This Just In...

In Loving Memory of My Father

Dr. Nestor V. Jacobo
March 10, 1932 - September 17, 2006

Invitational Seminar Bedford, PA
July 23-24, 2010

Experience the Combat Tested Strategies & Techniques of Kali Ilustrisimo and the Counter Knife Methods of SWACOM

The topics will include Kali Ilustrisimo as taught by Master Christopher "Topher" Ricketts. Learn the simple yet devastating techniques including Salok, Circular, Pluma, Vertical, Sungkit and more. Understand the "flow" and how to control your range through the component drills leading to KI's trademark flow drill, "Cuatro Cantos". The importance of any fighting art relies on universal principles, timing, controlling of range to name a few. Attendees will train in a manner wherein these traits will be inherited resulting in a better understanding of function no matter what system or style you train in.

The second day will be devoted to "Defense Methods - Edge Weapon Awareness and Readiness". This has been an on-going proven development into practical edge weapon defense. Rooted in FMA, the counter-measures taught will differ considerably from more commonly seen "tapping" methods. With an emphasis on principles and most importantly mindset, the training methodologies focus on force-on-force methods. Not only will you enhance your physical skill set but test your mental control under duress.

In a violent altercation, many variables can work against you. Learn how to negate these variables with your own back-up plan and tools.

What to bring: Aside from an open-mind...a training sword(if you have one), training knives, sticks and dulo-dulo (aka kubotan or yawara)

MINIMUM REQUIRED PROTECTION ARE: Mouthpiece, cup and goggles Sparring gear for empty-hand and weapons is optional.

Those interested may contact Guro John directly via the email provided on this site or call 623-249-8802.

  • Location: TBA for attendees
  • Cost: $75/day or $110/both days

Valley of the Sun Chapter

The "Valley of the Sun" Chapter recently opened doors (or should I say, garage) to FMA enthusiasts on the West Valley in Arizona. The “backyard” training group is lead by Guro John Jacobo who adheres to the highest standards of philosophy, teaching approach, training methodology and most importantly integrity. Traits he encouraged with his students since SWACOM's inception in 2004.

These traits anchor my beliefs as an instructor and student of the martial arts. In over 25 years of involvement, I have come to know many “truths” in the Warrior Arts. And it is my responsibility to share these “truths” with students rather than mislead them with complicated and dragged out methods.

Training is conducted in the privacy of my home. Hence, the label of “backyard” training. There is nothing commercial in what I do. No marketing hype and false claims. I am not selling a style, system or affiliation. Rather, I am selling my passion for providing quality instruction. And this is the only way success is measured.

Guro John’s endeavor to open a Personal Protection Consulting & Training Center has lead him to develop several training programs that were designed to address a client’s specific want or need. In addition to offering the Filipino Martial Arts, personal training in the following programs will be offered.

Individual Client Programs:

Defense Methods-Edge Weapon Awareness & Readiness: Recognized as a favorable tool for intimidation, the hazards of an edge weapon has become even more prevalent. Learn how to deal with this ever growing threat!

Womens Tactical Empowerment (WTE): Sometimes saying no is just not enough. It takes both mind & body to bring down larger and stronger adversaries. Unleash the bodyguard in yourself and experience a personal one-to-one approach to women’s self-defense. (Privates ONLY - Contact John direct for more details)

The Traditions Remain (Maryland Chapter)

Since the relocation of Guro John to Arizona this past October, Maryland-based members continue to train regularly. These sessions are devoted to the Filipino Martial Arts and REAL World Self Defense.

The training, mindset and camaraderie have been the long time characteristics that have bonded this small but dedicated group. This is a place where individuals are open to both sharing and learning from one another. Only ego-free and like minded individuals need apply.

