FILIPINOS are well-versed in sports across local and international tournaments. Yet, if you ask a local what sport they would think of first, it would be basketball, volleyball, or even boxing. We have developed a deep passion for Western sports that we neglect or undermine our traditional sports—a growing disinterest among Filipinos. Our sports deserve the same recognition and revival. Take a look at some that you should know:

Kick On!

     Sepak Takraw, or Sipa, combines martial arts and acrobatics. It is similar to volleyball, but players don’t use their hands to send the ball (woven rattan) flying over the net. With roots originating in 15th-century Southeast Asia, it began in Malaysia’s royal courts before spreading across neighboring countries. 

     It was once the Philippines’ national sport until Arnis replaced it in 2009. Last year, after being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our national team ended a 33-year medal drought by clinching bronze at the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games. One of its key players was Rheyjey Ortouste, also known as “Saw Saw Takraw.” Ortouste since then, has bid farewell to the sport, calling it his “last dance.” But his legacy lives on, as he won bronze and silver alongside Jason Huerte at the 2013 Southeast Asian Games (SEA) Games in Myanmar and the 2015 SEA Games in Singapore.

Strike On!

     Kali (fencing) or Eskrima (blades) is a martial art that dates back to pre-colonial times and was made for survival. Arnis (armor) lies in defending against rival tribes and invaders using everyday tools like the bolo.

     During Spanish colonization, Arnis went underground and practiced secretly to escape persecution. Yet, heroes like José Rizal and Juan Luna helped keep it alive. Arnis gained recognition as a sport during the 1970s and 1980s. It is now a regular event in the Southeast Asian Games and was declared the Philippines’ national martial art through Republic Act No. 9850.

     The crucial element of Arnis is strategy: scoring points through quick strikes and footwork. Legends like Remy Presas made Arnis famous globally by developing “Modern Arnis,” a safer self-defense system. Meanwhile, champions like Villardo Cunamay prove it’s never too late to shine. Starting his Arnis journey at 35, Villardo won the Philippines’ third straight gold medal, defeating competitors like Cambodia’s Mengly Yong.

Shine On!

     These sports are more than games—they’re living traditions. We need to preserve it as it is part of our national identity, embodying the shared values of the Filipino community. They connect us to our past, inspire our athletes, and remind us of the grit and grace that define the Filipino spirit.