Introduction To Funker Tactical
Bridging Tactical Concepts with Martial Arts
Dive into an enlightening dialogue between myself and Paulo Rubio, the prodigious expert in the Filipino Martial Art of Pekiti Tirsia Kali. Currently operating out of Toronto, Canada, Paulo’s journey in martial arts began when he was merely 14 years old. Today, he is the genius behind the YouTube sensation Funker Tactical, a channel that has magnetized over a million subscribers.
Beyond his digital success, Paulo’s recent years have been deeply engrossed in Filipino Martial Arts, especially the nuanced knife and single-stick combat techniques. Through his vast experiences, Paulo endeavors to create a harmonious blend of tactical concepts with Modern Combat Systems, age-old martial arts, and the dynamic world of combat sports.
Image credit: Paulo Rubio via Instagram
How did a 14-year-old’s curiosity evolve into a profound understanding of the intricate Filipino Martial Art of Pekiti Tirsia Kali? What drives Paulo Rubio to bridge the gap between traditional martial arts and modern combat systems? And with over a million subscribers on his YouTube channel, what secrets does Paulo share about the dedication and discipline martial arts demand?
An Unconventional Path to Filipino Martial Arts
“I’ve taken a somewhat strange path,” Paulo began, his words painting a picture of a spirit gripped by the intricate art of combat yet never tethered to a single doctrine or guru. His journey, devoid of regularly scheduled classes or allegiance to one system, was a testament to his belief in a Socratic, artistic, and explorative approach to learning martial arts. “Pekiti Tirsia is my base. It’s what I found to resonate with me,” he shared, revealing a connection beyond mere physical practice.
Paulo’s path was carved by traveling, seeking wisdom from various masters, and engaging in as many fights as possible – a trial by fire, as he put it. His learning was not confined to the theoretical or the traditional; it was raw, real, and forged in the crucible of actual combat, albeit in a controlled environment. “As I travel the world, I get in as many fights as I can, and stick fighting and knife fighting,” he explained, his journey punctuated by encounters with various forms and masters, from Kalisi to Illustrisimo.
Yet, his approach to teaching and learning was not haphazard. It was, in fact, deeply rooted in respect for tradition and a keen understanding of the commonalities that bind various martial arts forms together. Paulo’s method involved identifying and weaving these common threads into coherent, applicable knowledge that could be adapted and personalized to each student’s unique background and skills. “I take the Filipino Martial Arts principles and concepts, and I teach it in a way that respects tradition, for sure, but also in a way that is specialized to the student,” he elucidated.
Humility & Exploration
His words echoed a philosophy that was both humble and profound. Paulo does not see himself as a master but as a perpetual student, always learning and evolving. His journey was not just about the tradition of martial arts but also a practical and philosophical exploration that sought to bridge tactical concepts and modern combat systems with traditional martial arts and combat sports.
As our conversation unfolded, it became evident that Paulo Rubio’s journey was not merely a personal quest for mastery but a broader mission to explore, understand, and share the boundless depths of martial arts. His story, documented meticulously through videos and shared with the world, was not just his own but a reflection of the infinite, complex, and beautifully chaotic world of martial arts.
Image credit: Paulo Rubio via Instagram
Bridging the Gap: Integrating Tactical and Traditional Martial Arts
The Intersection of Tactical Training and Martial Arts
Paulo’s entry into the tactical world was not through conventional military or law enforcement service routes but through a serendipitous connection and a genuine desire to help a friend.
“There was a friend of mine; his name is Chris,” Paulo began, his words painting a poignant picture of a combat veteran returning from Afghanistan, grappling with the unseen wounds of war. With his storytelling, filming, and editing skills, Paulo sought to help Chris find purpose and community by sharing his story. “Let’s meet up, tell your story, and share it with others. And see if, you know, there’s a community we can build around this,” he recalled of their initial endeavors.
This act of friendship and storytelling unexpectedly propelled Paulo into a world populated by soldiers, combat veterans, and law enforcement officers. His ability to resonate with the tactical community through his storytelling found him navigating through environments and learning from subject matter experts many seldom encounter. “I just found myself in a lot of crazy environments, learning from a variety of different experts,” he shared.
Paulo’s journey into the tactical realm is deeply intertwined with ethical considerations and respect for operational and individual security.
