THE UST Filipino Martial Arts Group (FMA) held its first Filipino-produced martial arts documentary screening in Albertus Magnus auditorium last September 29.
The documentary “The Bladed Hand” tells the nature of the “Eskrima” and its global impact in the world of martial arts.
Producer and director Jay Ignacio geared the film to introduce the origins of the “Eskrima,” from the practices and clans, to its involvement in shaping other foreign martial arts, and lastly, how it caught even the attention of Hollywood choreography.
Ignacio wanted to dedicate his work as a tribute to the legacy of the most well-known modern practitioner, “Tatang” Ilustrisimo, of whom many modern FMA practitioners revere to this day.
Ignacio also said his other inspiration in making this film were the fellow Filipino Martial Arts practitioners he met. He wanted to share the passion with present and to-be enthusiasts and express his love for Filipino culture and martial arts.
Just in its first year, UST FMA is the first university-wide student organization that focuses on the proliferation, enlightenment, and teaching of the art known as Kali, Eskrima, or Arnis.
By Miguel Luis M. Galang
