A COMBAT
BLADE-FIGHTING SYSTEM
Pekiti Tirsia Kali (PTK) is a combat blade-fighting system of Filipino Martial Arts that employs all edged and impact weaponry as well as empty-hands combat that integrates seamlessly with the use of modern firearms. This close-quarters combat system is based upon the use of the blade which provides protection from all strikes and attacks, destruction of opponent’s weapons, and domination of any combat or self defense situation.
PEKITI TIRSIA KALI DC/MD/VA
Grandtuhon Leopoldo T. Gaje, Jr., the grandson and heir of the Great Grandtuhon Conrado B. Tortal, is the present Keeper of the Pekiti-Tirsia Kali System and the training director of Pekiti Tirsia Kali DC/MD/VA. Interested in training with us? Click here.
OUR FOUNDERS
MALCOLM
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He is a former U.S. Marine with first class training in Law Enforcement and Corrections Tactics. He has earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do with 25 years of training and coaching experience. He continuously incorporates effective body conditioning techniques in the training program. His teaching methodology promotes the formation of a warrior mindset, the use of offensive and counter-offensive strategies, and muscle-tendon destruction techniques.
ARLENE
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The first female to be inducted as Master Instructor by Grandtuhon Leopoldo Gaje. Born and raised in the Philippines, the movements and principles of Kali have been a part of her day-to-day life. She has developed a unique teaching methodology that breaks down complex techniques to achieve exactness and economy of motion. Her training method includes analysis of movement, examination of the human anatomy and physiology, mathematics of motion, implicit and explicit learning, and the philosophical and cultural aspects of the art.
OUR MISSION
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The Pekiti-Tirsia Kali - Kaluyugan de Palares (PTK-KDP) training group intends to promote the Pekiti Tirsia Kali System and to unify its practitioners in an atmosphere of mutual cooperation and respect. We encourage the advancement of our scientific and cultural awareness by creating an organized and impartial training environment as well as by recognizing each other's talents and skills. We strive to foster organization, integrity, and excellence.
NUNQUAM NON PARATUS
"Never unprepared."
REVIEWS
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"Instructors are very nice and helpful, and the training environment is very friendly. I strongly recommend this class to anyone who wants to improve the self defense knowledge and knife/sticks skills!" (F.K.)
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"This Filipino Martial Arts School has become a close knit community and welcomed me from the start. I have been with Pekiti Tirsia Kali Kaluyugan De Palares School for over a year now. Some highlights would be: authentic advancement protocols, economy of movement, training with multiple range weapons, transference of skills from weapons to empty hand and grappling/joint manipulation, excellent fundamental skill building with applications for the advanced practitioner. All our instructors are knowledgeable and wise; Tuhon Arlene and Tuhon Malcolm pull from a wealth of years of experience training with Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje, Jr. Some people can be good coaches, but it takes special people to be excellent teachers, and that is what our Tuhons bring to the table. They have a clear curriculum, modules and cycles that develop well-rounded fighters, and have multiple opportunities for in-person and Virtual learning. Train with us and find out more!" (N.J.D.)
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"Excellent instruction. Great support and encouragement from fellow students and instructors regardless of skill level. A true feeling of family and I will be forever grateful for the experience." (C.B.)
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"This is an exceptional PTK school. It is more like a family where members of the family or carefully vetted. The atmosphere is conducive to learning and comradery. Tuhon Arlene is very knowledgeable and she is proficient at teaching any level. I highly recommend this school." (W.B.)
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​"This is a great martial arts school with top notch instructors." (L.P.)
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"Excellent curriculum that promotes progressive skill development using modern training methods.The instructors are world class and each brings their own focus and flavor to the art. They create a challenging and safe training environment for all skill levels. If you’re coming from another art, PTK will likely accentuate your existing skills. I saw significant improvement in my footwork, ranging and fluidity in one year of training. PTK teaches stick, knife and empty hand skills all the way to the ground and as such is a very well rounded art." (T.A.)
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"Excellent school with amazing teachers that care deeply about providing quality instruction for their students. Coaches and many training partners are serious martial artists, but treated us newbies like family. Extensive resources and training options were made available to facilitate our progress." (D. E.)
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I have been practicing with my tribe going on 3 years now. As I continue to learn more about my heritage, I am becoming more proficient and confident in the art that is Pekiti Tirsia Kali. The instructors are phenomenal people. They do an outstanding job in developing an training atmosphere whether it is virtual or in-person. From the lucky few, who are selected as students, to the senior student instructors, this has become my extended family. The virtual aspect is excellent, but if you are able to touch sticks in person, there is nothing else like it! (J.J.)
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