined with the practice of dueling, a tradition that reflects the cultural emphasis on honor, courage, and personal conflict resolution. While the practice of dueling has evolved over time, its legacy can still be seen in the current forms of arnis sparring. The events surrounding Dagohoy's rebellion, Rizal and Luna's near-duel, and Luna's challenge to Paterno highlight the significance of honor and personal disputes in Philippine history. The development of arnis sparring, particularly the "Arnis sa Bangko" game, further demonstrates the enduring influence of dueling on Philippine martial arts and culture.

    ReplyDelete
  17. BAE 2-1 (202302828)

    This blog provides an interesting look at the evolution of dueling in Filipino martial arts, contrasting past traditions with current restrictions. It emphasizes the conflict between traditional honor and modern legality, particularly in a country where dueling was previously a common form of problem resolution. The ultimate transformation of traditional dueling practices into formal arnis events highlights a change toward safety and community engagement, demonstrating the resilience of martial arts traditions.

    ReplyDelete
  18. allude to adapted fighting techniques developed in the Philippines, both old and new. Both Western and Eastern martial arts—the most well-known of which are called Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali—are included into it. These systems originated from an innate drive for self-preservation. Invaders and local warfare that changed over time placed different fighting dynamics on the islands that are now part of the Philippines. The Filipino people's understanding of their constantly shifting surroundings led them to acquire combat capabilities. They frequently picked up the skills necessary to prioritize, distribute, and employ shared resources in hostile circumstances via necessity.

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  19. After reading this Blog "Swordsman's Journey: Duelo and the Filipino Martial Arts" I can that this Blog really helps me to understand what is the real meaning of Duelo and Some of the most common weapons used in FMA / Kali are found in some variant or another on these two pages where duelists can have a very good playstyle of the diversity of combat styles that arise from the Philippines. That duelo is free-style, one-on-one combat, typically using the skills and techniques developed in FMA. Filipino Martial Arts encompass a variety of styles, such as Arnis, that all require timing and distance control in real combat situations. These arts show types of weapon play through sticks and blades, and hand to hand methods. Exercise, sparring and situational self-defense training in the art require regular practice to build a more disciplined approach to physical requirements of martial arts. Together, Duelo and Filipino Martial Arts highlight the importance of martial skill, strategy, and cultural/spiritual roots. They preach not only effective self-defenses fitness also personal growth, discipline and a greater understanding of Filipino culture history.

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  20. I really love how the blog started, from a random story about two drunken men challenging each other with their gulok into the brief introduction about duels as well to its history with the use of different sources. The blog was written well and provides a comprehensive details to its readers on the topic tackling about dueling both in Europe and the Philippines in relation to Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Visual representation was used in the blog that help the reader visualize it while reading the blog. It has a good flow while discussing the history and cultural insights as well. Overall, the blog effectively informs me about how rich our culture is and how it is still relevant up to this days.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Dueling has so much to learn about; it is just not a sport to begin with but a lot to experience because this is not the typical sparring sport that we have. It is a culture and an art that needs to be remembered from the past. It says here that the Filipino dueling has various terms to call this martial art and how to perform it. You can tell that Filipinos are creative and diverse in adapting. European approach, but the others can find it interesting and entertaining at the same time. People from the past do it for justice and entertainment, while the future learns it for practicing self defense, sports, and the arts. Lastly, the traditional duelo puts effort not just to influence the practice but also living it up or the respect and disclipine of the culture that we grow up on. 

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dueling has so much to learn about; it is just not a sport to begin with but a lot to experience because this is not the typical sparring sport that we have. It is a culture and an art that needs to be remembered from the past. It says here that the Filipino dueling has various terms to call this martial art and how to perform it. You can tell that Filipinos are creative and diverse in adapting. European approach, but the others can find it interesting and entertaining at the same time. People from the past do it for justice and entertainment, while the future learns it for practicing self defense, sports, and the arts. Lastly, the traditional duelo puts effort not just to influence the practice but also living it up or the respect and disclipine of the culture that we grow up on. 

