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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.

Sayoc Kali, created by the Sayoc family (Pamana Tuhon Christopher Sayoc), is a specialized Filipino all-blade combat system. The hierarchy from Initiate to Tuhon evaluates tactical knife feeder templates (Sayoc Silak/Vital Targets), concealed knife quick-drawing under stress, and team blade tactics.

1st Level – Initiate

InitiateRank #1

Typical gap since previous grade: 3 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic 9 slashing drills (Sayoc 9 Vital Targets) and fluid footwork.

Symbolism & Meaning

Entry into specialized Filipino system focused strictly on blades.

2nd Level – Practitioner

PractitionerRank #2

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Double Blade Template drills, rapid draw under pressure, and disarming patterns.

Symbolism & Meaning

Deepening the "Feeder" principle - anticipating opponent responses.

3rd Level – Associate Feeder

Associate FeederRank #3

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Projectile knife throwing tactics, whip combat, and teaching basic Sayoc templates.

Symbolism & Meaning

Official certified assistant instructor in the Sayoc family system.

4th Level – Full Feeder (Instructor)

Full FeederRank #4

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Complete mastery of all 10 Sayoc templates, combat in darkness, and teaching.

Symbolism & Meaning

Full instructor authorized to award lower ranks and lead groups.

5th Level – Tuhon Sayoc (Master)

Tuhon SayocRank #5

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest master title Tuhon. Direct student of Sayoc family and guardian of system.

Symbolism & Meaning

Tuhon = Elite grandmaster of tactical bladed weapon combat.