Welcome To
ACWA Martial Arts Training Center
The ACWA (Armored Cross Warriors’ Academy) Martial Arts Training Center is a Christ-centered, combat-discipline training program. Founded by Dr. TJ Cuenca, a Christian warrior-shepherd, Punong Guro Filipino martial arts instructor, with nearly five decades of experience in the martial arts and trainer of elite special forces and law enforcement agencies from around the world, the ACWA trains modern Christian warriors to fight spiritual, mental and physical battles using biblical principles, martial arts, and real-world discipleship.
We serve believers who refuse to be passive in a broken world. We train men and women to armor up, build the Kingdom of God, and protect the innocent.
What We Offer
Realistic and Technical Martial Arts & Discipleship Training
We combine ancient truths with modern tools through the following offerings:
1. Practical, tactical and Biblical Self-Defense
Generally designed for military, law enforcement, private security and survivalist, our system emphasizes realistic, pressure-tested techniques that are easy to remember and apply effectively while under duress. A combination of Filipino Martial Arts (Kali, Escrima, Arnis), Tactical Martial Arts, Historical European Martial Arts, other battle-tested and practical self-defense systems comprise our curriculum. Non sport-centric martial arts for the unique physiology and needs of smaller men, women, and young adults. Unarmed, armed, and firearms training are available for all students. We accept students from 4 years old and above. Little Squires (4-7 years old), Junior Knights (8-12 years old0, Young Warriors (13-16 years old) and the ACWA Knights (17 years old and above).
2. UVR 3.0 / CDM Model
UVR 3.0 is a universal decision framework that models violence as a dynamic game, defining clear escalation and de-escalation thresholds so force is applied only when necessary, only as much as required, and only until the threat state changes.”.
3. Christian Theology, apologetics, and ethics-based curriculum
Prepare yourself not just for this world, but for the next. Discover the future that God has prepared for mankind and how we should protect it, ourselves, and our loved ones.
4. Classes offered 7 days a week in Iloilo’s safest and most complete martial arts studio
Students as young as 4 years old will learn to become discipline, respectful, strong, and socially adept with a drive for excellence and self-control. Weekend classes for Little Squires (4-7 years old – HEMA curriculum), Junior Knights (8-12 years old – HEMA and Kali Curriculum), and Young Warriors (13 to 16 years old – Kali Curriculum) are available on Saturdays and Sundays. ACWA Knights (17 years and older – Tactical Combatives and Kali curriculum) are the adult class focused on Tactical and Combative self-defense designed for the street and not the ring.
WHAT IS
SPIRITUAL Fitness?
Our Mission
Why ACWA Exists – Raise a New Generation of Christian Defenders
The world is dark, and many in the church are asleep. ACWA exists to prepare Christians for the battles ahead—spiritually, mentally, and physically. We stand on Ephesians 6:10–18 (The Armor of God) and commit to training disciples who will:
- Protect and train the weak
- Defend truth
- Resist evil
- Advance the Kingdom of Christ
Dr. TJ Cuenca, III
Founder/Chief Instructor
Began training in martial arts in 1976. Ordained Minister, warrior-shepherd-monk, Filipino Martial Arts master instructor (Punong Guro) of Ocho Kantos Kali, edged weapons instructor for elite military operators, private military contractors, professional security, law enforcement, corrections officers, survivalists, professionals and private citizens. Retired dentist, financial advisor, actor/stuntman, public speaker and entrepreneur.
Roger T.
Assistant Instructor / Coach
40+ years experience as a martial arts instructor, professional canine trainer, US Army Green Beret veteran, Chinese martial arts, Emergency Medical Tech, survivalist, and communications expert.
