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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.

Cabales Serrada Escrima, founded by Great Grandmaster Angel Cabales in Stockton, California (1964), was the first public FMA academy in the USA. The 6-level hierarchy from Basic Serrada to Master evaluates 12 striking angles using a short 24-inch rattan stick in close quarters (Serrada = close-range), disarming, Punyo butt strikes, and knife counters.

1st Level – Basic Serrada

Basic SerradaRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic 12 striking angles with rattan stick, Lock & Block, & close footwork.

Symbolism & Meaning

Close-quarters Filipino system created by Angel Cabales in 1966 in Stockton.

2nd Level – Intermediate Serrada

IntermediateRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 9 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Rapid stick disarming, single-tempo counters, and Punyo butt strikes.

Symbolism & Meaning

Serrada = "Closed". Closing opponent's attack angles without retreating.

3rd Level – Advanced Serrada

Advanced SerradaRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Doble Baston double stick combat, Espada y Daga sword & dagger, and knife.

Symbolism & Meaning

Extending close defense principles from single stick to full weaponry.

4th Level – Basic Instructor

Basic InstructorRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 30 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Instructor certification. Teaching basic and intermediate Cabales Escrima.

Symbolism & Meaning

Officially recognized instructor authorized to lead a dōjō in Cabales lineage.

5th Level – Master Graduate

Master GraduateRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full master rank. Mastery of unarmed Pangamut defense and disarms.

Symbolism & Meaning

Master Graduate = Certified master personally approved by the Cabales family.

6th Level – Senior Grandmaster

Senior GrandmasterRank #6

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest Grandmaster title. Living legend and founding lineage guarantor.

Symbolism & Meaning

Senior Grandmaster = Supreme global authority of Cabales Serrada Escrima.