Not everyone steps into Filipino Martial Arts because they want to be tactical. And that's okay. In fact--it's normal.

We need to normalize the truth that FMA, whether it's Pekiti Tirsia Kali, Eskrima, Arnis, or any of our countless regional systems, is more than a tool for combat. It's a vessel. A language. A living archive of who we are.

Some of us train because we're searching for identity.

Some because we want to reconnect with our lineage.

Some because the rhythm of abaniko feels like home.

Some because the movements remind us of our grandparents' stories.

Some because it's simply beautiful, fluid, and alive.

And yes--some train because it makes them feel powerful, prepared, and grounded.

But none of these reasons are "more valid" than the others.

In a world that often frames Filipino Martial Arts through the lens of realism, violence, or tactical efficiency, we forget that FMA was born from community just as much as it was born from conflict. It lived in festivals, in dances, in ritual. It lived in stories and songs. It lived in our people--and it still does.

If you train for culture, that's valid.

If you train for fitness, that's valid.

If you train because the flow feels like art, that's valid.

If you train because the footwork reminds you of home, that's valid.

If you train because the movements help you heal, that's valid.

If you train because you simply enjoy it, that's more than valid.

FMA is not one-dimensional.

Our reasons for stepping onto the mat shouldn't be either.

To all who don't fit the "tactical" mold--your reasons matter.

Your presence matters.

Your journey is still part of the lineage.

Still part of the story.

Normalize your why.

Honor your why.

And let your training be as human, as complex, and as expansive as our culture itself.