At 64, the Philippine martial arts specialist continues to win world titles and train elite units
Rene Catiil Casiño, better known by his pseudonym KKG, represents a unique phenomenon in the world of martial arts—a man who has successfully united ancient Philippine combat traditions with the demands of modern mixed martial arts and functional training.
The Lakas Katorse System: From Tradition to Practice
Casiño is the founder of the Lakas Katorse FMA and Fitness system—a comprehensive training approach that combines authentic Philippine martial arts (FMA) in military style, MMA elements, and high-intensity physical conditioning. Unlike many modern martial arts schools, his methodology maintains a focus on practical application of techniques in real self-defense and combat scenarios.
Parallel to developing his own system, Casiño holds the position of Vice President of Juego Todo—an innovative Philippine hybrid contact sport. In this role, he oversees the development of rules and techniques that integrate wrestling, grappling, and submissions using both (training) weapons and unarmed techniques. Juego Todo has become a bridge of sorts between traditional Philippine combat practices and modern competition formats.
International Recognition and Professional Journey
Casiño’s professional journey began with obtaining certifications as a fitness trainer and gym instructor. Over the years, he evolved into an internationally recognized specialist, developing the “Filipino Fitness Combat” program, where strength exercises are organically combined with combat drills.
His contribution to the development of martial arts has received international recognition. In Qatar, Casiño was awarded the title “Most Outstanding Health & Fitness Martial Arts, Therapeutic Instructor” for achievements in therapeutic fitness and martial arts. In Saudi Arabia, he received recognition from the King Fahd Naval Academy as an outstanding sports mentor who contributed to cadet training.
Casiño also conducts the FMA Online Impact and Edged Weapons Instructor Course, teaching instructors techniques with impact and bladed weapons—knowledge he has accumulated over more than two decades.
Competitive Achievements
Despite his age, Casiño continues to actively compete and achieve outstanding results. He is a multiple medalist at the international level in various disciplines: arnis (traditional Philippine martial art with weapons), combat with bolo (machete) and knives, MMA, as well as strength sports—powerlifting, CrossFit, and Strongman.
The peak of his recent achievements came in 2025, when at the World Invitational Arnis Championship in the seniors category, he won the title of Grand Champion and the gold medal. At 64, Casiño demonstrated phenomenal technique and physical endurance, proving that age is not a barrier to achieving the highest level of athletic performance.
Training Methodology and Working with Elite Forces
The main focus of the Lakas Katorse system is directed toward training professionals from law enforcement and security forces. Casiño regularly conducts training for military personnel, police officers, SWAT units, and private security guards. The program places special emphasis on techniques with knife and bolo machete, clinch techniques against aggressive opponents, and conducting close combat in confined spaces.
His hybrid training sessions combine FMA and MMA elements: from street drills with weapons to sessions in gyms. In doing so, Casiño invariably emphasizes the authenticity of Philippine traditions and the adaptability of techniques to real threats.
Through social media and video materials, including compilations of his own training at age 64, he motivates thousands of followers worldwide. For Casiño, fitness is not merely physical form, but a key to longevity, combat effectiveness, and mental resilience.
Legacy and Influence
The work of Rene Catiil Casiño extends beyond training individual fighters. He contributes to the revival and popularization of the cultural heritage of Philippine martial arts on the world stage, demonstrating how ancient techniques can be adapted to modern realities without losing their effectiveness and authenticity.
In an era when traditional martial arts are often criticized for being disconnected from practical applicability, the Lakas Katorse system serves as an example of successful synthesis—where respect for traditions is combined with a pragmatic approach to self-defense and physical training.
Material prepared based on open sources and official information about the activities of Rene Catiil Casiño.