“I have stacks of hard drives of unreleased material, just because some of the units that I’ve filmed training with the subject matter experts that I found, I can’t post it up for OpSec, or personal security reasons, or it’s just not ethically right to publish it,” he explained.
The Philosophical and Practical Aspects of Pekiti Tirsia Kali
Embracing the Chaos: The Philosophy and Principles of Pekiti Tirsia Kali
“Pekiti Tirsia is very heavy on distance management, fueled by really aggressive footwork,” he began, painting a picture of a system that is not only physically demanding but also technically and tactically profound. It’s a system that doesn’t seek to control chaos but rather curates it, acknowledging the myriad ways conflict can unfold. “There’s a million ways that two knives can clash. Two swords can clash,” he mused, hinting at the boundless complexity and the inherent unpredictability of the martial art.
Pekiti Tirsia Kali, as Paulo described, is not merely a martial art but a comprehensive system that has found its place in the training regimes of the force recon Marines, intertwining traditional martial arts concepts with modern combative applications. “It’s a super community,” he noted. He emphasized a collective as committed to pressure testing and evolution as respecting tradition and engaging in the blurred lines between hard sparring and fighting in the mutual pursuit of operational success.
The Pekiti Tirsia Tactical Association, to which Paulo belongs, was founded by Tuhon Jared Wihongi, a SWAT operator and a figure who has seamlessly woven together traditional and modern combative elements. “He has found a way to delineate but also integrate traditional concepts with a modern combatives program,” Paulo shared, revealing respect for a man who has distilled various martial arts forms into the TRICOM system, a defensive tactics and force integration system that encompasses elements of wrestling, jujitsu, boxing, Muay Thai, and, of course, Pekiti Tirsia Kali.
Dance of The Blade: Pekiti Tirsia in the Heart of the Philippines
I asked Paulo about how Filipino culture influenced Pekiti Tirsia and why Filipino culture consistently emphasized the importance of the blade in their traditional martial arts when other arts, like traditional jujitsu, abandoned the premise of armed attackers over time.
Paulo began to weave a narrative that bridged the martial art with the rich, tumultuous history of the Philippines. “We were a conquered nation multiple times over,” he began, echoing the resilience and resistance permeating the archipelago’s history. The blade, ever-present in Filipino martial arts, is not merely a weapon but a symbol of a persistent insurgency against colonization and a practical tool in the agrarian and sometimes lawless landscapes of rural areas. “There’s agriculture, and some places don’t have a police force,” Paulo noted, hinting at a Wild West mentality where mutual respect is forged from the understanding that everyone is potentially armed.
Pekiti Tirsia Kali, deeply rooted in this bladed culture, is also informed by the tribal nature of Filipino society. The martial art doesn’t merely prepare one to face a single opponent but assumes a scenario where multiple armed adversaries are the norm. “Our footwork and trajectory changes,” Paulo explained, “really comes from this founding philosophy that we’re not just fighting one person. We’re fighting multiple opponents, and they’re all armed.”
Nature or Nurture?
As our conversation meandered through the dense metaphorical jungles of the Philippines, I pondered the influence of the physical environment on the martial art. Paulo acknowledged the validity of this, citing the adaptability of Pekiti Tirsia Kali to various environments, from the narrow streets of Manila to the muddy, sandy terrains of the jungle. Yet, he emphasized a universality in its concepts – mobility, and adaptability – and a belief in its applicability in any environment.
Pekiti Tirsia Kali, as Paulo eloquently put it, is “the art of the living past in modern times.” It’s a martial art that honors its roots while pulsating vibrantly in the present; adaptable, and capable of being learned proficiently in a relatively short time. “Give me four weeks, and I’ll get you proficient and fighting in it,” Paulo declared, underscoring a belief in the martial art’s practicality, its immediate applicability, and its enduring relevance in a world that, much like the art itself, continues to evolve and adapt.
The Stick and the Sword: Nuances of Filipino Martial Arts
Paulo and I delved into a topic that has sparked many a heated debate in the Filipino martial arts community: the stick versus the sword. “Yes. And no,” Paulo began, addressing my query about whether the stick is merely a stand-in for training with a live blade. He elucidated that while the rattan stick can be a placeholder for the sword or machete in specific contexts, it also holds its own identity in stick fighting. “In one moment, I’m like, Okay, I’m stick fighting because that’s super primal and awesome. So I’m just stick fighting. And then I’ll take a moment on the next clash. And I’d be like, I’m going to respect this as a placeholder for the blade,” he shared, revealing the fluidity he navigates between perceiving the stick as a weapon in its own right and as a surrogate for the blade.
