PEKITI TIRSIA KALI

Pekiti-Tirsia is strictly a combat-oriented fighting system, as opposed to sport-focused, style of Filipino Martial Arts. Weapon categories include: Single/double stick (single/double sword) Single/double knife Espada y Daga (long blade and knife) Sibat (spear) Empty-handed techniques and grappling (dumpag – pangamot+ dumog) Flexible weapons (sarong, malong, belt, whip) Axe (wasay) Shield (taming) Modern weapons : Firearms, baton, tactical flashlight, weapons of opportunity, and other tools ​ In Ilongo/Bisaya, Pekiti means “to get in close". Tirsia, derived from Spanish tercer, means "third". The Pekiti Tirsia Kali system provides the tools needed to move in so close to the opponent using multiple combinations of offensive and/or counter-offensive attacks, leaving no space for escape.

The Mastery of a set of movements requires hard work and full time dedication. In the Pekiti-Tirsia Kali system mastery is acquired by the application of movements through distance sparring and close-in technical exchange by use of countering and re-countering methods. There is only one set of fighting principles and movement - no matter if attacker or defender is armed or unarmed. This structure allows a more economic use of practice time and creates confidence by understanding and experience. If a method works against an opponent armed with a knife, it also works against the unarmed opponent. This is known as the principle of transferable technology.

Full understanding of Pekiti-Tirsia leads to continuous improvement and continued adaptation of its methods to new demands. Pekiti-Tirsia Kali today is a valuable and practical Survival Art. It is effective in combat and indispensable for today’s heroes of the law enforcement, military, and security communities. This is the ancient art for modern times.An important part of Pekiti-Tirsia Kali is its positive, life appreciating philosophy: To believe in Life, in Good Health, and to believe in Success. Respect, etiquette, and professionalism are essential.​A skilled fighter does not rely on brute muscle power, but on speed, timing, precision and co-ordination, Pekiti-Tirsia offers convenient and logical methods against stronger opponents – no matter if knife, empty hands, or other combat.

Guru Besar Jerry is the Ohio State and Western Michigan Representative for PTK under Tuhon Mel Tortal.