Zubiri to guest in arnis seminar

SENATOR Juan Miguel "Migz" Zubiri will grace the three-day Philippine Escrima Kali Arnis Federation (Pekaf) Seminar Workshop and the 1st Mindanao Zubiri Cup Escrima Kali Arnis Tournament slated October 20 to 22.

Kapatirang Doble Olisi (KDO) Escrima chief Mario Palazuelo, who is also the Pekaf regional director, confirmed the senator's attendance to the event. Zubiri is also the Pekaf president.

Palazuelo, in a phone interview, said Zubiri is one of the authors of Republic Act (RA) 9850, an act declaring arnis as the national martial art and sport of the Philppines.

He said the senator's presence will inspire some 200 coaches and trainers who are expected to attend the seminar workshop set on the 20th.

The seminar aims to introduce Pekaf and the rules of the sport.

The 1st Mindanao Zubiri Cup Escrima Kali Arnis Tournament on October 21 and 22 will serve as the application of the seminar.

Palazuelo added that over 400 arnisadors from Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, Zamboanga City, Iligan City, General Santos City, Digos City, Tacuring, North Cotabato, Koronadal and Tagum City will vie for honors.

The tournament features the elementary, High School and 18 years old and above categories who may compete in labanan (sparring) and anyo (forms).

Registration fee for the seminar workshop is pegged at P400 inclusive of two snacks, one pack lunch, certificate and handouts while the tournament registration is P250. ABM