TAPONDO DEMO AT GAISANO SAN CARLOS

Members of Tapondo International Federation Inc. demonstrate self defense against multiple attackers in a file photo taken during the 1st Pr. Macanpiña Martial Arts Expo last August 28, 2004 at the Prk. Macanpiña Basketball Court, Prk. Macanpiña, Brgy. 6, Bacolod City.

This article appeared in the October 17, 2005 issue of Negros Daily Bulletin.

Tapondo International Federation Inc. (TIFI)-San Carlos Chapter of instructors Danny Lopez Sensei and Florencio Yap sensei presented a tapondod emonstration last November 6, 2005, 3:00-5:00 P.M., at the Gaisano City San Carlos Supermall, San Carlos City.

Invited TIFI chapters were Bacolod under Negros Chief Instructor Roy R. Flores Sr. Sensei, Calatrava Chapter under Danny Lopez Sensei, and Toboso Chapter under Basilio de la Torre Sensei.

Non-black belt TIFI members demonstrated the standard tapondo breakfalling techniques, women's and children's practical self defense, and defense against multiple attackers. Black belt members performed knife defense and knife fighting using live blades.

Flores sensei explained the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of the amrtial arts, of which tapondo is one. He narrated the principles and body dynamics behind the different tapondo techniques. Then he showed various defenses against gun threats and some grappling techniques.

Flores Sensei is ranked 4th degree black belt with the Tapondo International Federation Inc. under Master Ambrosio "Monching" Gabileño, the founder of tapondo (a.k.a. combat aikido).