Kalis Ilustrisimo

Kalis means blade and Ilutrisimo is the name of the propagator of the system, Antonio ”Tatang” Ilustrisimo. The orientation of Kalis Ilustrisimo is based on bladed weapons.  Instruction in Ilustrisimo is based on the combat philosophy of Tatang Ilustrisimo when teaching and their application. The main goal of Ilustrisimo’s fighting system is winning the battle and coming out of it alive and unscathed.

The origin of Kalis Ilustrisimo can be tracked back in Bantayan Island in the Northern part of Cebu City. Kalis means blade and Ilutrisimo is the name of the propagator of the system, Antonio ”Tatang” Ilustrisimo.

What Kalis Ilustrisimo Punta y Daga system Includes

Kalis Ilustrisimo is a complete bladed Filipino martial arts system that focuses on efficiency, timing, and real-world application. The system includes:

What does “Punta y Daga” mean?

  • Punta = tip / thrust
  • Daga = dagger

Together, it refers to:
“sword and dagger fighting”
(also known as espada y daga in
other Filipino systems)




Core Principles

1. Distance Management
The sword controls long range
The dagger dominates close range
Practitioners learn to transition smoothly between ranges

2. Simultaneous Attack and Control
The sword delivers primary strikes

The dagger is used to:
– check or control the opponent’s weapon arm
– parry or deflect
– execute quick thrusts

Defense and offense happen at the same time, not in sequence

3. Flow and Continuity
– Movement is continuous and fluid
– If one strike fails, another follows instantly
– Both weapons operate in a constant rhythm

4. Combat Realism

Rooted in real blade application (not just sport)
Techniques are:
– direct
– efficient
– stripped of unnecessary motion

What makes Ilustrisimo unique?

The system was developed by Antonio Ilustrisimo, emphasizing:
simplicity and effectiveness
– minimal, practical movement
– precise timing and positioning

Punta y daga training is not just coordination—
it’s about strategy, timing, and reading the opponent

Summary

Punta y Daga in Kalis Ilustrisimo =

  • long blade + short blade combination
  • simultaneous attack and defense
  • strong distance control
  • continuous flow
  • highly practical combat system