LEKCI History

In 1983, Law Enforcers Karate Club (LEKC) was organized in the heart of Manila with headquarter at Pope Pius Catholic Sports Complex, United Nations Avenue, Manila City, Philippines.  It was founded by retired Western Police District Lieutenant Felix Giovanni R. Guarino, who became its First National President.  Shihan Guarino held this position from 1983 to 2018.  He provided all directives for seminars, trainings, and schedule of competitions. His co-founders and first generations blackbelts, in alphabetical order, are: co-founders-Shihan Efren Gualberto Barros, Sensei Rogelio Sison Baula (Boy Sipang Kabayo), Sensei Diosdado “Dodie” Calderon, Sensei Dante Castillo, Sensei Rolando “Rolly” R. Catoy, Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller, Sensei Robert Santos, Sensei Sammy Tugaoen, and LEKC VP Retired Police Col. Sensei Paul Garcia Tucay. The 1st degree black belts are: Sensei Willie Juanitez, Sensei Nanding Lapiz, Sensei Chito Perez, Sensei Tammy Picate, Sensei Jun Bartolome, and few others.  He trained his blackbelts every day at Pope Pius Catholic Center headquarter. Aside from the founder, Sensei Tucay and Sensei Catoy were responsible in naming this association as Law Enforcers Karate Club. All founders came from the Philippines College of Criminology (PCCr) based in Manila City. The “International” word was added to LEKC and became LEKCi in 1984.  Ten of the founders came from the VilCat Amateur Karate-Judo Association founded by Sensei Tayo. 

 the 1st World Karate Invitational Tournament held in Manila, Philippines on June 19, 1974. He (Presidential Team) along with Sensei Diosdado Calderon (Team A) and Sensei Rogelio Sison (Team B) represented the Philippines as the Presidential contingents. The participating countries were China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, West Germany, United States, Japan, and the Philippines (Teams A & B, Presidential Team, Central Luzon, Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Eastern Visayas, Western Visayas, and Mindanao). 

Shihan Guarino first bout in Judo while in the police service was held in Protacio Del Herald Building under the supervision of the Philippine Amateur Judo Association (PAJA) led by Louie Espiritu and during the time of Brigadier General Narciso Cabrera of WPD. Brig. Gen. Cabrera was the Chief of Police of the Western Police District (Manila Police Department) in 1980, located at the United Nations Avenue, Ermita, Manila. In this bout, Shihan Guarino toppled Police Col. Mar “Bulldog” Reyes in the 1980 overall category Judo friendly competition. Shihan Guarino was the overall category champion in the said competition. WPD Col. Mar Reyes was later became one of the LEKCi advisers along with PMA Col. Samson Tucay and Honorable Judge Alfredo Enriquez, both were the original advisers of the LEKC since 1983.   

Sensei Efren Barros founded the Riyadh, K.S.A. Chapter while Sensei Sammy Lucanas founded the Jeddah, KSA Chapter and the latter was affiliated in the same year.  Riyadh Chapter was deactivated because the king of Riyadh prohibited karate after the death of karate players during the tournament.  The PUP Judo-Karate founded by then LEKC VP Sensei Paul G. Tucay in 1982 was affiliated to LEKC in 1984 and became LEKCi PUP Chapter.  Sensei Tucay is a P.E. Instructor at PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila for Judo Karate.  His assistant instructors are: First President of the Chapter Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr., VP Sensei Carlos Villanueva, Chapter’s Secretary-General Sensei Hercules Cimitara, Sensei Manny Marajas, Sensei Ed Paalisbo, Sensei Frederic “Boyet” Bucao, Sensei Felix Valencia, and Sensei Ramon Lopez.  

