Presas Arnis vs. Presas Legacy – Understanding the Difference
I’m often asked about the difference between Presas Arnis, which I teach, and the Presas Legacy organization in the Philippines. The explanation is simple: I represent the family systems directly.
I was fortunate to have a relationship with all three Presas brothers. I studied under Grandmaster Remy until his passing in 2001 and helped the brothers reconnect before their time together was cut short. During that time, I also trained in Kombatan under Great Grandmaster Ernesto, who promoted me to 9th degree and Grandmaster in 2007.
When I taught seminars, I combined material from both brothers. To avoid debates about which version was “correct,” I used the name Presas Arnis as an umbrella. In 2012, shortly after Ernesto’s passing, I officially launched the Presas Arnis brand, while continuing to certify students in both Modern Arnis and Kombatan.
By 2018, at the Kombatan Super Camp in Finland, we were already using the Presas Arnis name prominently. Others later followed this trend. Eventually, the Presas Legacy organization was formed in the Philippines to umbrella all Presas family systems for those without a direct connection to the brothers.
Am I part of that group? No. I have a direct relationship with the Presas brothers and still maintain a close friendship with Roberto, the surviving brother. My teaching record stands on its own, with seminars across many states and countries each year.
I understand why some might join an umbrella organization for community or guidance. Everyone has their own path. For me, Presas Arnis stands on its own, separate from the Presas Legacy group.
I hope this clarifies things for everyone.
Respectfully,
Tim Hartman
Datu – GM Presas Family Arnis
CEO, World Modern Arnis Alliance
