Kali is the ancient martial art of the Philippines. Predating the Majaphait empire which dominated Southeast Asia during the 5th and 6th centuries AD, its development in the Philippines was influenced by the conquest of the Spanish who prohibited the carrying of weapons. This in turn led to the development of of the stick fighting element where the bladed arts were trained in secret, using the stick and where possible the blade. Kali is unique in its emphasis on fluidity and improvisation and above all, practicality. It is these aspects which make it an effective and intellectually stimulating art. |