      Delete
  22. BAE 2-1 (202301938)

    Blog really helps me to understand what is the real meaning of Duelo. What I learned or thoughts from reading the blog about dueling and Filipino martial arts is Filipino Martial Arts dueling teaches lessons far more than just fighting skills. They include adaptability, mental discipline, practical application, and respect, all of which are ingrained in Filipino culture. Duelists foster personal development, perseverance, and a stronger bond with their ancestry in addition to honing their fighting techniques. The lessons of duelo remain incredibly relevant in a society where personal growth and self-defense are valued more and more, which is why it is an essential component of the FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) experience.

    ReplyDelete
  23. the character has since appeared as both a supervillain and a superhero

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  24. Arnis, and Kali. These martial arts are known for their accentuation on weapons-based combat, especially with sticks, blades, and knives, Duelo, or dueling, is such an seriously and crude expression of Filipino martial arts (FMA). It's more than fair a fight of ability; it's a test of timing, procedure, and nerve. The accuracy and ease of Eskrima, Arnis, or Kali truly come lively in that one-on-one context. You're not just learning procedures; you feel the weight of tradition, teach, and survival instincts passed down through generations. In each strike and counter, there's a association to the warrior soul that characterizes FMA.

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  25. Before reading this I did have ideas about duels before, having been interested historical and fantastical stories. Duels were common for both medieval fantasy and historical stories. I've always seen duels as something that tows the line between barbaric and refined. It has a sense of prestige over it yet often it is merely done for petty squables taken into the extreme. After reading this it only enhanced my facination about duels, as I have heard before War duels were common and smart ways to settle conflicts in the utilitarian sense. Why sacrifice all your army if you can simply put a single man against one of the enemy's. Now with my eyes being opened to the concept of Arnis being tied to dueling culture it certainly intrigues me into trying to learn Arnis and lern how to fight.

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  26. This blog gives different kinds of knowledge, but each of them has a vital role for the history and identity of the main topic. In summary, my reaction after reading this blog is that it gives me goosebumps every time I imagine that this duels can truly kill a person. Yes, it can really happen, especially before, but in this era sometimes we see that they use this kind of duel for competition and recreational activities, just like what they have mentioned above. That is why it feels like new to me every time I think of it as a bloody duel. Also, most of all, I am thrilled to know that this culture is still alive, up until today. - BAE 2-1 (202303244)

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  27. Arnis is one of the well-known martial arts in the Philippines; we are aware of it, but we Filipinos never knew its history. It starts with Duelo, which introduces us to the tradition of Filipino martial arts. It was dangerous at first, but it was modified to what it is today. Until now, we practice Filipino martial arts, which practice self-discipline, awareness, respect, protection, and confidence. It is great to see that we keep this tradition by providing some information and history about Filipino martial arts. Let us show support and appreciation for Filipino martial arts for us to preserve our own culture. 

    BAE 2-1
    202302188

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  28. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  29. The blog on Duelo and Filipino Martial Arts is quite fascinating because arnis equips us with self-defense skills. Students should keep in mind key values such as character, sincerity, discipline, self-control, etiquette, and loyalty.

    Arnis presents a unique challenge for everyone, showcasing various skills, particularly in self-defense. This blog focuses on mastering self-defense techniques in arnis, which traditional practitioners refer to as "laban-laro."

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  30. BAE 2-1 (202302024)

    An informative blog like this is beneficial to those who want to learn about the history of dueling in relation to Filipino Martial Arts. This blog emphasizes the major points of dueling, such as how it began, its significance in the arts and sports in countries that still practice it, and how it influences the cultures of each country. Knowing the history of dueling, it's kind of sad that the church considered it sinful, prohibiting participants from having Christian burials. It's fascinating to me that some traditions and cultures that people once practiced are gradually being limited, and their main essence is no longer recognized. However, given that dueling is a risky way to demonstrate honor or courage, I can see why some laws prohibit the practice. On the other hand, it's good to know that in some way we Filipinos still practice this martial art in which we showcase our strength, courage, and respect for one another through arnis.

