In traditional practice, Kali techniques—a ritual dance with sharp weapons—are performed at sunrise. The Kali student whose strengths are supposed to be drawn from the sun also directs his eyes towards it, and avoids blinking for as long as possible. He also accustoms himself to seeing sharp swords swinging towards him without fear.

Pekiti-Tirsia's movements are based on the traditional blade art of the Philippines—Kali, involving slicing swords in a circular motion, symbolic of the orbits of the moon and the planets. They also incorporate triangular movements symbolic of constellations. In ancient times, Kali was taught in rituals and were then used pragmatically to survive against adversaries and wild animals. The Pekiti-Tirsia methodology originates from offensive and counter offensive principles against attacks from all ranges, angles and threat levels. There are no separate or specific defensive techniques as such, as the Pekiti-Tirsia Kali man is always seeking ways to end the conflict.

​

Pekiti-Tirsia Kali incorporates 9 main weapon categories (including the human body):

• Solo - Single stick or Sword

• Doble - Double stick or sword

• Espada y Daga - Sword and Dagger

• Sibat - Spear

• Daga y Daga - Knife to Knife

• Taming - Shield

• Wasay - Axe

• Sarong - Flexible Cloth

• Mano Mano - Hand to Hand

​