RIP GM Roberto Presas

I’m writing this from Manila, Philippines, where I’m attending Bobby Taboada’s World Camp. Yesterday, I found myself reflecting – it’s been exactly 15 years since we lost Ernesto Presas. And now, just one day later, his younger brother Roberto has passed away.

Roberto was the last of the three kings of the Presas family of Arnis. If you’ve never heard much about him, it’s not because he lacked skill or significance. Quite the opposite – he chose a path of quiet strength and support. He stood behind his two older brothers, Remy and Ernesto, helping them build their legacy while dedicating himself to teaching at home in the Philippines.

I first met him in 2007, on my very first trip here. He personally took me to visit Remy Presas’s grave – making sure no one else was around – so I could have a private moment to say goodbye to my teacher. That simple act meant the world to me. From that trip forward, every time I traveled to Negros, I made a point to visit Roberto at his home. We shared many great conversations and memories.

One story that still makes me smile: his wife once told me she thought Arnis had “taken away” his two brothers, and that she gave him an ultimatum – stay home, or continue training and traveling alone. I laughed and said, “Well, clearly he made the right choice!” But funny enough, whenever I visited and she wasn’t home, Roberto always seemed to be waiting near the front door – with a stick in hand. And somehow, every visit turned into me buying a few sticks for my students! I think it’s safe to say that his love for the art never left him – he just trained when no one was watching.

We all know Remy was the founder of Modern Arnis. He was ten years older than his brothers, but when they came of age, Ernesto and Roberto were right there with him, helping shape what became one of the most influential Filipino martial arts in the world. Each brother had his own style, his own expression of the art. Roberto went on to found Hinigaran Arnis de Mano, a system closely related to Modern Arnis but with its own unique flavor – particularly in stick and dagger work.

Whenever his older brothers spoke about him, it was always with warmth and pride. Now, with Roberto’s passing, we’ve lost the last of the Presas brothers – the final direct link to the roots of the family art.

All we can do now is honor them by carrying the art forward – evolving, yet staying true to the heart of what they created: Modern Arnis, Kombatan, and Arnis de Mano.

People often say their loved ones are in a better place when they pass, and while I understand that sentiment, I’ve always felt the best place is still here with us. Still, I can’t help but smile at the thought of the reunion happening now in heaven – three brothers together again.

Tito Berto, you will be deeply missed. Please say hello to your brothers for me. And while I’m not in any rush to join you, I do look forward to the day we’re all reunited again – training, laughing, and sharing stories once more.

Respectfully,
Tim Hartman
World Modern Arnis

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