Principle-Based Learning
The Transferability of Techniques in Pekiti Tirsia
Navigating the intricate world of Filipino Martial Arts (FMA), Paulo and I found ourselves entwined in a discussion about teaching and learning methodology within the art form. “I do it concurrently,” Paulo asserted when I probed whether he introduces stick techniques before transitioning a student to a knife or teaches them simultaneously. His philosophy leans heavily into principle-based learning, a method that, in his words, ensures that “as long as the lessons adhere and are congruent with those same principles,” a myriad of techniques can be introduced without overwhelming the student.
Paulo’s approach to teaching FMA is not without its critiques of the broader community. He was skeptical about the philosophy of transferability of skill prevalent in FMA, cautioning against viewing it as a “magic pill.” He elaborated, “Some people who, you know, wave sticks around in the air think that all of a sudden, they got hands, like they can throw down with hands.” His words hint at a critical perspective that challenges practitioners to not merely rely on the transference of skills from one weapon to another but fully immerse themselves in the unique demands and training methodologies each tool requires.
The conversation took a deeper dive as Paulo highlighted a potential pitfall in FMA’s approach to empty-hand techniques, critiquing the tendency to apply the same drill and technique-oriented approach used for weapons to unarmed combat. “With empty hands, I believe in a different separate approach first before we integrate that in,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of establishing a solid foundation in basic boxing before integrating more complex, FMA-specific handwork.
Unveiling the Curriculum of Pekiti Tirsia Kali
Paulo and I delved deeper into the intricate tapestry of Pekiti Tirsia Kali, exploring its curriculum and the philosophical underpinnings that guide its teachings. “It’s four fundamentals,” Paulo began, laying out a seemingly simple foundation that belies the depth and complexity of the martial arts. He emphasized the role of drills that challenge practitioners, not just physically but mentally, honing their “timing, decision making under stress,” and various attributes like “speed, power, timing, precision,” and notably, “grip strength.“
Paulo’s approach to teaching beginners in Pekiti Tirsia is refreshingly straightforward: “five strikes, all footwork models, and one or two defenses.” Yet, he cautioned against becoming too ensnared in the allure of flow drills, which, while fun, carry “a high rate of diminishing return” if they become too rote, too rehearsed, and cease to challenge the practitioner.
The conversation took a fascinating turn as we explored the documentation and transmission of Pekiti Tirsia’s curriculum. Paulo shared insights into the unique journey of Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje, the sole grand Tuhon of the system, who traveled globally, imparting teachings often tailored to his student’s strengths and capabilities. This has led to a rich, albeit somewhat fragmented, body of knowledge within the Pekiti Tirsia community, where different regions and even individual tuhons may possess specialized knowledge in various subsystems of the art.
Image credit: Paulo Rubio
While the system is “codified,” with commendable documentation by figures like Bill McGrath and various instructors, Paulo acknowledged the inherent challenge in fully encapsulating the totality of Pekiti Tirsia Kali. Different branches within the Pekiti Tirsia family tree have their own “interpretation and philosophies and flavor,” and practitioners may find themselves on a lifelong journey exploring just one aspect of the art.
Mysticism and Modernity
The Unseen Layers of Pekiti Tirsia Kali Training
As Paulo and I continued our dialogue, the conversation took an unexpected yet intriguing turn toward the mystical aspects embedded within Pekiti Tirsia Kali. “There are still parts of it that are rooted in mysticism,” Paulo revealed, introducing me to the concept of “oroshon’s,” described as magic spells, and “anting anting,” amulets and symbols that supposedly render warriors impervious to blade strikes. “The power of belief is compelling. It’s powerful,” he mused, acknowledging a sliver of openness to these cultural practices despite their seemingly supernatural nature.
Our discussion then then navigated back towards the physical, exploring unconventional training methods within the martial art. Paulo shared vivid images of practitioners waist-deep in the ocean, practicing lateral strikes against the water, slapping coconut trees and rocks to condition their bodies. These methods, deeply rooted in the physicality and environment of the Philippines, offered a stark contrast to the mystical elements previously discussed.
