FMA Escrima Training, Masters, Teaching, Disarming
In this episode, Mark V. Wiley sits down with Grandmaster Dan Medina, one of the most respected figures in Filipino martial arts, to explore a lifetime devoted to training, teaching, and preserving the traditions of Eskrima.
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Dan recounts his introduction to Filipino martial arts while stationed in the Philippines in the late 1970s, where he trained in Arnis 63 Generals, Kuntaw, Kyokushin Karate, Batangas Arnis, and Sphinx Karate. He shares stories of studying under legendary teachers including Narrie Babao, Manny Deleon, Braulio Pedoy, Faustino Ablin, and Floro Villabrille, offering a rare glimpse into a generation of masters whose knowledge helped shape modern FMA.
The conversation examines the evolution of Dan’s teaching methods, his progression-based approach to training, and the importance of developing practical skill rather than merely collecting techniques. Dan discusses the differences between stick and blade methods, transitioning from weapons to empty-hand applications, counter-locking methods, and the unique principles of Derobio Escrima. |
Along the way, he reflects on tournament competition, law enforcement training, cross-training in multiple systems, memorable encounters with fellow martial artists, and the responsibility of preserving traditional knowledge for future generations.
The discussion concludes with insights into Dan’s Majapai system, his book, The Secret Art of Derobio Escrima, and his thoughts on continuing to grow, teach, and contribute to the martial arts community as he enters his seventies.
Check out this episode!
Dan Medina’s Book
In The Secret Art of Derobio Escrima, Grandmaster Dan Medina takes readers into the lives and history of two legendary men from Leyte. The book explores the roots, methods, and inner workings of Derobio Escrima, including its bone and joint crushing methods and countering principles.
The Secret Art of Derobio Escrima is the first book to look deeply into this battle-tested Filipino martial art.
About Dan Medina
Grandmaster Dan Medina’s martial arts journey spans over four decades. He began training with Judo and Navy Seal Quick-Kill methods, later immersing himself in Philippine martial arts including Arnis, Kuntao, and Modern Arnis.
In 1986, he became a disciple of Great Grandmaster Braulio T. Pedoy and his son, Batikan Eduardo J. Pedoy, mastering the art of Derobio Escrima. Dan Medina is the founder of Majapai, a comprehensive system blending multiple Filipino and Asian martial arts.
Preserving the past. Publishing the present. Transmitting to the future.
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