Jeepney Press

A Stunning Display of Tradition: Mutya Filipino Fighting Arts Academy (MFFAA) Take Center Stage

by MJ Solano

During the 126th Philippine Independence Day Festival in Nagoya, people were stunned by the first cultural performance: an incredible display of the national martial arts of the Philippine archipelago. The star of the show was the fantastic female grandmaster, Mildred “Mutya” Nakamura. Her skills, grace, and charisma amazed everyone.

The Great Grand Master with a Vision

Grand Master Mildred Mutya Nakamura founded Mutya Filipino Fighting Arts Academy in Osaka, Japan. With over forty years of experience, she has dedicated her life to learning and teaching Arnis, Eskrima, and Kali. She began her training as a child under her father in her hometown of Zamboanga. During the festival, GM (Grand Master) Mutya moved with smoothness and precision, showcasing decades of practice and expertise. She used rattan sticks to perform solo baston, double baston, and punta y daga with elegance. GM Mutya also engaged the audience by discussing the history and significance of Kali, Arnis, and Eskrima, making the performance both entertaining and educational.

Diverse Group of Students

The performance was further enhanced by the diversity of GM Mutya’s students. Her group comprises individuals from various backgrounds, including Japan, Russia, the Philippines, and America, with ages ranging from 18 to 49 years old. This demonstrates that Filipino martial arts can be enjoyed by anyone. Her students included experienced fighters, all united by their love for Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Each student brought something unique to the performance, showcasing different techniques, from solo moves to partner sparring and group forms that highlighted teamwork. The audience watched in amazement as these diverse students moved in unison, their sticks striking in rhythm.

A First-Time Parade

This year was special because it marked the first time the Filipino community in Nagoya held a parade celebrating Filipino culture. Grand Master Mutya and her students joined this colorful parade, marching proudly, demonstrating their skills, and representing the rich tradition of Filipino martial arts. Their presence in the parade added excitement and pride, making the event even more memorable. It highlighted the importance of tradition and national pride.

Impressed Global Audience

The festival audience included the governor of Aichi, the mayor of Nagoya, the Nagoya consul, and many other important figures. Time seemingly stopped as people from different walks of life gave their full attention to the stunning performance by MFFAA. Many had little prior knowledge of Filipino martial arts, but MFFAA’s impactful performance was an eye-opening experience that made them appreciate this lesser-known aspect of Filipino culture.

GM Mutya and her students left a powerful impression, not only as martial artists but also as ambassadors of this cultural legacy. Their groundbreaking show proved how the ancestral knowledge of Filipinos can foster strength and unity, and their camaraderie showed how Filipino martial arts can transcend borders and bring people together.

Mutya Filipino Fighting Arts Academy’s presence at the 126th Philippine Independence Day Festival in Nagoya was more than just entertainment; it was a lesson in diversity and cultural heritage. As the audience applauded loudly at the end, many were inspired to learn more about Filipino martial arts. In a country where FMA was not well known, Grand Master Mildred Mutya Nakamura and her outstanding students have ignited a new and exciting community.

Filipino-Japanese Beauty Queen wins Miss Supranational Japan 2024

by MJ Solano

In a historic moment that sent ripples of joy throughout Filipino-Japanese communities, Miss Yuki Du Sonoda won the Miss Supranational 2024 title and crown, marking a consecutive win for the community. Miss Supranational 2023, Mayuko Hanawa, passed the crown to her fellow Filipino-Japanese beauty queen in Tokyo on May 5th, 2024.

Who is Yuki Sonoda, and why does she deserve the crown? Yuki was born in the Philippines and moved to Japan when she was in primary school. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Law at Rikkyo University and fluently speaks Filipino, Japanese, and English. She is a proud bicultural woman who grew up watching Filipino TV in Japan. As a child, she dreamed of becoming a celebrity someday. With much effort and grace, Yuki successfully found ways to be a model and actress in Manila, where she currently has a contract with Viva Agency.

More than a pretty face, she stands out for her unwavering dedication to meaningful advocacies. She has been using her platform to shine a light on women’s health and support for migrants. By openly discussing the importance of women's health, she is empowering many women to prioritize their well-being and seek the care they deserve. This queen is also a staunch supporter of migrant communities. Having navigated the challenges of living overseas herself, she understands the struggles faced by third-culture kids like her and migrants alike. She seeks to provide support and guidance to those who find themselves uncomfortable in their new environment, offering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Yuki’s colorful journey from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of success serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the beauty of diversity. Her win serves as a reminder that true beauty transcends physical appearance; it lies in the courage to embrace one's identity and the strength to defy expectations. As she gracefully walks the runway, she not only wears a crown but also carries the dreams of a community united in pride and admiration. Through her tireless efforts, she has been bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and creating a more inclusive society where all individuals, regardless of their background, feel valued.

For Filipinos residing in Japan, her victory is a sign of acceptance in a society often bound by tradition. With each step she takes, she is paving the way for a more compassionate and diverse society. As we celebrate her victory, let us also follow her adamant commitment to making the world a better place. Mabuhay!

Photos courtesy of Ms. Yuki Sonoda

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