About NARAPHIL

NARAPHIL aims to standardize and systematize the teaching of arnis in the country, ensuring that the art’s rich history and techniques are passed down through generations. The organization has played a significant role in integrating arnis into the physical education curriculum of schools and in organizing national and international tournaments to promote the sport.

NARAPHIL’s efforts have led to a resurgence of interest in arnis, ensuring that this indigenous art of self-preservation remains an integral part of Filipino culture and identity.

Meet the people who are shaping the future of arnis in the Philippines and beyond

At the heart of NARAPHIL’s mission are the passionate individuals who have dedicated their lives to preserving, promoting, and institutionalizing the Filipino martial art of arnis. These leaders, coaches, and advocates have not only contributed to the growth of the sport but have also inspired a new generation of practitioners through their unwavering commitment and vision.

As we continue to celebrate the legacy and future of arnis, we proudly introduce the key personalities behind NARAPHIL — the driving force behind its nationwide initiatives, educational integration, and global promotion. Their leadership and contributions have played a vital role in ensuring that arnis remains a respected and dynamic symbol of Filipino identity.

Our Mission

To initiate arnis programs at the grassroots level, highlight its cultural importance, and develop good moral character and personality through self-discipline.

Our Vision

To upgrade the quality of arnis practice as a self-defense and physical conditioning art, preserve the legacy of arnis grandmasters, and promote arnis as a national sport.

Romeo C. Mascardo

Chairman Emeritus

The MAESTRO

Professor Romeo C. Mascardo founded the National Arnis Association of the Philippines (NARAPHIL) in 1975 at the age of 27. An acknowledged expert in Arnis de Mano, Karate and Combat Judo, and an avid practitioner of Taichichuan, Chigong, Hung Gar Kungfu and Kuntaw, he spent time promoting both Arnis de Mano and Sikaran Karate as a public service. In 1976, he wrote the book Arnis for Physical Education that kicked-off a massive campaign to promote Arnis in various schools in partnership with the Department of Education and Culture (DEC). Prof. Mascardo holds the rank of Maestro, the highest rank in the NARAPHIL organization.

Prof. Mascardo is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and an alumnus of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) where he finished his Master in Management. He is also a PhD candidate in Education Leadership having completed all the academic requirements of the program at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP).

With his academic qualifications, Prof. Mascardo assumed various responsible positions both in private and government sectors. He was Dean of the College of Business and Economics and Director of the MBA Program in a leading university, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of one of the oldest management consultancy firms in the country, and advisor/consultant in foreign development agencies. He also taught MBA courses in two leading universities. In government, he served as Director at the National Intelligence and Security Authority (NISA) and Senior Executive Assistant to the Director General, Nisa, and Regional Director of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development (MYSD).

Later in his professional career, his combined experiences in intelligence and security, strategic management and finance led him to create a course in Competitive Financial Intelligence approved by the Board of Accountancy as part of the CPA Professional Development Program. In partnership with the Philippine Institute of CPAs (PICPA), he toured the different chapters of PICPA sharing knowledge in Competitive Financial Intelligence.

Prof. Mascardo is a true Maestro be it in Arnis and Sikaran Karate, and in the practice of and teaching Management Excellence.