History of Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas

Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas is a distinctive system of Filipino martial arts, rooted in the philosophy and cultural heritage of Kali. Its genetic values are demonstrated in the physical and intellectual capabilities of its practitioners, showcasing the skill and proficiency of Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas.

Origins and Preservation

Hidden in secrecy for several centuries, the forefathers who mastered this technology preserved and practiced the system, ensuring that future generations could inherit and disseminate this knowledge globally.

Historical Context

The Battle of Mactan (1521)

Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas traces its historical significance back to the famous Battle of Mactan in 1521, where Lapu-Lapu defeated Ferdinand Magellan in a legendary one-on-one edge weapon combat. This victory symbolized Filipino resistance, with Lapu-Lapu famously declaring, “I bow to no King.”

Philippine-Spanish Revolution (1889)

During the Philippine-Spanish Revolution, Filipino fighters used edge weapon tactics to drive the Spaniards out. This period marked one of the bloodiest in Philippine history, culminating in Spain selling the Philippines to the Americans for $3.00 per head in the Treaty of Paris.

American Occupation (1890)

The arrival of American forces under Admiral Dewey in 1890 led to continued fighting. Filipino warriors demonstrated their blade fighting skills, closing in on enemies and achieving victories despite facing advanced weaponry like .38 caliber revolvers and Kruger rifles.

Japanese Invasion (1940s)

During World War II, the Japanese invasion of the Philippines saw fierce resistance from Filipino guerillas. Organized into Bolo Brigades, they effectively used traditional weapons like bolos, kris, parang, barong, talibong, ginunting, kampilan, and sharp patrol or sentry’s. Despite the eventual defeat of American forces, the Filipino fighters’ resilience laid the foundation for future resistance movements.

The Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas System

Meaning and Components

In the Ilonggo dialect:
Dekiti: Close-in fighting, devastating the enemy with no escape.
Tirsia: Quartering the enemy, pushing them into a corner for multiple deadly blows.
Siradas: Preventing the enemy from penetrating any angle of attack.

The system was developed by the Tortal family, including Conrado, Balbino, Francisco, Teodorico, their father Segundito, and great grandfather Norberto. Today, Grand Master Jerson (Nene) P. Tortal and his son Jerson E. Tortal Jr. continue to uphold and teach this art.

Global Spread and Modern Influence

Grand Master Jerson (Nene) Tortal popularized Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas in the United States and further expanded it to North and South America, Western Europe, and Asia. This system has gained recognition in the martial arts world for its effectiveness as a practical self-defense technique.

Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas is widely accepted among law enforcement, military, security personnel, and executives for its reliability and effectiveness. The system is also showcased in sports programs, including tournaments and demonstrations in various schools, universities, and private companies across the Philippines.

Kali History

Philosophical Roots

Kali, one of the oldest Filipino philosophies, dates back to the Majapahit Empire and Sri Visaya, when the Code of Kalantiao was practiced. Despite cultural invasions by Europeans and Western influences, a dedicated group of practitioners preserved and continued this unique and mystical culture.

Cultural Art

Kali, derived from the word “kalis” (blade), is the oldest form of weaponry in the Philippines. It encompasses physical training, mental development, and spiritual upliftment, strengthening the moral foundation of its practitioners. The art’s graceful and harmonious movements are reflective of methods used by other Asian cultures.

Conclusion

Dekiti-Tirsia-Siradas remains a vibrant and living art, embodying the Filipino spirit of resistance, skill, and cultural heritage. Its legacy continues to inspire and equip individuals worldwide, making it a significant part of both historical and modern martial arts traditions.