LEKCi expanded with the help of active LEKCi students from Pope Pius Headquarters, PUP, Trinity, MLQU, PNP SAF Batch 91, Arellano University, and other chapters.  Sensei Robert Jude Oca founded the MLQU Chapter in 1988 located at the main campus in Quiapo, Manila City. Sensei Evan Otto founded the Trinity College Chapter located at E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City in 1990.  Sensei Rico Oca of the PNP SAF Batch 91 Chapter affiliated this elite group as LEKCi PNP SAF Batch 91 Chapter in 1991.  They had training at Camp Castaneda Training Command, Silang, Cavite (presently Philippine National Police Academy - PNPA) for Police Basic Course.  PNP SAF Batch 91 recruits later transferred to Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, Philippines for militaristic and indoctrination trainings.  Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr. founded the Laguna-Pacita Complex Chapter. Sensei Ramon Lopez founded the Montalban Chapter.  Shihan Efren Barros assumed office on September 2019 as the 2nd LEKCi National President with Sensei Sol Otto as his Vice President. Sensei Sol Otto founded the LEKCi Judo-Karate Group in Baguio City with Sensei Joseph Enteria as his adviser.  Sensei Joseph Enteria is now the P.E. instructor for judo-karate class in PUP, Sta. Mesa.  Sensei Marianito “Manny” Marajas and Bong “Wewe” Lopez founded the Cavite Chapter, while Sensei Adam Mercado founded the Makati Chapter. Sensei Reggie Maristela founded the Batangas Chapter with instructors Shihan Efren Barros.  

After few years, some LEKCi members migrated to other countries like Sensei Rico and Robert Oca (US), Sensei Dina Dela Cruz (US), Sensei Susan De Guzman (US), Sensei Arnold Ramacho (US), Sensei Manny Decena (US), Sensei Randy Pascual (CAN), and Sensei Ramon Lopez (NZ).  Others worked in the Middle East like Sensei Darius Anchovas, and Sensei Lauro Gordula Jr.  But despite the distance, LEKCi key personnel continued to communicate for the future of the new generations. 

The first group of blackbelts are, of course, the founder and President of the Club Shihan Felix Giovanni R. Guarino together with co-founders Shihan Efren G. Barros, Sensei Diosdado “Dodie” Calderon, Sensei Dante Castillo, Sensei Rolando “Rolly” Catoy,  Sensei Rogelio S. Baula, Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller, Sensei Robert Santos, Sensei Sammy Tugaoen, LEKC VP Sensei Paul G. Tucay while the advisers are former Manila Mayor Brigadier General Alfredo Lim, Former Manila Vice Mayor Danny Lacuna, Quezon City Trial Court Judge Enriquez, Police Captain Reynaldo Jaylo, arnis expert Inocencio “Sioc” Glaraga, PNP SAF Brigidaire General Samson Tucay (cousin of Sensei Paul Tucay) and then Manila City Hall Detachment Commander Police Lt. Col. Mar Reyes.  Pope Pius Headquarters’ instructors are Manila Police Felix Giovanni R. Guarino and the rest of the founders and blackbelts. 

The second group of blackbelts are: Sensei Jun Bartolome, Sensei Chito Perez, Sensei John Gomez, Sensei Rudy Leobo, Sensei Ramon Macabuhay, Sensei Carlie Agbulos, Sensei Sammy Lucanas, Sensei Sidney Swarskopt, Sensei Willie Juanitez, Sensei Nanding Lapiz, Sensei Tammy Picate, Sensei Moya, and Sensei Monette Agbulos. 

The third group of blackbelts comes from LEKCi HQs and PUP LEKCi Chapter.  They are Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr., Sensei Manny Marajas, Sensei Hercules Cemitara, Sensei Carlos Villanueva, Sensei Felix Valencia, Sensei Sol Otto, Sensei Boyet Bucao, Sensei Ramon Lopez, Sensei Police Col. Rodney Ramirez (PNPA), Sensei Joseph Enteria (Judo-Karate), and Sensei Ed Paalisbo. Advisors for the PUPians are Reserve Philippines Marines Major Santiago, PUP Professor Apolonio Duque, PUP Professor Joseph Enteria (Judo-Karate), and LEKCi HQs Instructor Paul Tucay, while for LEKCi HQs are Sensei Darius Anchovaz, Sensei Bong Aguado, Sensei Camilo Erezo, Sensei Ergie Cantillep, Sensei Ramon Macabuhay, Sensei Alam Kahil, Sensei Boy Febra, and Sensei Manny Alburo. Other black belts after Sensei Sammy Lucanas of Riyadh/Jeddah Chapter are included in the third batch like Sensei Ponce Estrada, also from Riyadh/Jeddah Chapter, K.S.A. Some are not identified because records were lost. The LEKCi Admin will adjust, add, and update after the confirmation for the third batch.  

