TEOFILO VALEZ

• Anciong Bacon
• Jose Villasin
• Teofilo Valez

In 1963, a 37 year-old Teofilo Velez accepted an invitation from his close friend to learn the Balintawak style of martial arts – but not before engaging in a full contact fight with Jose himself! Despite being an amateur boxer and practitioner of Doce Pares Arnis at the peak of is a physical form, Teofilo was unable to penetrate the powerful defense employed by Attorney Villasin during their bout. While Jose was seemingly humble and self-deprecating, he possessed an inner strength that surprised everyone agile in action yet as strong as a bull! His confidence showed through during the dueling test which ended quickly but marked the beginning of his training with Teofilo.

Teofilo Velez was an integral figure in the preservation of Balintawak art. From his home base, he fostered a community where Grandmaster Anciong Bacon could evaluate nightly workouts by members of the Villasin-Velez branch and make sure everyone is progressing accordingly. As his senior instructors, Bobby Taboada guided pupils alongside Teofilo’s sons Chito, Eddie and Monie to keep this style alive for current generations to learn from.

Balintawak is indebted to Velez for the students that learned loyalty and commitment to Villasin, Bacon, and most importantly Balintawak. He was known as an amicable friend but staunchly defended his style when it came under attack; particularly strict in raising up Bobby and other pupils he took on as sons of sorts.

Teofilo Valez was a personable and jolly individual, always eager to connect with others. His commitment to the Balintawak cause never wavered; he steadfastly remained an unwavering protector of their reputation. He wasn’t just a skilled martial artist; he was also an inspiring teacher. He used his humble resources to support and grow the Balintawak art, often hosting gatherings at home for members of the system. Despite its casual atmosphere, Grandmaster Velez imposed strong discipline over his children—Chito, Eddie Moniee, Caridad and Bobby Taboada—fostering their skills with rigour in order to honorably carry on this specialized craft.

Every night, Villasin visited his club in the Parian District to hone his skills and begin training. However, as he became more passionate about martial arts, it quickly turned into a nightly routine – going from Velez’s backyard on Sikatuna Street for workouts until classes at home began again. Velez’s humble backyard was a makeshift workout facility for students desiring to learn his martial arts. With limited space, we were forced to take our training more intimately-both physically in the cramped area and figuratively due to Velez’ close guidance of us as practitioners.

Teofilo Valez remains an inspirational icon for martial arts enthusiasts with his lifetime dedication and expertise in both Balintawak and Arnis.