Arnis as National Martial Art and Sport

Republic Act No. 9850 declares as State policy the inculcation of patriotism, nationalism, and appreciation of the role of national heroes and symbols in the historical development of the country.
Republic Act No. 9850 directs that the State must give priority to education, science and technology, arts and culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism.
Republic Act No. 9850 mandates that such priority shall accelerate social progress and promote total human liberation and development.

Section 2 defines Arnis, also known as Eskrima, Kali, Garrote and other names in various regional languages.
Section 2 includes regional names such as Pananandata (Tagalog), Pagkalikali and related forms (Ibanag), Kabaraon and Kalirongan (Pangasinan), Kaliradman (Bisaya), and Didja (Ilokano).
Section 2 characterizes Arnis as an indigenous Filipino martial art and sport using swinging and twirling movements.
Section 2 provides that Arnis uses striking, thrusting, and parrying techniques for defense and offense.
Section 2 provides that Arnis is usually done using one (1) or two (2) sticks or similar implements or with bare hands and feet.
Section 2 states that bare hands and feet are used for striking, blocking, locking, and grappling using the same principle as those with canes.

Section 3 declares Arnis as the Philippine National Martial Art and Sport.
Section 3 requires official adoption by inscribing the symbol of arnis in the official seal of the Philippine Sports Commission.
Section 3 requires the symbol adoption to be paired with making Arnis the first sport competition to be played by participating teams on the first day of the annual Palarong Pambansa.
Section 3 designates the Philippine Sports Commission as the lead agency to implement the Act.

Section 4 requires the Department of Education to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to carry out the Act.
Section 4 requires the National Commission for Culture and Arts to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to carry out the Act.
Section 4 requires the Philippine Sports Commission to promulgate necessary rules and regulations to carry out the Act.

Section 5 repeals, amends, or modifies any provision of law, decree, executive order, rule, or regulation that conflicts or is inconsistent with the provisions and purposes of Republic Act No. 9850.