The fourth group of blackbelts came from PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila, namely Sensei Rico Oca, Sensei Niel Meciano, Sensei Lauro Gordula Jr., Sensei Eric Simbulan, Sensei Francis Arcilla, Sensei Arnold Ramacho, Sensei Ferdie Decena, Sensei Richard Decena, Sensei Randy Pascual, Sensei Robert Jude Oca, Sensei Evan Otto, Sensei Omar Equiza, Sensei Dina Dela Cruz, and Sensei Susan Mamaril De Guzman.  Primary instructor is Sensei Paul Tucay with other instructors from PUP black belts headed by Assistant Instructor Vicente Boy Aguilar Jr. and from the Pope Pius Headquarters namely: Shihan Felix Giovanni R. Guarino, Sensei Rudy Leobo, and Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller.  

The fifth (5th) group of blackbelts came from the PNP SAF Batch 1991. They are Police Colonel Sensei Anthony Banastao, Sensei Police Colonel Lito Cabamongan, Sensei Joseph A. Dignos, Sensei Francisco B. Bautista, Sensei Joseph Nueva, Sensei Rogelio Pisquiza, Sensei Edwin Cabatbat, Sensei Felix Soria, and Sensei Kerwin Bartolome. All other members of the PNP SAF Batch 1991 and advisers were attested as Honorary Black Belts. The advisers are PNP SAF first 2nd Special Action Battalion Commander General Vidal Querol (PMA), second 2ndSpecial Action Force Battalion Retired Brigadier General, Congressman, and Mayor (in his town) Sir Leopoldo Bataoil (PMA/PNPSAF), Brigadier General Dennis Basngi (PMA/2SAB PNPSAF), Police Brigadier General Rolando Anduyan (PMA/2SAB PNPSAF), Colonel John T. Colinio (PNPA/2SAB PNPSAF), Colonel Ysmael Yu (PMA/2SAB PNPSAF), Colonel Ismael Fernandez (PNPA/2SAB PNPSAF), Colonel Julius Coyme (PNPA/2SAB PNPSAF), and Colonel Eli Depra (PNPA/2SAB PNPSAF) while the instructor is Police Officer I Sensei Rico Oca (PUP/2SAB PNP SAF Chapter). Meanwhile at Trinity College are Sensei Chary Centeno and Sensei Zakurage “Reggie” Maristela. LEKCi Jeddah Sensei Adam Mercado, and Sensei Alex Guanzon Jr., belong to this group, while at PDEA is General Sensei Jigger Juniller. 

The sixth group of blackbelts are from PUP Chapter are Sensei Bong “Wewe” Lopez, Sensei Mini Gutierrez, Sensei Sally Salinas, Sensei Gina Perez, and Sensei Francisco Simbulan. Instructors are Sensei Ramon Lopez, Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr, Sensei Col. Paul G. Tucay, and other blackbelts from HQ LEKCi and PUP chapter.   

Chapter’s History

LEKCi Angat, Bulacan Chapter 

Sensei Felix Valencia founded LEKCi Angat Chapter after he graduated from PUP, Sta. Mesa, Manila. Sensei Paul G. Tucay was his immediate superior at PUP Judo-Karate, now LEKCi PUP Chapter. Sensei Rico Oca will ask the assistance of Sensei Valencia to pursue his pending plan to organize karate players in Sulucan, Angat, Bulacan. 

