Techniques are learned in the Doce Methodos or 12 methods, which are the twelve subsystems of Pekiti-Tirsia. Today, the tradition of Pekiti-Tirsia is carried on by Master Leo T. Gaje, Jr., a direct descendant of Master Tortal. Master Gaje continues to teach Pekiti-Tirsia throughout the world and has left a legacy in the many schools and instructors in the Pekiti system. At the New York School of Philippino Martial Arts we try to hold true to the traditions embodied by Pekiti-Tirsia. Through repetitive exercises students learn the principles of body motion, stick and knife fighting, empty hand combat, and the psychology of warfare and self-defense.
Emphasis is placed on the small things, like basic footwork and strikes.
Class structure is loose, number of students small, and our existence is the result of our dedication to the art. Method Pekiti Tirsia is a Filipino martial art of blades, sticks, knives, empty hands, and combinations of these weapons. This particular system favors close quarters training over long distance or medium range. Since leading a small class I have been gradually modifying the training content of my Pekiti Tirsia Arnis. Initially, it was a hesitant approach not wanting to alter what was taught to me.