Fifteen Years Later: Remembering Great Grandmaster Ernesto A. Presas

Fifteen years ago today, Great Grandmaster Ernesto A. Presas passed away. I didn’t spend as much time with him as I did with his older brother, Remy, but the moments I did have with Ernesto are ones I’ll always treasure.

Every person who enters your life brings something unique – lessons, insights, and perspectives that shape the way you think and grow. Martial arts are much the same. It’s not just about the physical techniques, but the people and philosophies behind them that change how you see the art — and yourself.

Ernesto helped me elevate my double stick training to a higher level of understanding and precision. But even more than that, he gave me something deeper: a genuine connection to the Philippines.

I was supposed to join Remy on his final trip at the end of 1999, but the timing didn’t work out. Seven years later, Ernesto invited me to his world camp – and that trip changed everything. I met so many of his students from around the world, but what meant the most was walking the same beaches where the Presas family grew up. I even had the chance to visit Remy’s grave – alone, in a quiet, private moment that Ernesto made sure I could have. That act of kindness meant the world to me.

Ernesto treated me like family. Part of that, I think, was because I helped bring the brothers back together before Remy passed. But he also opened doors for me – introducing me to people across the Philippines, helping me find my own path and connections there.

So, on this 15th anniversary of his passing, I find it fitting that I’m here – in the Philippines – staying at the same hotel where I stayed on my very first visit. This is my eleventh trip to these islands, with more still to come. Each time, I deepen my understanding of the people, the culture, and the roots from which our art was born.

Thank you, Ernesto, for everything you did for me – for welcoming me into your martial family and for guiding me toward my own place in the Presas legacy. I continue to share your stories and lessons with my students, keeping your spirit alive in every class, every conversation, and every swing of the stick.

Salamat po, Great Grandmaster Ernesto A. Presas.
Yours,
Datu Tim Hartman
Presas Family Arnis