Two Japanese aikido masters visit RP

Two high-ranking Japanese aikido instructors from Aikikai Headquarters in Tokyo visited the Philippines recently and shared their insights and experience about the art which was founded by O’Sensei Morihei Ueshiba more than 60 years ago in Japan.

Motohiro Fukakusa Sensei, 7th Dan, chief instructor of Thaiaikikai in Bangkok, Thailand and aikido caretaker of Southeast Asian countries, was in Manila last March 22-24 and in Bacolod from March 25-27 for the annual Easter Seminar organized by the Aikikai Center of the Philippines (ACP) in cooperation with the three aikikai-affiliated federations present in the country namely PAPA, FFA, and Aikido Philippines.

An internationally well-known aikido instructor, Fukakusa Sensei taught several self-defense techniques that anyone can apply in everyday life. He also demonstrated the art of aikiken and aikijo (use of the sword and the stick in aikido). His classes were well attended in Manila and especially in Bacolod, where over 50 aikido students and enthusiasts joined him in this Easter Seminar. The Bacolod event would not have been possible were it not for the dedicated assistance of Noel and Stella Fuentes of Kyokan dojo there.

Jun Nomoto Sensei, 7th Dan from Tokyo and chief instructor of the Satomi Hakkenkai group, was in Manila for only one day but left an impressive mark on the aikidokas who practiced with him at ACP in Valle Verde Country Club last March 30. A very energetic and powerful instructor, he stressed the importance of stability and direction in applying aikido techniques. At the request of the students, he promised to return in October with some Japanese aikidokas.

An organizer of several aikido-related events, ACP offers daily aikido classes at their new dojo in the Valle Verde Country Club in Pasig City. Special summer classes are offered for children and beginners as well. Those interested in joining these classes, please call or text 0917-6659709.