Addressing Misconceptions:

Yet again, I encounter instances of my words being misrepresented. I noticed a slew of posts recently attempting to debunk a podcast we conducted on FMA Talk, wherein we examined the aftermath of Professor Presas’ passing and why things deteriorated. In this podcast, we discussed several factors that contributed to the consequences of his departure. We acknowledged, albeit subtly, the negative elements at play, but decided to shed light on underappreciated factors that might have had a more significant impact than commonly acknowledged.

We highlighted the infancy of the internet during that time and how access was limited, especially due to the absence of contemporary social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Another significant element was the sole existence of my martial arts school, Horizon Martial Arts in West Seneca, NY, as the only institution dedicated solely to Modern Arnis instruction at the time of the Professor’s passing.

After perusing the author’s attempt to debunk the discussed issues, he insinuated that I declared the art to be in decline. He further claimed that it was now stronger than ever. Upon revisiting the video, I found no mention of the art’s current state from me, although we are indeed in a process of rebuilding. The claim of it being stronger than ever is, however, misguided. The author, based in the geographically secluded Pacific Northwest, seems unaware that the Professor’s seminars were primarily conducted on the East Coast and the Midwest.

In my career, I’ve been to 180 events with Professor Presas, including 30 camps. The author, on the other hand, I’ve only encountered once at a seminar where he taught karate while I assisted with the Filipino martial arts segment. To form an educated opinion on the state of the art, one must be actively involved, which includes consistent interaction. For those who weren’t there during those times, let me illustrate a clearer image.

The art thrived from approximately 1995 until October 2000, when the Professor had to halt his teachings due to his brain tumor. Throughout this period, he held seminars on about 25 weekends annually, conducting two seminars each weekend that attracted between 50 to 60 participants on average. If we consider the Big 3 seminars Prof taught with Wally Jay and George Dillman, participant numbers could surge to 150-200. The Professor would conduct 6-10 camps per year, each with around 60 attendees. This reach is tremendous, setting a high benchmark for us. The numbers we’ve managed since his departure don’t even come close. Even if we compile all the activities across North America, it’s a feeble comparison. Things are getting better, but I believe many people underestimate the scale of the situation. This is why, when queried, I express uncertainty about the future, as most of Remy’s students lack the broader perspective I have gained from my travels. They don’t fully comprehend the number of followers we have lost and the vastness of what we once had.

Our podcast emphasized the less harmful aspects of our teacher’s loss. Things did crumble, but we started to rebuild. I invite your thoughts on the subject.

I anticipate writing more posts, given the frequent misquotation and misinterpretation of my words, or their manipulation to serve others’ interests.

Today marks a significant milestone in my martial arts journey. It’s been 35 years since I achieved the rank of Remy Presas Modern Arnis Black Belt. Little did I know that the simple act of picking up a stick at the Filipino Karate Academy would profoundly impact the course of my life. The path hasn’t been without its challenges, but the rewards have made it all worthwhile. Thanks to the guidance of Professor Presas, I have become one of the foremost authorities on Filipino martial arts globally.

Over the years, this journey has taken me down various paths, exposing me to diverse experiences that have facilitated personal growth. I ventured into the competitive arena, earning over six world titles and mentoring a group of world champion students. I had the privilege and honor of serving as an adjunct instructor for Sheepdog Kombatives, providing consultation to the Virginia Police Academy. Additionally, I had the opportunity to choreograph fight scenes for a handful of movies, which can be found on my IMDb page.

However, the most gratifying aspect of my career has been the local impact I’ve made. I’ve had the privilege of teaching individuals of all ages, including men, women, and children, fostering character development and enhancing gross motor skills. I’ve helped children struggling with focus and discipline issues, instilled confidence in college-bound teens, and provided a chance for individuals in their 30s, 40s, and beyond to improve their physical well-being. Through my school’s teachings, I believe I’ve been able to change the world one life at a time.

Reflecting on the past 35 years, I can confidently say that every moment has been worth it. Now, I eagerly look forward to the next 35 years and beyond, with the intention of defying average life expectancy and challenging the Social Security system single-handedly. Thank you, Remy, for entrusting me with the responsibility of carrying forward your remarkable legacy.

#modernarnis #DatuHartman #arnis #datu #Filipinomartialarts

The unveiling of the World Modern Alliance Panantukan program 2.0 was truly a triumph! The event was graced by attendees in person, from the vibrant states of Pennsylvania and New York, and even from our northern neighbor, Ontario, Canada. But the connection didn’t stop there, we also brought together a global digital audience, hailing from as close as Alabama, Ohio, Delaware, Texas, Oregon, and reaching across borders to Austria, Brazil, Canada, and Germany. A remarkable congregation indeed!

And what sets the release of 2.0 apart? The answer lies in the evolution of the program, from being a cross-training module to a standalone program, now complete with rank certification. We’ve meticulously crafted five distinct levels, each with its own technical and physical requirements, that will guide you on a journey to becoming a black belt trainer. It’s an opportunity that is nothing short of transformative.

The attendees’ feedback was overwhelmingly positive, resonating with appreciation and enthusiasm. We are already experiencing a wave of registrations for the upcoming session on August 19th, 2023, a testament to the program’s resonance with the community.

Each level of the program has been thoughtfully designed to offer a logical, straightforward progression, making the journey accessible and inviting. Excitingly, we are making provisional plans for our inaugural black belt grading, tentatively set for 2025.

For any inquiries or additional details, feel warmly invited to reach out to Hartman at the World Modern Arnis Alliance Headquarters. Join us in this exciting evolution of martial arts education.

Register for the August seminar below.