LEKCi Antioch-Peasant Hill Chapter (CA, USA)

Sensei Rico and Robert Jude Oca founded the Antioch-Concord-Pleasant Hill Chapter, California. Sensei Rico affiliated it to FSKA Milpitas and to LEKCi Headquarters in 2019 under President Shihan Efren Barros who is still holding the position until now. Sensei Robert Jude Oca lead the Antioch area while Sensei Rico Oca lead the Concord-Pleasant Hill area with advisers' US Airforce Captain Noelle Mora and Martial Artist Master Arnoldo Bolanos who is an expert of karate, judo, jiujitsu, self-defense technique, and taekwondo. 

LEKCi Arellano University Chapter

Sensei Randy Pascual and Sensei Manny Decena, both from PUP Chapter, founded LEKCi Arellano University Chapter with instructor Shihan Giovanni Guarino of LEKCi Headquarters.

LEKCi Baguio City (Judo- Karate)

Sensei Sol Otto from PUP Sta Mesa, Manila is based in Baguio City as the founder of LEKCi & Judo Group with Sensei Joseph Enteria as his adviser. Sensei Joseph Enteria is now the PE instructor in PUP, Sta. Mesa for judo-karate class. 

Sol Otto was born on August 25, 1962, in Cebu City. He graduated in 1991 at PUP Sta Mesa, Manila, Philippines with a degree of Bachelor of Physical Education. He entered AFP’s Philippines Constabulary on April 04, 1983, and optionally retired on April 04, 2015, as Police Colonel. He is currently living at Fort Del Pilar, Baguio City.

Same with karate, he started his judo career at 3C Judo Club in Quezon City and Gentleway Judo in Manila City, Philippines in 1976. He was a 2nd Dan in judo, 2nd Dan in old club and a blackbelt in LEKCi karate. His career in judo-karate made him a champion in every tournament he participated. Among them were 1982 Battle of the Judo Championship, Open Weight Category, Brown belt Division; 1983 & 1984 National Judo Championship, Extra Light Weight Division; PICUAA Heavy Weight; Region 4A Karate Invitational Tournament, Open Weight Division; Philippines Judo delegation in 1983 SEA Games in Singapore for Extra Light Weight Division; 1992 Inter Unit NHQ & NSU’s Karate Tournament, Below 80 kgs division; 3 Times Judo represented PNP to Indonesian International Invitational Judo Tournament in 1992, 1993, and 1994; 2007 Inter Zonal PNP Karate Tournament, 80 kgs below; 2007 Inter Unit NHQ & NSU’s PNP Karate Tournament, Below 80 kgs division; and 2012 Inter Unit NHQ & NSU’s PNP Judo Tournament, Heavy Weight Champion. 

LEKCi Barcelona/Sorsogon Chapter (Philippines)

Sensei Rico Oca founded LEKCi Barcelona/Sorsogon Chapter in 1987 and affiliated to FSKA and LEKCi HQs in 2019. It started in 1991 but was temporary stopped because of his SAF training and migration to US. He is still looking for alternate instructors in Barcelona/Sorsogon to continue his unfinish teaching of karate in his hometown. 

LEKCi Batangas Chapter

Sensei Reggie Maristela (Trinity College) founded the Batangas Chapter with instructor Shihan Efren Barros. 

LEKCi Cavite Chapter

Sensei Manny Marajas and Sensei Bong Lopez (TIP Manila) founded the Cavite chapter. Sensei Marajas was a graduate of Bachelor of Science major in Marketing at PUP Sta. Mesa Main Campus. He was one of the instructors in PUP karate from 1984 to 1991 supporting karate students’ officers headed by PUP Chapter President Omar Equiza (1988-1989) and PUP Chapter President Arnold Ramacho (1990-1991), now living in the United States. Sensei Marajas started teaching karate in Anabu 1st, Imus, Cavite in 1995 with 30 students for one year only because, he was instructed by then Police Major Tucay of PACC to drive and bodyguard rescued kidnap victim. 

Sensei Bong Lopez followed in 2000 in a different location in Cavite.

