Bahala Na - Giron Arnis Escrima
© Houston Martial Arts Academy 2018
info@houstonmartialartsacademy.com
Leo M. Giron was a World War II veteran who fought with an elite unit of the United States Army
behind enemy lines in the Philippines and was awarded the Bronze Star medal amongst many
other citations. Grand Master Emeritus Giron designed his system to overcome a larger and
stronger opponent in life-or-death encounters. GME Giron’s system of escrima contains many
ingenious exercises and strategies while remaining the essence of simplicity. We are proud to
carry on and honor his legacy through the teachings of Grand Master Tony Somera.
Houston Martial Arts Academy was decreed as the home of “Bahala Na Houston” by Grand
Master Antonio Somera in January 2007. Since then, Bahala Na Houston has expanded.
There are three Affiliates in the Houston area; Guro Joe Galleon (HMAA), Jason Evans
(HMAA) and Guro Rick Stalons (Ground Dwellers). Together they do their part in spreading
the word and sharing the art of GME Giron and GM Somera to the Houston Area through
demonstrations, workshops and hosting Bahala Na/Giron Arnis Escrima seminars.
Background
GME Giron was a Seargent in
the U.S. Army during WW II
Grand Master Tony Somera with
Masters Kirk McCune and Joel
Juanitas
Grand Master Emeritus Giron with
the “Masters Fan” showing the 20
styles of Giron Arnis Escrima
Arnis, Kali, Escrima, Filipino Martial Arts
As a direct result of superior skill and devotion to the principles, philosophy and purpose of
Bahala Na Martial Arts combined with leadership and his master level Instructorship, Master
Tony Somera was promoted to the rank and responsibility of Grand Master by the late
Grand Master and founder of Bahala Na® Martial Arts Leo M. Giron. Grand Master Somera
promoted the art of Giron® Arnis Escrima along with its rich Filipino History and culture by
providing opportunities for students and community members to visit historic sites and learn
Filipino American history through bi-annual “affiliate camps” held in Stockton. Tony Somera
is the only person ever to be promoted to the rank of Master and then Grand Master by the
late Grand Master Emeritus Leo M. Giron.
Contact Us at: info@houstonmartialartsacademy.com
2012 Center St.
Houston, TX 77007
Grand Master Emeritus Leo Giron’s Teachers
Benito Junito: Larga Mano & Fondo Fuerte
Fractuso Junio: uncle of Benito Junio, Macabebe & shared the concept and differences between
old (cada-anan) and new (cabaroan) styles of Luzon.
Flaviano Vergara: Estilo Elastico and presented GME with the Masters Fan.
Beningo Ramos: Estilo Matador, Larga Mano, Miscla Contras, Tero Pisada, Tero Grave, and Elastico
Julian Bondoc: Larga Mano & Hilot
Braulio Bolante: Estilo Bolante