Filipino Martial Arts Event

Celebrate Filipino American History Month

Come join us for a talk and demonstration of Balintawak Arnis a Filipino Martial Art, the culture and history of Balintawak Arnis, and the art of stick carving.

Grand Master Mel Orpilla was born and raised in Vallejo, CA. He has been a martial artist since 1972. He teaches Balintawak Arnis, Filipino Martial Art, in the context of Philippine and Filipino culture and history. He is also the author of “Filipinos in Vallejo.” Mel is a member of the Mark of Four Waves traditional Filipino tattoo tribe. As such, he carves traditional Filipino Warrior tattoo patterns and symbols on Calcutta bamboo sticks for martial artists and collectors. He has an extensive collection of artifacts from the Northern Philippine tribes as well as a collection of antique Philippine bladed weapons.

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