Accountability Isn’t Being a Hater—It’s About Protecting the Truth

Let’s clear something up—especially within the Modern Arnis community—accountability is not the same as persecution.

When I speak up to correct something, it’s not about attacking anyone. It’s not about being petty, even if it might come off that way to some. It’s about making sure the right information is out there. That matters—especially when we’re dealing with history, lineage, and the legacy of Professor Presas. Words carry weight, and when people throw them around carelessly, they can twist the narrative, whether they mean to or not.

I’ve had people dissect things I’ve said, cherry?picking one sentence while ignoring the full context—just to try to discredit the point I’m making. But when I speak, it’s with purpose: to be accurate, to be fair, and to keep the story of our art intact.

Here’s an example: if someone says something happened in 2005 when it really happened in 1999, that’s not a small detail. That’s a huge shift. Professor Presas was still alive in 1999. He wasn’t in 2005. That difference changes the entire context—who was involved, what influence was present, and how the event fit into the bigger picture of Modern Arnis history.

Now, I’ll admit—there have been times I’ve spoken up and it might’ve felt like I was being petty. But let’s be real: I’ve been accused of things, and when the truth comes out—when it’s proven I was right or not guilty of what I was being blamed for—I do feel vindicated. And yes, I sometimes bring that to light. Not to say “I told you so,” but to clear the air and set the record straight.

The reality is, when you’re the one consistently holding people accountable, it becomes easy for others to paint you as the bad guy. They start looking for reasons to discredit you, to twist your words, or to question your motives. But accountability isn’t about being liked—it’s about being honest. And I’ll always choose truth over popularity.

At the end of the day, it’s not about putting people down. It’s about lifting up the truth and making sure the legacy we’re all a part of gets the respect it deserves. Nothing more, nothing less.

Respectfully,
Datu Tim Hartman
World Modern Arnis