Filipino Martial Arts

The Philippines possesses one of the world’s richest martial traditions. Known by names such as Arnis, Eskrima, Kali, Panantukan, and Sikaran, these systems evolved through centuries of tribal conflict, cultural exchange, foreign occupation, and practical self-defense. Most share a foundation in weapons training, emphasizing sticks, blades, impact weapons, and the empty-hand skills that support them.

Tambuli Media is dedicated to preserving and promoting Filipino martial arts through books, articles, videos, interviews, and educational resources. For more than four decades, founder Mark V. Wiley has traveled throughout the Philippines studying with grandmasters, documenting traditions, and building one of the most extensive private archives devoted to the martial arts of the islands.

Explore the books, interviews, articles, and archival materials below to discover the systems, masters, and traditions that continue to shape Filipino martial arts today.