From: eskrima-digest-owner@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com To: eskrima-digest@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Subject: Inayan_Eskrima/FMA-Digest V7 #334 Reply-To: eskrima@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Errors-To: eskrima-digest-owner@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com Precedence: Inayan_Eskrima/FMA-Digest Wed, 12 July 2000 Vol 07 : Num 334 In this issue: eskrima: fma San Diego, CA eskrima: DOS:TRAVEL Philippines Public Announcement 06/08/00 eskrima: Mime-Version: 1.0 eskrima: Mime-Version: 1.0 eskrima: Chicago Kali eskrima: . ========================================================================== Eskrima-Digest, serving the Internet since June 1994. 1100 members strong! Copyright 1994-2000: Ray Terry, the Martial Arts Resource, Inayan Eskrima Replying to this message will NOT unsubscribe you. To unsubscribe, send "unsubscribe eskrima-digest" (no quotes) in the body (top line, left justified) of a plain text e-mail addressed to majordomo@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com. To send e-mail to this list use eskrima@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com See the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) FAQ and online search the last five years worth of digest issues at http://www.MartialArtsResource.com Mabuhay ang eskrima! ---------------------------------------------------------------------- From: "Thread" Date: Wed, 12 Jul 2000 04:20:16 -0700 Subject: eskrima: fma San Diego, CA Howdy. I'm looking for a FMA instructor in San Diego, CA. My experience is low -- 3-4 months -- but my dedication is high. I'm open to whatever is available, but I'm interested in a teacher or school which is sparring intensive. I don't mind taking a few good smacks in the name of higher education. Thanks kindly in advance, Ken P.S. -- I'm also very interested in Dumog, if any San Diego schools or teachers can include that in their curriculum. Also, though all prior inquiries have come up totally blank, could anyone inform me if there are ANY Indonesian martial arts teachers in the San Diego ,CA region as well? ------------------------------ From: "Marc Denny" Date: Tue, 11 Jul 2000 17:20:00 -0700 Subject: eskrima: DOS:TRAVEL Philippines Public Announcement 06/08/00 A Howl of Greeting to All: This was forwarded to me and I thought some of you might find it of interest. Woof, Crafty Dog ----- Original Message ----- > From: U.S. State Department > To: > Sent: Friday, June 09, 2000 3:57 PM > Subject: DOSTRAVEL Philippines Public Announcement 06/08/00 > > > > PHILIPPINES - Public Announcement > > June 8, 2000 > > U.S. citizens should avoid travel to the southern and western areas of the Island of Mindanao, including General Santos City and Cotabato due to increased violence in the area. U.S. citizens should also avoid travel to the islands of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, and Jolo located in the Sulu archipelago in the extreme southwest of the Philippines. There have been sporadic incidents of violence in southern Mindanao. These incidents have included bombings in General Santos City and at the Cotabato Airport in Maguindanao Province, as well as bus hijackings on national highways in the region. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front reportedly has claimed responsibility for these actions. In addition to these most recent incidents, the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group has taken Filipino hostages on Basilan Island. There is continued concern that the Abu Sayyaf terrorist group may take additional actions against U.S. citizens and other foreigners throughout the Philippines to include but not limited to kidnappings and shootings. In a separate incident, several foreign tourists and staff at a Malaysian dive resort on the Malaysian island of Sipadan were kidnapped on April 23rd and brought to the Philippine island province of Sulu. The Abu Sayyaf group has claimed responsibility for this action. Before traveling to Mindanao or any of the other areas cited above, U.S. citizens should contact the American Embassy in Manila for the latest security information. Americans who are required to travel to these areas should review their security practices, remain vigilant to their surroundings and exercise caution. They should avoid large crowds and gatherings, keep a low profile, and vary routes and times of all travel. For further general information on travel to the Philippines, consult the Department's latest Consular Information Sheet for the Philippines. Travelers may also wish to review the Public Announcement for Malaysia, issued April 26, 2000. This Public Announcement supersedes the Public Announcement for the Philippines issued May 5, 2000 and supplements the Public Announcement for the Philippines issued May 18, 2000. This Public Announcement expires on September 8, 2000. PHILIPPINES - Public Announcement May 18, 2000 U.S. citizens should be aware of several security incidents that have occurred recently in the Manila metropolitan area. While the Communist New Peoples Army (NPA) has claimed responsibility for a grenade attack at the National Police headquarters, no group or individual has claimed responsibility for any of the other incidents; nor is there any indication at this time that they are linked to one another. On May 6, a bomb detonated in Luneta Park, central Manila, slightly injuring one person. On May 10, an explosive device was discovered and safely defused outside the main entrance of the National Museum. On May 11, the headquarters of a Philippine government agency in Quezon City was attacked with small arms fire and two grenades. On May 14, two rocket-propelled grenades were fired into Camp Crame, Philippine National Police headquarters, located in Quezon City. On May 16, a bomb threat was received at the residence of a U.S. Embassy employee. No device was found. On May 17, a bomb explosion inside the Glorietta Mall in Makati injured several people. The U.S. Embassy in Manila is advising its personnel and U.S. citizens in the Philippines to remain alert to their surroundings at all times. The embassy has recommended the following specific security precautions: never approach the scene of a