THE ROUND TABLE of MODERN ARNIS:

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In medieval folklore, King Arthur created the “Round Table.” There was no “head” of the Round Table, rather a gathering of knights that represented equality, unity, loyalty and respect. King Arthur may have created it, but, like everyone else at the table, he merely held a seat amongst his fellow knights.

Likewise, when we lost GM Remy Presas, he was the hierarchy of Modern Arnis. When he died, the hierarchy died with him. Since the 2021 Tribute Camp in Cromwell, CT, there has been a tremendous increase in communication and interest in working together amongst the senior-most highest ranking students of GM Presas. This became even more evident at the 2023 World Modern Arnis Legacy Camp. As a result, there was no better time to call upon these individuals to unite at the “Modern Arnis Round Table.” In short, the hierarchy is gone, however, it is very clear that the way forward is through unity.

At a minimum, the Modern Arnis Round Table represents, excellence, unity, equality and respect for all – regardless of rank or title. By design, it is also free of politics, arrogance, toxicity and egos. In no way does it suggest that its members are better or superior. It is comprised of the senior-most highest ranking students of the late GM Remy Presas that choose to build each other up, not break each other down.

In no particular order, there are, Datu’s, Masters of Tapi Tapi, GM’s, Professor’s, several tenth degrees and several eighth degrees present at the Round Table. Ranks and titles aside, they have come together to celebrate GM Presas, to continue spreading the art of Modern Arnis, to preserve this Art for future generations and still continue to operate independently of one another as they have been doing for decades. Those seated at the table recognize there is something greater than any one individual and that is not only the legacy of our Teacher, but also the importance of preserving this amazing art as well as the “connections” the Professor shared while he was with us. The following individuals are currently part of the Modern Arnis
Round Table (in no particular order) Kelly Worden, Dan Anderson, Bambit Dulay, Bram Frank, Janet Aalfs, Tom Bolden, Rene Tongson, Dieter Knuttel, Roland Rivera, Bruce Chiu, Chad Bailey, Ray Dionaldo, Doug Pierre, Shishir Inocalla, Larry Rocha and Brian Zawilinski.

As a result of the Round Table, two specific efforts have been started:

The Round Table sessions – wherein an open and casual dialogue takes place amongst individuals in a recorded session that focuses on whatever topic is at hand. There are no egos, politics or negativity present during these sessions. The sessions serve as a means of archiving history, sharing information specific to Professor Presas, his beloved art of Modern Arnis, and current information for future generations. These sessions also serve as a means of keeping those attempting to rewrite Modern Arnis history in check. We have seen almost twenty-five individuals visit the Round Table since the sessions began and the dialogue and flow of information has been truly special. These individuals include folks that started training with Professor Presas as far back as the mid 1970’s!

The Evolution Project, of which, the purpose is to archive and openly share as much information as possible to preserve this amazing Art. This will be achieved in three phases:

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Phase One

A informative and detailed manuscript of Modern Arnis including terms, history and core technical material.

Phase Two

A series of technical demonstration videos to support the manuscript.

Phase Three

A monthly video release focusing on one drill or area at a time wherein the seniors will share their knowledge from the Professor, as well as innovations and updates from decades of practical experience.

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As a result of all of this activity, a new centralized website has been created. There will be access to the Evolution Project content, information for the biennial Modern Arnis World Legacy Camp, an events page for those wishing to post their respective flyers, a link to the Modern Arnis Round Table Youtube channel and worldwide Instructor contact information. No fees or memberships are required and there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone to be able to “connect” with one another from this website:

Respectfully, GMZ