THE TIMES are filled with danger, and the Thomasian community is not spared of the evil that may lurk in every corner.
So, in order to counter the various threats that may come, Thomasians need to learn self-defense.
And this is exactly why the UST Martial Arts Club (USTMAC) was formed.
Established by Thomasian Carlo Laserna, USTMAC has spearheaded the promotion of martial arts in the campus since 2000.
After being given a Hall of Fame Award by the United States Martial Arts Association last year, the USTMAC has proven itself to be a competent martial arts organization.
According to vice-president Patrick Manabat, the USTMAC’s mission is to promote and teach various martial arts.
“We would like to teach Thomasians how to defend themselves in times of danger. Marami kasing naho-hold-up ngayon, kahit na diyan sa labas ng campus,” he said.
“We would also like to inculcate self-discipline and create a harmonious relationship among people. Iniisip kasi usually ng mga tao na kapag sinabing martial arts, violence agad,” he added.
In addition to the rigid training, members get exposed to various tournaments nationwide.
Last September, the USTMAC participated in a martial arts competition at the University of the Philippines gymnasium, along with other athletes from Ateneo De Manila University, De La Salle University and UP.
The USTMAC contingent brought home two gold medals, courtesy of Manabat in the extra lightweight arnis event and Joanna Pacibe in the women’s lightweight arnis event, and five bronze medals.
Manabat stressed the value of self-defense.
“In learning self-defense, we can create unity within the martial arts community and at the same time promote Filipino martial arts, such as arnis,” he said.
In order to help the sport flourish, the USTMAC is lobbying the inclusion of arnis and karate in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
“We are hoping na masali iyung arnis at karate sa UAAP kasi sa tingin ko competitive iyung mga athletes dito,” he stressed.
With the promising ideals of the USTMAC, the University can broaden its strengths in sports, and give the exposure that Filipino martial arts need.