bombing, and do not stand by during the initial investigative phase. Do not disturb a suspicious object or package. Depart the premises immediately and notify an appropriate official, such as a police officer or building guard. In addition, immediately notify the police of any other security incidents. U.S. citizens are also requested to report details of any security incidents to the U.S. Embassy. During working hours call 523-1001, ext. 2290. After hours or on weekends use extension 2688 or 2311. The embassy is located at 1201 Roxas Blvd., Manila City. For further general information on travel to the Philippines, consult the Department's latest Consular Information Sheet for the Philippines. Information may also be obtained from the embassy Web site at http://www.usembassy.state.gov/manila. This Public Announcement supplements the Public Announcement issued May 4, 2000, and expires on August 18, 2000. PHILIPPINES - Consular Information Sheet January 21, 2000 COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Philippines is a developing democratic republic located in South East Asia. The archipelago consists of more than 7,000 islands, of which 880 are inhabited. The major islands are Luzon in the north, Visayas in the center, and Mindanao in the south. Tourist facilities are available within population centers and main tourist areas. English is widely spoken in the Philippines, and most signs are in English. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: U.S. citizens are allowed to enter the Philippines without a visa upon presentation of their U.S. passport, which must be valid for at least six months after entry, and a return ticket to the U.S. or onward ticket to another country. Upon arrival, immigration authorities will annotate the U.S. passport with an entry visa valid for 21 days. If you plan to stay longer than 21 days, you will have to apply for an extension at the Philippine Bureau of Immigration and Deportation, Magallanes Drive, Intramuros, Manila, Philippines. There are special requirements for the entry of unaccompanied minors. Additional information concerning entry requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 467-9300, http://www.sequel.net/rpinus/wdc/, or from the Philippines Consulates General in Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco. SAFETY/SECURITY: The security situation has improved in most areas of the country in recent years. Most of the country is hospitable to travel. The government has been engaged on and off in negotiations with communist and Muslim rebels. Nevertheless, rebel activity and armed banditry in certain areas of the Philippines still poses potential security concerns. New Peoples Army insurgents remain active in some mountainous and jungle areas, including parts of Mindanao and Negros Island as well as Quezon Province and the Cordillera and Bicol regions of Luzon. In Mindanao, crime and insurgent activity may make travel hazardous to and within the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Sulu, Basilan, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, North and South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat. The threat of terrorist action by extremists, both domestic and foreign, does exist in the Philippines. There are periodic reports of plans for possible kidnapping or terrorist acts aimed at U.S. Government installations, public and private institutions and transportation carriers. Although there have been some attempts directed against U.S. interests, most of these reports have not been followed by terrorist action. Security is not a major concern at the popular tourist and diving sites. The State Department reminds all Americans traveling or living abroad of the need to remain vigilant with regard to personal security issues. With international events such as the actions against Iraq in 1999, the August 7, 1998 bombings of the U.S. Embassies in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam, the August 20, 1998 air strikes in Afghanistan and Sudan, and the apprehension of persons believed to be involved in the Embassy bombings, the potential for retaliatory acts against the official American community exists worldwide. Periodically, the U.S. Embassy receives credible threats directed against USG personnel and/or facilities. The Embassy takes these threats seriously, and they can usually be countered by following some very basic personal security countermeasures, which private Americans can also follow: Do not establish a pattern in movement and travel; times and routes should be varied to the extent possible. Maintain a low profile at all times, and immediately report any unusual activity, to include possible surveillance, to the Philippine police and Regional Security Office at the U.S. Embassy. Travelers are encouraged to call the U.S. Embassy for an update of the current security situation, especially if traveling outside the Manila metropolitan area. CRIME INFORMATION: As in many of the major metropolitan areas in the U.S., crime is a serious concern in Manila. As a rule of thumb, Americans are advised to exercise good judgment and remain aware of their surroundings. Reports of confidence games, pick-pocketing and credit card fraud are common. If someone offers you a deal that is too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of unknown individuals who attempt to befriend you, especially just after you have arrived in country. Criminals have administered drugs via proffered drinks to unwitting visitors in order to facilitate robbery and assault. Tourists frequenting lower quality nightclubs are particularly at risk. It is best not to flaunt your nationality and to maintain a low profile. Avoid wearing large amounts of jewelry, and do not carry large amounts of money. Visitors should take advantage of safety deposit boxes at hotels. Taxis are the recommended form of public transportation; however, the following safeguards are important: do not enter a taxi if it already has accepted another passenger, and also request that the meter be used. If the driver is unwilling to comply with your requests, it is best to wait for another cab. All other forms of public transportation, such as the light rail system, buses and jeepneys, should be avoided for both safety and security reasons. Visitors should also be vigilant when using credit cards. One form of credit card fraud involves the illicit use of an electronic device to retrieve and record information, including the PIN, from the card's magnetic strip. The information is then used to make unauthorized purchases. To limit your vulnerability to this scam, never let your card out of your sight. Major problems have occurred at large department stores and some hotel restaurants. