By Myris Lee
The increase of mass shooting incidents in the United States alarmed many people around the world, especially the recent Texas mass shooting that killed 19 children and two teachers.
Although mass shooting incidents are rare in the Philippines, the Tancontian family, a well-known family of Sambo fighters in the country, shared their experiences on how martial arts can help in some dangerous situations that involve self-defense.
Pilipinas Sambo President Paolo Tancontian, father of 2019 and 2021 Southeast Asian Games medalists Sydney and Chino, shared that his mind is at peace knowing that his children, even if they are not with him, can defend themselves in times of crisis because of martial arts.
“Alam na alam nila kung paano depensahan ang sarili nila. Ako naman kampante naman ako at alam ko na medyo alam nila kung paano umiwas para hindi masama sa magugulong tao,” Paolo said.
“Through martial arts makakaiwas sila sa gulo… well-trained sila depensahan ang sarili nila sa masasamang loob,” he added.
He also narrated that he once used martial arts to protect himself during a holdup situation after withdrawing money.
Vigilance, strength and endurance
For Sydney Tancontian, if she is in a situation similar to a mass shooting, the presence of mind and alertness taught in martial arts will be of big help. Discipline helps her physically and mentally, especially when facing an armed opponent.
“Ang advantage ng may alam sa martial arts sa mga ganoong sitwasyon, number one alert ka and mabilis ‘yung response mo. For example sa laro, very aware kami sa galaw namin,” Sydney said.
Her brother Chino shared that before he practiced martial arts, he was very thin and was an easy target for criminals. Martial arts gave a big boost to his confidence through learning self-defense techniques that he can use during critical situations.
“Nung bata ako payat ako kaya ‘yung parents ko takot na lumalabas ako kasi medyo mainit sa mata ng masamang loob pag payat,” he said.
“I think malaking help ang martial arts kasi it helps na mag-develop ng strength and endurance para kung need mo tumakbo during sa mga ganyang incident at ‘pag naman may lumapit sayo you can resist,” he continued.
The three fighters encouraged everyone to have basic knowledge in martial arts, saying that it will help them to physically defend themselves, as well as to improve alertness and discipline in times of trouble.
“I encourage kahit sino man bata, matanda, especially mga babae to learn martial arts, It’s better na may basic knowledge ng self-defense,” Sydney said. – ag
