Having formally trained in the Martial Arts for over 20 years, I was exposed to an array of teaching approaches and philosophies. This vast experience allows me to measure the efficiency and effectiveness of various training methods. It is through this exposure that I have adopted, developed and continue to refine my personal curriculum.

There are 2 approaches I adhere to when teaching. I label them "for the street" and “for the arena" with DEFENSE as the initial focus. The reason for this is to make a distinction in training techniques for self-defense vs. sparring. Self-defense is a reaction prompted by a non-consenting action at any given time and place. Subsequently, we start at different ranges, from different postures and focus on isolated attacks be it against and/or with use of weapons and empty-hands. The premise of this training utilizes the acronym "CCC" for Clear, Counter & Control. In sparring, combatants give mutual consent and for the most part engage from a specific range with a dueling mindset. However, I strongly believe that sparring can aid an individual in preparing for the realities of a street attack. Although these types of situations cannot be duplicated, there are common, key elements such as unpredictability and aggression.

Quite often we hear criticism about the effectiveness or use of particular techniques during sparring. This simple approach along with modified training methods provides a comprehensible resolve to such challenges.

All the drills I utilize are target specific to develop & improve certain attributes. Drills are NOT used to measure progress. Whether we are working on focus mitt, impact, isolation or scenario drills to sparring…students are constantly encouraged and reminded to approach it with 100% intensity while maintaining a combat mindset. This mentality prompts the students to act or react in the most realistic manner or with a combat mindset. The indigenous fighting arts of the Philippines evolved from Jungle Warfare, hence combat tested. It should be preserved, propagated and taught as such with simplicity in mind.

The training environment is informal. Belts and rankings are non-existent. A student's progress is based on effort and/or how well he can perform under stress not by how much material he/she can retain. My only goal is for the student to leave each session with confidence in himself and what has been taught.

SWACOM’s 5 Elements of Training

1. The Mindset
2. Cover Mechanisms
3. Implements
4. Bridging
5. Tested not Theory

The concept for the logo was to include several elements that to me; signify the Filipino warrior culture and simply intertwine them. My somewhat contemporary approaches (and/or lack of artistic abilities) resulted in a triangular formation using a shield like silhouette, and complete it with the elements taken from the Philippine flag.

Below to the left, is symbolic of the ripple effect in the water when a pebble is dropped. There are two meanings to it, the first stands for "evolution or to evolve with time". The second meaning is growth. As a teacher, the first and foremost traits I establish are a sense of friendship and trust. And through this, we can bond and develop through the most progressive and aggressive nature of training to become the warriors we wish to be.

To the compliment right is an abstract configuration of several principle thoughts relative to the FMA such as the "Theory of the Triangle", Angles of Attack and Centerline or Line of Attack.

And lastly on the center bottom is the official Bakbakan International (fighting sabong) logo.

The cost for hosting a 2-day seminar (4 hrs. each day) in the U.S. & Canada is $1,200 plus $10/per person over 10 attendees. Other than local events the following compensation requests are required: roundtrip ticket with major airline from most convenient airports at origin and destination points, hotel and accommodations throughout extent of event including transportation to/from airports and venue location.

A 2-day International Seminar (4-hrs. each day) is US $1,500.00 plus US$10/per person over 10 attendees. Additional compensation requests are: roundtrip ticket with major airline from most convenient airports at origin and destination points, hotel and accommodations throughout extent of event including transportation to/from airports and venue location.