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the Consular Agency in Cebu. U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey. The pamphlet is available by mail from the Superintendent of documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs, or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov. MEDICAL FACILITIES: Adequate medical care is available in major cities but is limited in rural and more remote areas. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost thousands of dollars or more. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. MEDICAL INSURANCE: U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties. Check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death. Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, "Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad," available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page or autofax: (202) 647-3000. OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299), or via their Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov. TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: Travel within the archipelago is possible by boat, plane, bus, or car. Few tourists rent a car to drive, as the road system is crowded and drivers are undisciplined. Driving off the national highways and paved roads is particularly dangerous, especially at night. To avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport, caution is urged in planning travel by older, inter-island ferryboats or other public conveyances. The information below concerning the Philippines is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance. Safety of Public Transportation: Poor Urban Road Constructions/Maintenance: Poor Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor For specific information concerning Philippine driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax and mandatory insurance, contact the Philippines Department of Tourism via http://www.tourism.gov.ph. AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the Philippines civil aviation authority as Category 1 - in compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of the Philippines' air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA Internet home page at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa/index.htm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the Department of Defense at 1-618-256-4801. CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Philippine laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties are strict for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and fines. Capital punishment is possible for certain drug-related crimes. Swindling and "bad debts" are also serious criminal offenses in the Philippines. The Philippine Government has very strict laws regarding the possession of firearms by foreigners and several foreigners have been sentenced to life imprisonment for bringing firearms into the country. Americans who are arrested overseas should immediately ask to speak to a U.S. Embassy representative. end quote--------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------ From: Luis Pellicer Date: Wed, 12 Jul 2000 08:46:34 +0800 Subject: eskrima: Mime-Version: 1.0 >Excellent description, Mr. Wee....I never saw these terms used until the >past 15 or 20 years....all of a sudden they pop up all over the place in >FMA circles. How far back have you seen them in use? > > Good point, can't speak on other countries, but I've never heard that term used here (Philippines), by a FMA teacher who didn't teach over seas. Not that I've met them all, (by no means) but first time I heard it was from foreigners. LPIII ------------------------------ From: Luis Pellicer Date: Wed, 12 Jul 2000 08:58:41 +0800 Subject: eskrima: Mime-Version: 1.0 >Maha (great) guru (teacher/master) are loan words from the Sanskrit >language and originate in Yoga traditions thousands of years ago in >Northern India. Ever wonder how these words made it into FMA? Jeff >Burke > Sanskrit words actually worked themselves into the Filipino languages, when the Spaniards "discovered" the Philippines there was trade going between us and China, Japan, India, among others. A class of people who existed before the Spanish colonization was called "Maharlika" or "noble-high people". The words are in the language, but never heard them used in the FMA before, at least in the Philippines. LPIII ------------------------------ From: RBalicki@aol.com Date: Tue, 11 Jul 2000 23:12:34 EDT Subject: eskrima: Chicago Kali Hi Jack, If you want the best school in Chicago or in the world for that matter check out the Degerberg Academy. They have about 6 to 7 Inosanto, Sulite and Cabalas instructors there. Degerberg Academy (773) 728-5300 Hope this helps. Ron Balicki In a message dated 07/11/2000 4:26:59 PM Pacific Daylight Time, eskrima-digest-owner@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com writes: << From: Jack Bessey Date: Tue, 11 Jul 2000 16:30:32 -0400 (EDT) Subject: eskrima: Chicago Training I may be moving to Chicago in the next month or so and would like to start searching for a FMA school. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Thank You >jackB. >> ------------------------------ From: Ray Terry Date: Tue, 11 Jul 2000 22:18:49 PDT Subject: eskrima: . ------------------------------ End of Inayan_Eskrima/FMA-Digest V7 #334 **************************************** To unsubscribe from the eskrima-digest send the command: unsubscribe eskrima-digest -or- unsubscribe eskrima-digest your.old@address in the BODY of an email (top line, left justified) addressed to majordomo@hpwsrt.cup.hp.com. Old digest issues are available via ftp://ftp.martialartsresource.com. Copyright 1994-2000: Ray Terry and the Martial Arts Resource Standard disclaimers apply.