LEKCi Laguna-Pacita Complex Chapter (Philippines)

Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr. founded the Laguna-Pacita Complex Chapter, Boy is from PUP in Sta. Mesa, Manila.

Sensei Boy Aguilar graduated at PUP, Sta. Mesa, Manila with the degree of Bachelor of Accountancy and Law. He was the First President of the LEKC PUP Chapter in 1984 with Sensei Paul G. Tucay as instructor. Chief Instructor Tucay was a part-time judo and karate professor to PUP PE students wherein Sensei Aguilar was his loyal student. Sensei Boy Aguilar devoted himself as a PUP karateka. He was a Kumite & Kata Instructor from 1983 to 1997 and he founded LEKCi Laguna chapter in 1992. He supervised the very first karate tournament in the university wherein Sensei Rico Oca was one of the participants. Sensei Aguilar represented as a coach for Laguna delegation in 1995 and for Philippine National Games in 1996. 

As the first president of this LEKCi Chapter, he also managed to recruit students who became avid fans of karate philosophy. Two of his loyal officers, Sec-Gen Hercules Cemitara and Sgt-At-Arms Marianito “Manny” Marajas did their best in supporting him to maintain the integrity and the rigid training of this karate chapter. He recruited Sensei Rico Oca and became his student. Sensei Oca followed his footstep and continued his legacy after his tenure at the university. Sensei Oca became his successor as the 2nd President of the LEKCi PUP chapter. Sensei Boy Aguilar and his officers defended the club and extremely explained that the teaching of karate was a guaranteed tool to survive. This defense was done under the scrutiny of the student body in PUP’s Office of the Student Affairs. 

Rico Oca with Boy Aguilar as the assistant chief instructor to Sensei Paul Tucay to PUP Sta. Mesa.   

LEKCi Makati City Chapter

Sensei Adam Mercado founded the Makati Chapter. He came from LEKCi Jeddah Chapter. He worked in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as an optometrist. He was a board passer batch 1997, United Arab Emirates (U.A.E) board passer in 1999 and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) board passer in 2005. He also passed the Singapore Opticianry Course in 2007. He is a licensed optometrist in the Philippines. 

In 1990 to 1992 in Riverstate (Nigeria), Sensei Mercado was into taekwondo. From 1993 to 1997 at De Ocampo Memorial College Varsity, he was into cobra karate do. He started his karate at LEKCi Jeddah Chapter from 2004 to 2006 while at LEKCi Makati Chapter in 2017. His dojo is located at Big Shift Studio (Makati City).

Sensei Mercado’s karate achievement: 

(1) 3rd place kata in Jeddah, 

(2) 2nd place kata in Jeddah, and 

(3) another 2nd place kata in Jeddah.

LEKCi Manuel Luis Quezon University (MLQU) Chapter, Quiapo, Manila, Philippines.

LEKCi expanded with the help of active LEKCi HQs, PUP, Trinity, Riyadh/Jeddah and Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU) students (1984 to present). Sensei Robert Jude Oca founded the MLQU Chapter in 1988 located at the main campus in Quiapo, Manila City with the rank of brownbelt. Sensei Robert Oca started his early training at PUP LEKCi while he was attending school at MLQU. He was supported by the blackbelts from PUP Chapter and Pope Pius HQs for instructions. He was promoted to blackbelt in 1995 and started teaching his students at MLQU. He organized his first set of officers in the same year. They were Reggie and Marissa. Marissa became a lieutenant in the police service.

LEKCi Meycauayan Chapter

Sensei Frederick “Eric” Simbulan and his brother, Francisco Simbulan Jr., are the founder of LEKCi Meycauayan Chapter. They continue dedicating themselves in supporting young generations in the field of martial arts. Sensei Frederick “Eric” Simbulan was a former Philippine Army who represented the force for several successful tournaments. His awards were mostly gold medals both in karate and taekwondo. He was responsible in founding taekwondo. He was a graduate of Electronic Communication Engineering at PUP Manila in 1994 and of Sports Medicine (Master of Arts in Physical Education) at the University of the Philippines, Los Banos Campus, Laguna. 