However, the conversation took a critical turn when we broached the topic of live blade training. Paulo expressed an evident skepticism towards this practice, stating, “Live blade training outside of solo training is kind of ridiculous, in my opinion.” He emphasized that when two people train with live blades, their primary objective becomes avoiding injuring their partner, which is “contrary to what we’re actually trying to do.” Our discussion highlighted a tension between traditional practices and modern sensibilities, particularly when considering the availability of modern training tools that offer realistic feedback without the inherent risks of live blade training.
Advice For Beginners
The Pitfalls of Rank and Ego in Martial Arts
I leaned into a favorite topic that’s often overlooked but crucial for anyone venturing into martial arts: common mistakes beginners make.
“It’s that instant gratification,” Paulo said. “Wanting the next thing without mastering the basics. And rank chasing. Feeling validated by that rank, giving up your freedom to some [guru] who might not have your best interests in mind.” He emphasized the danger of external validation, suggesting that martial artists look instead outside their organization. “Maybe I practice karate, but I also test my skills with friends in a garage. My validation comes from experience, not just a rank.”
I nodded, adding, “It’s a drawback in traditional martial arts. People identify with their rank; they make it their personality, and they’re afraid of losing face.” I contrasted this with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, where tapping out is part of the training, keeping the ego in check. “There’s no better way to stay humble than losing on a regular basis.”
Paulo agreed, pointing out the unique challenges in Filipino martial arts. “We deal with blades. People want certainties, and there’s always someone ready to offer them. Many stop sparring and stop testing themselves. They don’t adapt as they age, resting on past achievements.”
Finding Your Best Path: Proximity and Passion
Paulo’s response was both practical and insightful when asked for tips on how beginners can find the right martial art for them. “Take the martial art closest to your home,” he began, emphasizing the importance of making practice sustainable over the long term. It’s a simple yet profound point. The closer the dojo or gym, the more likely you are to stick with it, to immerse yourself in the practice, and to honestly give it a chance.
But what if you’re spoiled for choice, with a plethora of martial arts schools at your fingertips? Paulo’s advice was clear: “Take trial classes.” But more than the techniques taught or trophies on display, he stressed the significance of the community. “Really scrutinize and examine the community, the people there,” he advised. It’s the people, the camaraderie, and the shared passion that can truly make or break one’s martial arts journey.
Paulo’s words resonated with me. Too often, we place undue expectations on martial arts, hoping it will be a panacea for all our woes. Yet, at its core, martial arts is about passion, discipline, and community. “Find something that you enjoy,” Paulo urged, a sentiment I wholeheartedly echo. And if all else fails? “The short answer is jujitsu,” he quipped with a chuckle. It’s hard to argue with that.
Conclusion
Paulo’s journey in the world of martial arts has been nothing short of remarkable. From a young boy’s curiosity to becoming the genius behind the YouTube sensation Funker Tactical, Paulo’s dedication to bridging traditional martial arts with modern combat systems is truly inspiring. His innovative path, filled with travels, seeking wisdom from various masters, and engaging in numerous fights, showcases his commitment to an empirical yet artistic and explorative approach to learning martial arts. Paulo’s teachings emphasize principle-based learning, ensuring techniques are introduced without overwhelming the student. His insights into the unconventional aspects of Pekiti Tirsia Kali, combined with his practical advice for beginners, offer a comprehensive and nuanced view of martial arts.
In conclusion, I am profoundly grateful to Paulo for sharing his wisdom and experiences. His dedication to the art of Pekiti Tirsia Kali and his efforts to reconcile traditional and modern tactical martial arts are commendable.
Connect With GD Funker Tactical
For those eager to delve deeper into Paulo’s world, I highly recommend visiting his website, subscribing to his YouTube channel, Funker Tactical, and following him on Instagram. Your journey into the world of martial arts will undoubtedly be enriched by his insights and teachings.
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About the Author
Ashe Higgs, I Liq Chuan Master Instructor & L2 Nutrition Coach
Ashe is a highly skilled martial arts instructor and certified nutrition coach with over two decades of experience in the field. He holds a Master Instructor certification in I Liq Chuan under Sam FS Chin, making him one of only several individuals worldwide to hold the title. He has taught classes and workshops worldwide and is passionate about helping others achieve their fitness and wellness goals.
With a background in full-contact fighting and a Level 2 certification from Precision Nutrition in nutrition coaching, Ashe is a well-rounded expert in the fields of martial arts. In addition to his expertise, he has a wealth of experience in teaching and mentoring others. He has a natural ability to connect with his students and inspire them to reach their full potential.
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