Philippine Embassy Promotes Self-Defense Among Filipino Community Girls and Women

Left photo: Mr. Filomeno Buena of Buena Mano-LESKAS discusses the various kinds of self-defense; Right photo: Mr. Buena leads the participants in doing calisthenics to stretch out their muscles.

08 December 2017 VIENTIANE — The Philippine Embassy in Vientiane, Lao PDR tapped Mr. Filomeno Buena, Chief Executive Officer of martial art group Buena Mano – Lema Scientific Kali Arnis System (Buena Mano – LESKAS) to conduct a Seminar on Self-Defense for Women at the Vientiane International School gymnasium in Vientiane on November 25. The event coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and was attended by thirty-two members of the Filipino community.

During the seminar, Mr. Buena emphasized during the start of the program that self-defense is a personal right and choice. Participants were told that the best defense is to put distance between themselves and their attackers and immediately call for help. Should they be cornered, they were taught basic punching and kicking techniques. Prior to the introduction of these techniques, Mr. Buena led the participants in doing calisthenics to loosen muscles and to create a foundation for the execution of self-defense techniques, such as a high-knee exercise for a knee-to-stomach escape. The exercises can be done at home and on a frequent basis in order to promote good health and well-being.

Buena Mano-LESKAS is a martial art group that specializes in armed and unarmed martial arts. It has established chapters in La Salle Green Hills, De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde, and the University of Asia and the Pacific, among others. END

For more information, visit  www.vientianepe.dfa.gov.ph.