Sensei Frederic “Eric” Simbulan’s individual tournament achievements were: Gold Medal, 2013 - Philippine Science Invitational Championship; Gold Medal, 2012 - Lucena City Invitational Taekwondo Championship; Gold Medal, 2011 - Catanauan Quezon Invitational Championship; Silver Medal, 2009 – 2010 Inter Tbb, Tbs, Ptc National Championship; Silver Medal, 2001 - 2nd Manila Open Taekwondo Championships; Gold Medal, 1996 to 2000 - AFP-PNP OLYMPICS (Taekwondo), Makati City, Philippines; Silver Medal, 2000 to 2001 - 1st Manila Open Taekwondo Championships; Bronze Medal, 1998 – CPJ, Philippines; Silver Medal, April 1998 - 3rd Philippine National Games, Cebu City, Philippines; Gold Medal, 1997 - 2nd Aklan Invitational Taekwondo Championship, Philippines; Gold Medal, 1997 - 1st Bataan Governor’s Cup, Philippines; Gold Medal, 1997 - 1st Mayor Hagedorn’s Cup Taekwondo Championship, Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines; Gold Medal, 1997 - 1st Naga Regional Competition, Camarines Sur, Philippines; Gold Medal, 1996 - Milo National Inter-School Competition; Gold Medal, 1996 - Milo New Face of the Year; Silver Medal, 1995 - 1st Biñan, Laguna Taekwondo Championship; Silver Medal, 1995 - 1st Aklan National Invitational Taekwondo Championship; Bronze Medal, 1995 - 18th National Taekwondo Competition; Bronze Medal (1995)/ Bronze Medal (1994) CPJ - Philippine Team Selection; Bronze Medal, 1993 - State Colleges Athletic Association (SCUAA), Taekwondo; Gold Medal, 1993 - Law Enforcers Karate Club International Inter-Chapter, Pope Pius Catholic Center, United Nations Ave., Ermita, Manila, Philippines; Champion, 1993 - Martial Arts of the Philippines Invitational Tournaments Team Competition, Philippines; Champion, 1992 - Pure Energy Karate Association; 2nd place, 1992 - Philippine Union Martial Arts Invitational Tournaments Individual (freestyle); and 2nd place, 1992 - 2nd Vice Mayor’s Cup Team Competition, Manila, Philippines. 

His team’s accomplishments were: Overall Champion, 1997-2006 SPCBA Regional PRISSA, Philippines; Overall Champion, 2002 – UPLB Regional SCUAA, Philippines; 1 Silver,1 Bronze, National CHED Palaro, Philippines; 1 Gold, 2 Silver Overall Women’s Team, & Men’s Team, 2005 - UPLB Regional SCUAA, Philippines; 2 Gold, 4 Silver – LSPU Regional SCUAA, Philippines; 1 Silver, 1 Bronze, 2010 - National SCUAA, Philippines; 2 Gold, 3 Silver, 2011 - Regional SCUAA, Philippines; 2 Silver, 2012 - National SCUAA, Philippines; 1 Gold, 5 Silver, 2013 - Regional SCUAA, Philippines; 1 Gold, 3 Silver, Regional SCUAA, Philippines; and 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 2013 – UPLB Regional SCUAA, Philippines.   

Sensei Eric Simbulan also passed the Police Officer Entrance Examination on September 29, 1997 and the Civil Service Commission with a rating of 83.80% conducted in Quezon City with Seq #2879.

Sensei Francisco Simbulan Jr. was a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology at the Manila Central University (MCU) in 1996. He worked as Medical Representative for ten years. He is now working as a freelance Dental Representative in Manila, Philippines.

LEKCi Montalban Chapter (Philippines)

Sensei Ramon Lopez from PUP Sta Mesa, Manila founded the Montalban Chapter.    

LEKCi PEDEA

Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller instructed numerous schools and communities including PEDEA Operatives under the banner of LEKCi while teaching at LEKCi HQs Pius. 