    ReplyDelete
  31. BAE 2-1 (202304094)

    This blog will have a historical importance of dueling between European and Filipino contexts. It would show how dueling transformed from being a self-administered way of achieving honor to a channeled entity, which mirrors the broader transformation of society at large. There's so much information regarding terms and types of duels within the context of Filipino martial arts that presents variations in the tradition itself, which would show cultural nuances an route. In short, it would be a good example of complexities and legacies in combat practices across cultures.

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  32. It's really fun reading this type of essay, it may be old but you will learn a lot about many kinds of duels. Some parts of the essay will teach you about the history and how this "duel" started. It's really interesting when I read the part of duel in FMA that according to Rollo in 2022, (the type of duel was the “duel of honor.”) the way they test their skills under formality is so cool in how they respect each other when they fight for honor. This kind of cultures is really nice and helps us to understand how really important sportsmanship. For me, this kind of blog may be needed to our future, because it will guide students in right way using arnis and it may be help us to gain skill.

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  33. Martial arts for me were really a big in sports and health event when I was in high school. At that time, I asked myself if I were to pick my own martial arts style, I would pick our own country’s style called arnis. Back then when they were first introduced this to us, I already felt cool by touching those two rattan sticks and swagger in front of the crowd. Our teachers instructed the basics and combos, it felt good executing it. I imagined that I was the Filipino hero that uses arnis to preserve the order of our province. Few years after that, we made an activity where we draw our own comics and I was inspired from idea of sports comic with arnis. I entitled my comic book “Kaliradman,” meaning another word for arnis. I made the plot of having duels, familial dynasties, feuds, rebellion and heroism. The protagonist was from a rock-bottom that rises up from despair by following his mentor and having the hard work and persistence. This was my only background on this matter because I have not delved too deep to the lore of arnis.
    After reading this blog, I was amazed about the history that I have overlook when I was in high school. There are key words that I should have applied in my comics and add few twists to it like from what I recently learned that they did not make a Catholic burial for Dagohoy who lost and died from the duel. Learning the history where it started and how it develops helps me to understand and love the way of our fighting. This cultural art made me realize that your stick is not a weapon, it is our extended hands.

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  34. BAE 2-1 202304484

    Dueling is known as a quasi-legal method of resolving conflict in the European states during the medieval era. Before Arnis became a now known sport among the Filipinos, I have learned from the blog that it has a rich bloodied history in which in the western countries; there were duels held to formalize a fight to resolve the conflict between two people, or lead to an armed combat. The Philippines adapted the traditional duels of Spanish in Filipino martial arts which uses sticks and blades weapons and is now performed as a sport and being taught in the academe. Dueling became illegal because it depicts violence as it is one among the three major sins based on the claims of the church. In the current time, dueling in the form of an arnis sport is now recognized as a cultural investment of which until now, it is performed in tournaments and competitions.

    Learning about the history of how traditional Arnis is a cultural reset from dueling, it amazes me as this was done then only to resolve conflicts among farmers and now, it is an esteemed sport.

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  35. After reading the blog Swordsman's Journey, particularly Duel and Filipino Martial Arts, gave me a better understanding of the history of this sport. A duel is fighting or sparring in which two people square up with swords or sticks in hand. It's important to acquire self-defense, speed, and control in addition to winning. This sport can benefit us in many ways and isn't only about two people battling against each other. It imparts discipline, bravery, and strength to us. Engaging in Duel and FMA exercises can improve our capacity to focus, show others respect, and regulate our emotions. Additionally, it fosters virtues like patience, humility, and collaboration.

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  36. This story highlights the tradition of dueling in Filipino martial arts and its deep roots in both European and Filipino cultures. As a student, I find it interesting that duels, once a way to settle disputes and prove honor, were very dangerous but respected in the past. Today, dueling is illegal, and rightfully so, as it puts lives at risk. The shift from deadly combat to safer arnis competitions reflects how society has grown to prioritize safety and peaceful conflict resolution. This evolution shows that while traditions are important, modern laws protect people from unnecessary harm.

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