Women Arnis Coaches in Philippine Schools: Knowledge, Skills, and Perceptions under Republic Act No. 9850

Abstract

Republic Act No. 9850 declares Arnis the National Martial Art and Sport of the Philippines and mandates its integration into the school curriculum. Although historically male-dominated, women now serve as coaches, educators, and promoters of Arnis. This study assessed the knowledge, skills, and perceptions of women Arnis coaches in Nueva Ecija, examining their role in implementing RA 9850 and sustaining Arnis as both a sport and a cultural practice. Using a descriptive mixed-methods design, 46 elementary and secondary school coaches completed a structured questionnaire covering four promotion dimensions (education, activities, advocacy, funding) and five coaching skill domains (basic skills, combative skills, Anyo, strategies and tactics, coaching practices). Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Qualitative data were examined using thematic analysis to capture issues and challenges faced by coaches, along with their recommendations. Results indicated strong curriculum integration and active educational roles, with the highest scores in education and coaching practices. Funding and other skills were identified as areas needing improvement. Qualitative findings revealed insufficient resources, limited professional development, and weak institutional support. Coaches recommended increased funding, training programmes, and stronger policy implementation. The study highlights the essential contributions of women coaches in promoting Arnis while emphasising the need for targeted support to enhance their professional capacity and foster sustainable, inclusive martial arts education.