Bontokano

Bontokano is a traditional martial art originating from the Bontok people, an indigenous group primarily residing in the Cordillera region of the Philippines, particularly in the provinces of Mountain Province, Ifugao, and Benguet. The practice reflects the cultural heritage and combat techniques of the Bontok, who historically relied on these skills for protection, hunting, and communal defense.

The art emphasizes fluid, efficient movements that utilize natural body mechanics, often incorporating elements of agility, balance, and precision. Bontokano techniques typically involve the use of improvised weapons such as sticks, knives, or even bare hands, though some modern practitioners may also use traditional weapons like the *gumayong* (a curved sword) or *bambú* (a bamboo spear). Training often includes drills for footwork, striking, and evasion, as well as philosophical teachings on discipline, respect, and community.

Bontokano is closely tied to the Bontok’s pre-colonial way of life, where martial skills were essential for survival in the rugged terrain of the Cordillera. The practice has been passed down through generations, with elders and master practitioners (*mangyari*) playing a key role in preserving its techniques and cultural significance. In contemporary times, Bontokano has gained recognition as part of the Philippines’ broader martial arts heritage, with some practitioners integrating it into modern fitness and self-defense training.

While Bontokano shares similarities with other indigenous Filipino martial arts (FMA), such as *Arnis* or *Pancoran*, its distinct movements and cultural context set it apart. Efforts to document and promote Bontokano have helped ensure its continuity, though challenges remain in maintaining its authenticity amid modernization. Today, it serves as both a physical discipline and a cultural symbol of the Bontok people’s resilience and identity.