By Martha Isabella Alexandra S. Carlos
On May 12, 2026, the Philippine Consulate of Dubai, in partnership with the Lightning Scientific Arnis International, held the first session of the Bagani Arnis Workshop at Far Eastern Private School, Al Shahba, with participants from the High School SSG and selected club presidents.
This workshop aims to help students learn about Arnis, a martial art from the Philippines, with the goal of preserving the legacy of Arnis and the Filipino culture for the next generation.
The school warmly welcomed the owners of AEG, administrators, the Philippine Consulate of Dubai, and Lightning Scientific Arnis International with the Drum and Lyre performance. After the performance, they headed to the Activity Room to start the program proper, with the Christian Prayer, led by Martha Isabella Alexandra S. Carlos, and the UAE National Anthem, led by Fhionna Ghavrielle A. Tapia.
The Welcoming Remarks were delivered by Ms. Mary Jane Onato, stating and reminding FEPSians that “this is not just a martial arts workshop, but rather a time where we learn about our culture.” Following that, the opening remarks were delivered by the Consul General, Hon. Ambrosio Brian F. Enciso III, emphasizing being more knowledgeable about our heritage, using Arnis as an example.
Trainers from the LSAI, or Lightning Scientific Arnis International, presented a video introduction about the history and background of Arnis. As they moved on, they showed the martial arts portion of Arnis, demonstrating the important manners, 13 basic strikes and blocks, along with methods on how to strike, and teaching the participants on how to apply it.
They also introduced the sports portion of Arnis, sparring. In this portion, participants had a look at how this was played, explaining that the first to strike wins, and the first to three will be declared the winner. LSAI reminded us that their goal was to leave the legacy of Arnis to the youth.
As the workshop came to a close, the students were reminded of their culture and upholding their heritage through martial arts and the qualities that make us Filipino. The event came to a close, but the memories and lessons are all left in our hearts.
Photos by Raya Pagal