'Proudly Pinoy': How a NSW arnis instructor ignites passion to champion Filipino Martial Arts in Australia

David Bardos (left), Head Instructor of Riverina Arnis Association, demonstrates arnis, a Filipino martial art.

David Bardos (left), Head Instructor of Riverina Arnis Association, demonstrates arnis, a Filipino martial art. Credit: RAA as supplied by David Bardos

David Bardos first learned Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) at just 12 years old, and for over 35 years, he has continued to share his expertise by teaching in New South Wales, Australia, through the Riverina Arnis Association.


Key Points
  • David Bardos began learning Arnis at just the age of 12. Now, with over 35 years of experience, he proudly teaches Filipino Martial Arts to both Filipinos and Australians.
  • Declared as the national martial art and sport of the Philippines enacted under Republic Act No 9850 in 2009, Arnis, also called Kali or Eskrima, uses sticks, bladed weapons, improvised tools, and even 'open hand' techniques without weapons.
  • Globally recognised and accepted, arnis is now being taught worldwide, including in countries like the United States, Europe, and Australia.
There’s a different kind of pride in practising something that’s truly our own. Every move, word, and application connects you to your roots.
Arnis Instructor David Bardos
David Bardos trains students aged seven to 77, firmly believing that Arnis is suitable for all ages and can be learned at any stage of life.
David Bardos trains students aged seven to 77, firmly believing that Arnis is suitable for all ages and can be learned at any stage of life. Credit: Supplied by David Bardos
Bardos added that "you won’t find any martial art system that matches the level of Arnis and Filipino Martial Arts in general, which are world-renowned for their versatility, adaptability, and technical mastery in weapon-based training. That’s why it’s been accepted globally, and the influence of arnis and the Filipino martial arts in general is very popular now."
Several organisations including David Bardos' Riverina Arnis Association in Wagga Wagga NSW, along with other martial arts schools across Asutralia such as in Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle and Central Coast include arnis in their sport curriculum.
Several organisations including David Bardos' Riverina Arnis Association in Wagga Wagga NSW, along with other martial arts schools across Asutralia such as in Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle and Central Coast include arnis in their sport curriculum. Credit: Supplied by David Bardos
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'Proudly Pinoy': How a NSW arnis instructor ignites passion to champion Filipino Martial Arts in Australia | SBS Filipino