Reflections from the Philippines
Every opportunity, every challenge, every direction my life has taken – all started with a single choice.
As a kid, I always wanted to do martial arts. I didn’t have the means, but I had the drive. When I finally got the chance, I went for it. Who would’ve guessed that one decision would lead me into Filipino Martial Arts – a path few knew about back then, but one of the most beautiful, diverse, and culturally rich systems in the world?
From the start, I didn’t just focus on one thing. I threw myself into it all – sport martial arts, self-defense, and other systems that could make me a better martial artist and teacher. That hunger to grow shaped everything that came next.
Before long, I was teaching… and not long after that, I became a direct student of the late Grandmaster Remy Amador Presas, the founder of Modern Arnis. It wasn’t something I planned – it was something that grew out of passion, persistence, and a commitment to the art.
That drive eventually led me to create Horizon Martial Arts – and I’m proud to say it became the only successful full-time Modern Arnis school under Professor Presas.
It wasn’t just a school – it was a community. A family. We didn’t just produce the most black belts in the system – we produced quality martial artists and great people. Professor recognized that, often mentioning it at events. And eventually, he gave me one of the greatest honors of my life – naming me the last Datu.
From there, the journey took off. I started teaching across the U.S. and around the world – bringing Modern Arnis to places even Professor hadn’t reached before his passing. My work opened doors into sports, law enforcement, and even the entertainment industry. It’s been an amazing ride, filled with lessons, memories, and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Then came another big decision – stepping into social media.
Within a year, I became one of the most recognized voices for Filipino Martial Arts online. Helping people find schools, connect with instructors, and learn more about the art has been one of my proudest accomplishments.
Sure, not everyone likes my content – and that’s fine. I grew up in a time when, if you didn’t like what was on TV, you just changed the channel. Same rule applies here.
What truly matters are the people who stop me in airports, hotels, and shopping malls – especially here in the Philippines – just to say, “Thank you for promoting our culture. Thank you for giving Filipino Martial Arts more visibility.” That means the world to me.
And now, things have grown even more. I’ve got a popular podcast reaching audiences around the world, multiple online instructional video series helping students train anywhere, and I’m writing for a martial arts magazine – with even more exciting things on the way.
Through it all, one thing stands out: gratitude.
The list of people I want to thank is far too long. After four decades in martial arts, I’ve been blessed by so many who’ve helped along the way. Every student who’s walked through my doors wasn’t just a student – they were a training partner. We learned from each other. We built friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
To my colleagues – my mentors, training partners, and friends — thank you. You’ve guided me, opened doors, and offered advice when I needed it most. I’ve tried to pay it forward, just like you did for me.
Right now, I’m here celebrating my good friend, Grandmaster Bobby Taboada’s birthday. Over the past few days, I’ve met so many people – some new, some I’ve known for decades – all connected through this art we love. And it’s funny… people who might not agree with me online often walk up and say, “You know, you’re actually a really nice guy!” (Usually it’s the MMA and BJJ folks, lol.) That’s the beauty of real conversation – it builds understanding.
When I take a step back, I’m humbled. Could things be better? Sure. But they could also be worse. I’m alive, on my own two feet, doing what I love, surrounded by incredible people. Honestly, who could ask for more?
So, to everyone who’s been part of my journey – thank you. For those who ask how I’ve managed to do all this, the answer is simple: I made the decision… and I did the work.
The past few months have been a blur – seminars, events, and travel almost every weekend. It’s tiring, but when I’m on the floor surrounded by people who love this art, it all makes sense. This is where I belong.
Anyway, I should probably wrap this up. There’s a super typhoon heading toward Manila – maybe I should start looking for a boat or a life preserver, just in case, lol.
Respectfully,
Datu Tim Hartman
World Modern Arnis
