Netsare

Netsare is a martial art originating from the Philippines. It is a stickfighting discipline that emphasizes the use of rattan or bamboo sticks as a primary striking instrument.

Unlike other martial arts that focus on direct attacks, Netsare employs a strategic approach that emphasizes defense and counterattacking techniques. Practitioners, known as netsarero, are trained to regulate their movements and conserve their energy, awaiting opportunities to execute precise strikes.

The art is believed to have been developed as a response to the need for self-defense among rural and urban communities in the Philippines. Netsare has also been associated with various festivals and celebrations in the country, often serving as a means of showcasing martial skills and community unity.

Practitioners of Netsare typically engage in comprehensive training that includes physical conditioning, technical drills, and combat simulation exercises. The art places significant emphasis on developing hand-eye coordination, timing, and spatial awareness.

Modern efforts are being made to preserve and promote Netsare as a heritage martial art. This includes the establishment of dedicated training programs and community outreach initiatives that aim to disseminate the art's history, philosophy, and techniques to a wider audience. Despite its contributions to Filipino martial arts heritage, Netsare remains a relatively unknown discipline globally, challenging efforts to document and preserve its heritage.