SUNTUKAN- PHILIPPINES

“Punching or boxing” is the literal translation of a Southeast Asian martial art form known as Suntukan. This “striking” combat form is said to have originated from a region called Visayas located in the Philippines. Furthermore, Suntukan is also commonly referred to either as Pangamot/Pakamot, Mano-mano, Panantukan, or Filipino Boxing.  In addition, this combat form has essentially been created especially for street fighting. Weapons such as knives, palmsticks, and ice pricks may also be used in this style of martial art.

History/origin of the Suntukan:

Apparently, the word “suntukan” literally means “punch” indicating a “fistfight or a brawl”. The other term mano-mano used to describe this combat form is derived from a Spanish word meaning “hand”. Furthermore, Suntukan was basically created mainly to be used in “street fighting” rather than as a sport. As a result of which there are no specific rules related to the safety of the fighter that are used in this martial art form. As for the origin of Suntukan, it is said to have originated during the Philippine-American War period during the beginning of the 20th century. Furthermore, it was during this era that the Americans introduced boxing in the Filipino society. And so it was combining elements seen in western boxing and blade fighting that the Filipinos created a unique style which basically used a tighter stance and unique footwork. It was this style that was eventually referred to as “Suntukan” which means “fist fight”.

weapons used in the Suntukan:

Since “striking” techniques are mainly used in this form of combat it is the “hands and feet” of the fighter that are used as a weapon.

Techniques involved in the Suntukan and training availability:

In terms of technique, a fighter basically makes use of “striking” techniques that mainly attacks the upper body to overcome an opponent. And so moves such as punching, elbow strikes, headbutting, shoulder strikes, and knee strikes are commonly used by the fighter. In addition, body parts such as biceps, triceps, eyes, nose, jaws, temple, groin, ribs, spine, and back of the neck are many attacked during a bout of Suntukan. As for training centers/schools, there are a few available especially in the Philippines for those interested in learning this “striking” martial art form.

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