Chicago’s Filipino and Filipino-American community is invited to a rare cultural and martial arts event at the Rizal Center: a Balintawak Eskrima Arnis seminar led by Grandmaster Bobby Taboada. Born in Cebu and raised in humble circumstances, Grandmaster Bobby began training in Eskrima as a child with his father and then worked tirelessly—literally scrubbing floors to pay for lessons—to pursue his training. After leaving the Philippines without speaking English and with an 8th grade education, he built a life in the United States through discipline and perseverance, eventually becoming one of the foremost ambassadors of Filipino Martial Arts worldwide. Today, he continues to share not only the art, but the values, history, and spirit behind it.
This seminar offers more than physical training, it is an opportunity to connect with Filipino heritage in a direct and meaningful way. Participants will learn Arnis techniques rooted in both tradition and practicality while also hearing Grandmaster Bobby’s personal stories of training in Cebu and his journey bringing Balintawak Eskrima from the Philippines to a global stage. As Grandmaster Bobby approaches 78 years old, opportunities to learn from him in this setting are increasingly rare, making this a special moment for the community to gather, learn, and honor a living tradition.
Attendees can expect:
- Hands-on training in practical, close-range Arnis techniques
- Development of power, reflexes, and defensive awareness
- Insights into the history of Eskrima in Cebu and the Visayan region
- Stories of Filipino resilience, migration, and cultural pride
- A welcoming environment open to all ages and experience levels
Families, friends, and community members are all welcome and encouraged to attend, whether you are new to martial arts or reconnecting with your roots.
Learn more and register here:
https://www.chicagobalintawak.com/gm-bobby-seminar-2026
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