A new chapter in the advancement of martial arts and self-defense systems has officially begun in Uzbekistan. On May 24 of this year, under the sponsorship of the National Guard, the "Pekiti Tirsia Kali" Federation was officially registered by the Ministry of Justice and issued with certificate number 20306.
Basic Information About "Pekiti Tirsia Kali"
“Pekiti Tirsia Kali” is a traditional Filipino martial art that integrates bladed weapons, sticks, empty-hand techniques, grappling, and hand-to-hand combat. Recognized as an effective system for neutralizing and disarming opponents with minimal damage, it is widely utilized by military and law enforcement agencies in Europe and the United States, including special operations units.
With a legacy spanning over a century, this martial art will celebrate its 128th anniversary in 2025. It is led by Grand Tuhon Leo Tortal Gaje Jr., who founded the Pekiti Tirsia Global International Organization in 2003, with active representatives across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Philippines. In the Philippines, the federation is headed by the second Maginoo-Mandala, Rommel Tortal.
The establishment of this federation in Uzbekistan marks a significant milestone—not only for enhancing the physical and tactical preparedness of military and law enforcement personnel but also for equipping civilians with practical self-defense skills. A major focus of the federation is to educate young men and women on how to defend themselves and respond effectively in emergency situations.
Development in Uzbekistan
The official registration of the Federation has laid a legal and strategic foundation for the development of this martial art in the country. In February 2023, Rommel Tortal made his first visit to Uzbekistan. Over two weeks, the head of the International Filipino Federation conducted intensive training sessions with National Guard personnel, during which their physical conditioning and athletic performance received high praise.
Impressed by the leadership and personnel’s strong commitment to learning “Pekiti Tirsia Kali,” Rommel Tortal officially authorized the establishment of a PTK school in Uzbekistan. The school was named the “PTK Bantay” ("The Warrior") Sports Club. On March 29 of the same year, the first and only “Pekiti Tirsia Kali” school in Central Asia began operations at the National Guard’s Specialized Training Center, where military personnel and law enforcement officers received professional training.
This initiative laid a solid foundation for integrating “Pekiti Tirsia Kali” into Uzbekistan’s national tactical and self-defense training systems.
It is also worth noting that during the initial training phase, instructors under the leadership of Eduard Shvidchenko, head of the “PTK Batikan” Sports Club, provided close support and guidance. This effort was initiated by Belarus’ Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs – Commander of the Internal Troops, Major General N. Karpenkov.
Main Goals and Objectives of the Federation:
To promote and develop “Pekiti Tirsia Kali” as a practical martial art within law enforcement and security sectors;
To train qualified instructors for security and law enforcement agencies;
To organize competitions and training events with the participation of Uzbekistan’s National Guard special units and military personnel from other Central Asian countries.
At present, efforts are underway to launch the Federation’s official website and to address various organizational matters. Further updates and detailed information on ongoing developments will be provided in due course.
