The number of participants for the Enersel Forte National youth arnis festival has increased  despite the ongoing Palarong Pambansa and summer vacation for most schools.

Over 200 entries have already signed up, and organizers are confident they will reach the target 300- mark when the competition is held today and tomorrow at the SM Megamall Activity Center.

Department of Education officials at the Palaro have taken note of the event, mentioning it to arnis participants at the Palaro.

“We are merely continuing the vision of our late Grandmaster Roland Dantes in bringing arnis to everyone, especially the youth,” said tournament director Rey Dominguez. “We are very grateful to Enersel Forte and SEL-J Sports for their great help in supporting this event for the kids.”

This will be the first major arnis event of the country, to be followed by the World Arnis Open (WAO) in October. The event has received the support of the Cebu City Sports Commission, Cacoy Doce Pares World Federation, and the Davao City Sports Committee.

Last year’s one-day event drew  130 participants with only one competition mat.

Medals and certificates will be given out to all champions, runners-up and third-placers. Children will be competing in anyo (forms) and sparring matches from ages 8 to 18. Interested participants may e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 6692100.