One of only a few books on the subject written by a native-born Filipino author, "Arnis Self-Defense" offers a twofold, interrelated focus. It first looks at the unique Filipino culture -- how it was greatly influenced by Spanish colonization, the oppression it suffered under foreign rule, and how the desire for freedom led to the development of the martial art of "arnis." The book then presents the distinct technical aspects of this indigenous fighting art. Centering on the Kombatan method forged by Grandmaster Ernesto Presas Sr., it describes numerous maneuvers utilizing stick, blade, and empty-hand components and details their myriad practical applications. A wealth of photographs and drawings clearly illustrate the principles and techniques described. The author depicts "arnis" in its true light, as a simple, pragmatic method of self-defense, while debunking the more fanciful theories surrounding it as it surges in popularity.