For more information on the Maryland Chapter, contact Vince Ford at: (410) 963-1455

Meet Your Training Partners

Lead Trainers (from A-Z):

  • John Bosch
  • Russell Brandford
  • Vince Ford
  • Don Penatzer
  • Mike Ponce

Members:

  • Leonard Anderson
  • Gary Boisen
  • Robert Brooks
  • Bill Brown
  • Stan Cheung
  • Brian Grant
  • Jason Grant
  • Al Sotto
  • Jeff Realo

Kali Ilustrisimo with Master Topher Ricketts

Private & Group Lessons Now Available in San Diego

Keep It Combat DVD Series - Now Available!


Volume I - The Combat Principles of De Cuerdas [DVD - 40 minutes]

Although there are several principles defined in DeCuerdas, this tape will take a look at the rebounding principle as it applies to feints known as enganyos, countering/recountering measures and understanding your opponent's opening.

For shipment within the
U.S. & Canada ($34.95):
For shipment outside the
U.S. & Canada ($39.95):

Volume II - Dos Manos Methods [DVD - 40 minutes]

This tape introduces the two-handed methods as it applies to longsword or staff. It includes footwork, striking methods, offensive/defensive use, short skirmish exercise and even reverts back to the Escalera DeCuerdas drill covered in Tape 1 to show it's versatility.

For shipment within the
U.S. & Canada ($34.95):
For shipment outside the
U.S. & Canada ($39.95):

Volume I & II - 2 DVD Set [Save $19.95!]

For shipment within the
U.S. & Canada ($49.95):
For shipment outside the
U.S. & Canada ($59.95):

*Payment by PayPal or credit card

Warrior Arts of the Philippines Book - Now Available!


$34.95

Profusely illustrated with over 1600 photos, this historical and highly informative publication is destined to become a classic and valuable resource on the Warrior Arts of the Philippines.

Featuring in-depth biographies, exclusive personal insights, and detailed combative applications, this exclusive collection by acclaimed Filipino martial arts expert, teacher, and writer, Rey Galang, presents the priceless legacy and cultural treasures of the manifold Filipino martial arts.

Discover the history, the strengths, and the secrets of six of the foremost systems in Philippine combat arts.

  • Balintawak Eskrima
  • Kali Ilustrisimo
  • Lameco Eskrima
  • Lightning Scientific Arnis
  • Modern Arnis
  • San Miguel Eskrima

Relive and experience the journeys of warriors past and present through the interviews and writings of the eminent masters and disciples of these celebrated combat arts.

Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: arjee enterprises inc. (April, 2005)
ISBN: 0972767916
Product Dimensions: 10.0 x 7.0 x 0.9 inches

Masters of the Blade Book Currently Out of Stock


In this truly groundbreaking masterpiece of academic research, highly acclaimed Filipino Martial Arts warrior and scholar, Rey Galang, collaborates with renowned “Masters of the Blade” to bare the heart and soul of the Filipino martial arts. In a presentation that goes beyond and across boundaries, discover the techniques, the training methods, the strategies and concepts that have been honed, tested and proven through centuries of combative application. Discover the essence of the Filipino Martial Arts that has made them respected and utilized worldwide by law enforcement officers, armed forces personnel, frontline operatives and members of the public interested in self-protection with and against edged weapons.

Destined to become another classic resource on the Warrior Arts of the Philippines, this massive collection, profusely illustrated with over 2700 photos, presents the core tactics and concepts of many world acclaimed edged weapon combative experts.

“One of the finest self-defense knife instructors I’ve had the pleasure to know is Master Reynaldo Galang of Bakbakan International. His ability to develop the reactions and quickness of his students while maintaining their safety in his training is outstanding. I’m honored to write the foreword for ‘Masters of the Blade’, his latest in a series of excellent books.” --- GM Bobby Taboada, Balintawak Arnis Cuentada

ISBN 0-9727679-2-4
Pages: 472
Product Dimensions: 10.0 x 7.0 x 1.0 inches
Publisher: arjee enterprises inc.
Library of Congress Control Number: 2005902486

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