← Back to martial art

General overview of grades

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

Kabaroan Eskrima (Kabaroan Cemento), an authentic Filipino family system from Ilocos founded by the Cabaro family and led by Grandmaster Ramiro Estalilla, is famous for two-handed long staff (Bangkaw) fencing. The 5-level hierarchy evaluates Tarang footwork, two-handed staff/machete combat, disarming, and empty-hand defense.

1st Level – Student

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic rattan stick stances, long-range Lapuntap striking, and distance management.

Symbolism & Meaning

Filipino family system founded by Estalilla family specialized in long weapons.

2nd Level – Advanced Student

Advanced StudentRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Double stick combat, Tarangban machete, and moving disarming patterns.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening fluidity across 24 traditional Kabaroan weapon concepts.

3rd Level – Guro (Instructor)

Guro KabaroanRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Full teaching certification. Empty-hand self-defense and knife combat.

Symbolism & Meaning

Guro = Official instructor authorized to transmit Estalilla legacy.

4th Level – Maestro (Senior Master)

Typical gap since previous grade: 48 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Senior master rank. Conducting examinations and developing unique grip concepts.

Symbolism & Meaning

Maestro = Recognized authority in Filipino martial arts internationally.

5th Level – Grandmaster

GrandmasterRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 72 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living lineage head and sole global guarantor.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Keeper of the sacred Ramiro Estalilla legacy.