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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Balintawak Cuentada Arnis, founded by Venancio "Anciong" Bacon in 1952 in Cebu, Philippines, is a close-quarters single rattan stick system. The Cuentada level cascade tests rapid block-and-strike counters, stick disarming, Punyo butt strikes, left-hand pulling, and immediate counter-countering.

1st Level – Cuentada Level 1

Cuentada 1Rank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic 12 striking angles with single rattan stick, blocking, and immediate counter.

Symbolism & Meaning

Famous close-quarters Filipino art founded by Anciong Bacon in 1952 in Cebu.

2nd Level – Cuentada Level 2

Cuentada 2Rank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Rapid stick disarming, wrist and elbow locks in tight contact, left hand strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Developing the "Cuentada" concept – calculating and trapping opponent reactions.

3rd Level – Cuentada Level 3

Cuentada 3Rank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Continuous random speed drills, grouping, and Dumog wrestling takedowns.

Symbolism & Meaning

Ability to react instantly to unpredictable attacks within milliseconds.

4th Level – Fully Qualified Instructor

Full InstructorRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full teaching certification. Instructing Cuentada method and running school.

Symbolism & Meaning

Officially recognized instructor authorized to transmit Bacon's legacy.

5th Level – Grandmaster Balintawak

GrandmasterRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Keeper of style purity and head of federation.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Living legend from Cebu embodying Balintawak invincibility.