"The Beacon" – Senior Master … the guiding light in the foundation and creation of Pulahan-Derobio Eskrima.
-Professor – 8th Dan Red/Black Border under Grandmaster Julian “Blue” Generalao - Generalao Method Karazenpo Go Shinjutsu Shaolin and Hawaiian Kempo / Kajukenbo

Master Chaz Siangco, born and raised in Hawaii, is a highly accomplished and respected martial artist with over four decades of experience in training, competition, and instruction. He is one of the highest-ranked practitioners of the Derobio style of Eskrima and has dedicated his life to preserving and advancing this ancient Filipino martial art. Raised in a family deeply rooted in martial tradition, Master Chaz’s journey began at an early age, shaped by the guidance and teachings of legendary masters within his own family.

Early Life and Martial Lineage

From the moment he could walk and hold a garrote (stick), Master Chaz and his brothers were immersed in the art of Derobio Eskrima. Their early training was deeply influenced by their great-grandfather, the late Great Grandmaster Braulio Tomada Pedoy — one of the most influential figures in the history of Filipino Martial Arts. Under the watchful eye of Batikan Eduardo Pedoy and their father, Grandmaster Chris Siangco, the Siangco brothers were trained in the traditional methods of Eskrima, passed down through centuries of Filipino martial culture.

The Siangco brothers' training was conducted in the "old ways," preserving the authenticity and effectiveness of Derobio Eskrima as it had been practiced for generations. This approach emphasized not only physical combat skills but also the spiritual and philosophical principles embedded in the Derobio Creed — humility, respect, and the responsibility to protect and preserve life. This strong foundation established in childhood became the bedrock of Master Chaz’s lifelong dedication to the martial arts.

Martial Arts Training and Cross-Disciplinary Experience

At the encouragement of his father, Master Chaz expanded his martial arts knowledge beyond Eskrima, seeking to deepen both his physical and spiritual understanding of combat. Throughout his childhood and teenage years, he trained in a variety of martial disciplines, including:

• Kajukenbo – A hybrid martial art combining karate, judo, jiu-jitsu, kenpo, and boxing.

• Chinese Kenpo – A refined system of striking and self-defense techniques emphasizing fluid motion and precision.

• Tae Kwon Do – A Korean martial art focused on powerful kicks and fast, dynamic movements.

• Boxing – Enhancing his hand speed, footwork, and striking power.

• Wrestling – Developing grappling skills, takedowns, and ground control.

This comprehensive training allowed Master Chaz to develop a versatile and adaptable fighting style. Over the years, he integrated these disciplines into his foundation in Derobio Eskrima, creating a balanced and highly effective combat system. His exposure to various martial arts not only improved his technical capabilities but also strengthened his mental resilience and strategic thinking in combat scenarios.

Professional Career and Law Enforcement Expertise

Master Chaz’s commitment to discipline and personal growth extended into his professional life. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration and a Master’s in Restorative Justice. He has served as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer with the Department of Justice, Custody Sergeant with the Chula Vista Police Department, and currently with the San Diego County Probation Department. His experience in law enforcement provides him with valuable insights into real-world conflict resolution, use-of-force protocols, and situational awareness — skills that would later influence his approach to teaching and tactical training.

Currently, Master Chaz serves as a Force Options Arrest and Control / Defensive Tactics Instructor, training law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals. His expertise in both traditional martial arts and modern tactical training allows him to deliver practical, real-world instruction tailored to the demands of contemporary law enforcement and security operations.

Leadership in Derobio Eskrima and Tactical Training

As one of the highest-ranked practitioners of Derobio Eskrima, Master Chaz plays a pivotal role in preserving and advancing the art. He currently oversees the overall development and curriculum of the Pulahan-Derobio Eskrima system, ensuring that the next generation of martial artists inherits the core principles and techniques of this storied tradition. His leadership extends beyond traditional Eskrima, as he continues to adapt and evolve the art to meet modern combat challenges.

In collaboration with Roger Gehring, a 20-year combat veteran with the U.S. Navy SEALs, Master Chaz co-developed the A.R.M. Tactical Combatives Training Module Program — a comprehensive combat system combining the principles of Derobio Eskrima with other advanced fighting methodologies. This program is designed to equip military, law enforcement, and security personnel with the skills needed to navigate complex combat situations effectively.

Master Chaz’s influence extends internationally, having trained and instructed elite professionals, including:

• Black Belt martial artists across multiple disciplines

• Filipino martial arts practitioners

• DEA agents

• Border Patrol officers

• Police officers

• Military and Naval Special Operations personnel

His ability to bridge the gap between traditional martial arts and modern tactical training has made him a sought-after instructor and mentor within the global martial arts community.

Philosophy and Teaching Approach

Master Chaz’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the virtues of the Derobio Creed: humility, respect, honor, and responsibility. He believes that martial arts training extends beyond physical combat — it is a path to personal growth, self-discovery, and mental discipline. His teaching emphasizes not only technical excellence but also the development of character and moral integrity.

By teaching and mentoring students, Master Chaz has found his own path of continuous learning. He views his students as both learners and teachers, gaining deeper insights into his art through their growth and experiences. His commitment to preserving and evolving Derobio Eskrima reflects his belief that martial arts is a living tradition, shaped by each generation of practitioners.

Rank and Recognition

In addition to his expertise in Derobio Eskrima, Master Chaz holds the prestigious rank of Professor (8th Dan - Red/Black Border) in Chinese Kenpo/Kajukenbo under the mentorship of Grandmaster Julian “Blue” Generalao. This rank reflects not only his technical mastery but also his dedication to the art and his contributions to the martial arts community.

Master Chaz’s achievements as a martial artist, instructor, and mentor underscore his lifelong commitment to the martial arts. His influence extends beyond the training floor, shaping the next generation of martial artists and tactical professionals. Through his leadership in Derobio Eskrima and his innovative approach to combat training, Master Chaz Siangco continues to honor his family’s legacy while paving the way for the future of martial arts.