about us
pamana kali
Pamana Kali is a Filipino martial art deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Philippines. The name 'Pamana,' translating to 'heritage' or 'legacy' in Tagalog, epitomizes our unwavering commitment to safeguarding and transmitting traditional wisdom and values.
As a cultural practice, Pamana Kali embodies the very spirit and history of the Filipino people. It acts as a tangible link connecting practitioners with the ancestors who meticulously developed and perfected these martial arts across generations.
At Pamana Kali, practitioners immerse themselves in time-honored Filipino cultural traditions and values. The cornerstone of our practice, Kali, provides a dynamic platform for the expression and celebration of Filipino identity, nurturing an enduring sense of pride and belonging.
Our art champions core principles — respect, humility, and discipline — that extend beyond the training hall and permeate daily life, mirroring the deep communal bonds ingrained in Filipino society.
Pamana Kali also serves as a cultural bridge, inviting individuals from diverse backgrounds to engage with the rich tapestry of our Filipino heritage. Through our practice, we encourage cultural exchange, fostering mutual appreciation, understanding, and the forging of connections between different communities.
Through dedicated practice, individuals not only gain self-defense skills but also cultivate a profound appreciation for Filipino culture. This transformative journey forges a stronger sense of identity and plays a pivotal role in preserving the culturally rich heritage of the Philippines.
After a decade of rigorous training at the Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts, Guro Alvin Catacutan achieved certification in Kali, Silat, and Jun Fan Gung Fu / JKD under the mentorship of the renowned Martial Arts Legend, Guro Dan Inosanto. Guro Dan generously extended his blessings, empowering Guro Alvin to establish Pamana Kali in Torrance, California.
Torrance, California holds special significance as it was once the home of the original Filipino Kali Academy, where Dan Inosanto instructed the very first generation of Kali and JKD students in California.
In August 2018, the grand celebration marked the beginning of Pamana Kali's journey, and on September 1, we proudly opened our doors, welcoming our founding students to their first official classes.
Our school is envisioned as a cultural sanctuary, offering a unique space for individuals to immerse themselves in the culture and heritage of Filipinos in America. Here, the martial art of Kali serves as a profound connection, linking practitioners to the rich warrior heritage of American Filipinos.
Meet guro alvin
CERTIFICATIONS / TRAINING
Kali Black Belt - Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts, Guro Dan Inosanto
Majapahit Silat Black Ikat - Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts, Guro Dan Inosanto
Official representative - Silat Buka Lingkaran, Guro Alvin Guinanao
Jun Fan Gung Fu and Jeet Kune Do Instructor - Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts, Guro Dan Inosanto
Shotokan Karate Black Belt - Japan Karate Association, Phillip Dingman Sensei
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt -Professor Hugh Fitzgerald
Guro Catacutan is continuing his FMA journey under the tutelage of Guro Mark Mikita.
Guro alvin CATACUTAN
Founder
Guro Alvin Catacutan, a distinguished cultural educator and martial artist, is your trusted guide into the world of Filipino and Southeast Asian martial arts. With certifications spanning multiple martial arts disciplines, his extensive background includes remarkable achievements in theater, film, and television, where he's excelled as an actor, fight choreographer, and martial arts consultant.
Under the direct mentorship of martial arts legend Guro Dan Inosanto at the renowned Inosanto Academy of Martial Arts, Guro Alvin found a profound connection to his Filipino heritage. His journey continues as he refines his skills under the expert tutelage of Guro Mark Mikita at the Mikita School of Martial Arts, where he specializes in Eskrima, a martial art celebrated for its practical and effective techniques.
Guro Alvin isn't just an instructor, he's also a passionate speaker and workshop facilitator. He shares insightful perspectives on how Filipino culture and martial arts empower individuals of all ages, helping them unlock their full potential.
As the founder and head instructor of Pamana Kali: Philippine Martial Arts and Culture, located in Torrance, California, Guro Alvin Catacutan has a special mission: to introduce learners of all ages to the world of Filipino and Southeast Asian martial arts. His classes are designed to cater to young minds seeking discipline, confidence, and cultural appreciation, as well as adults who value personal growth, fitness, and self-defense.
At Pamana Kali, Guro Alvin creates a welcoming and inspiring environment for learners of every age to embark on a transformative journey through martial arts education.
AT PAMANA KALI, each movement serves as a catalyst that awakens the genetic code of OUR WARRIOR ANCESTORS.
“if you’re looking for a place to start your journey, this is the place.”
— Quent Roxas, united fist martial arts
