Traditional martial arts took the spotlight as the Philippine Army and the Royal Thai Army held their first-ever Martial Arts Subject Matter Exchange (SMEE), focusing on Arnis and Muay Thai.
The four-day training, conducted from 17 to 20 February at Fort Bonifacio, was spearheaded by the Headquarters Support Group (HHSG, PA) in partnership with their Thai counterparts. It forms part of the two armies’ agreed joint activities lined up through 2027.
Participating troops from the Special Service Center, HHSG didn’t just observe — they rolled up their sleeves for hands-on drills, applying Arnis and Muay Thai techniques in practical combat exercises. A special demonstration was also staged during the Royal Thai Armed Forces Anniversary celebration, showcasing the rich tradition and history behind both martial arts.
Army officials said the addition of the Martial Arts SMEE strengthens both forces’ close-quarters combat capabilities while reinforcing cultural ties. For the Philippine Army, it also advances efforts to institutionalize Arnis as a core combative skill and part of the warrior ethos being promoted under Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete’s leadership.
Beyond technique, the exchange highlighted mutual respect, shared discipline and the enduring value of traditional martial arts in modern military training.