Sensei Boyet was born on July 9, 1961 from Filipino parents in Manila City, Philippines. He is a Roman Catholic devotee. He finished BS Criminology on October 20, 1992 at the Philippine College of Criminology in Manila. He also took up Specialization in Physical Education and Sports at Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, National College of Physical Education, Inc. on May 28, 2002. He is a devoted PE teacher and trainer. 

Sensei Boyet Juniller coached and trained PEDEA Operatives as Chief Instructor. He is a P.E. teacher, volleyball, and martial arts instructor at St. Francis of Assisi College System, Bayanan, Bacoor, Cavite. He served the same and as volleyball and basketball coach at St. Alphonsus Liguori Integrated School, Molino, Bacoor, Cavite. He is a martial arts instructor at Divine Light Academy, Molino, Cavite; St. Benedict Academy, Bacoor, Cavite; St. Joseph College, E. Rodriguez, Quezon City; St. Assex Academy, Sta Rosa, Laguna; Angelicum School, Quezon City; Lourdes School, Retiro, Quezon City; Pope Pius Gym, United Nation Avenue, Metro Manila; and Saint Anne Academy, Santa Ana, Manila, City, Philippines.

Sensei Boyet was a karate champion during VILCAT Invitational Karate Tournament on November 1983; 1984 Youth Karate Tournament; 1st LEKC National Championship, Blackbelt Division on October 30, 1988; AJUCA Martial Arts Association Championship on May 27, 1994; 1st NCR Battle of the Champion on September 3, 1995; 2nd Vice Mayor Cup Championship; 1st MASPHIL Karate Championship on December 8, 1988; VILCAT Karate Championship (Team Sparring) on November 1999. He was a 1st placer during the Siete Pares Karate Tournament on April 25, 1982 and during the SADIWA Karate Championship while he was a 2nd Placer during the 1st Field Force Karate Tournament and during the Clash of the RP Karate Championship on January 24, 1984. 

LEKCi PNP SAF Batch 91 Chapter (Philippines)

Sensei Rico Nicolas Oca of the PNP SAF Batch 91 affiliated this elite group to LEKC as LEKCi PNP SAF Batch 91 Chapter in 1991 during the height of the training as PNP SAF Recruit at the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) formerly Camp Castaneda Training Command (TRACOM), Silang, Cavite for Police Basic Course (PBC). Later, they transferred to Fort Bonifacio, Makati City, Philippines for militaristic and soldier’s indoctrination training. Sensei Rico Oca graduated at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Sta. Mesa, Manila with a degree of Bachelor of Accountancy and Law (BAL). He was not able to finish his law schooling at the Far Eastern University (FEU), Morayta, Manila because he migrated to the United States. He joined the United States Army Airborne in 1999 as a Paratrooper. He tried to affiliate LEKCi to the Funakoshi Shotokan Karate Association (FSKA) in 2002 with the help of FSKA Executive Secretary Sensei Jan Homer. At that time, FSKA was headed by Kancho Kenneth Funakoshi, a descendant of the great Master Gitchin Funakoshi of Japanese Shotokan. But the affiliation happened only in 2019 under Shihan Kyle Funakoshi, son of Kancho Kenneth Funakoshi who continued Kancho’s FSKA Legacy, because of the numerous assignments of Sensei Oca in the US Army Airborne. Aside from the degree he earned in the Philippines, Sensei Rico Oca graduated in different fields of studies namely: Master of Business Administration (University of Phoenix, MBA 2011), Master of Science in Accounting (University of Phoenix, MSA 2012), Paralegal Certificate Program (John F. Kennedy University, Paralegal 2018), Bachelor in Arts in Legal Studies or Preparatory Law in the Philippines (John F. Kennedy University, BA LS 2019), Master of Science in Administrations and Advanced Global Security (University of Phoenix (still in school). He founded LEKCi USA (CA) Chapter and affiliated his owned  SROFG Karate Club International in 1991. 

LEKCi Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Chapter, Sta. Mesa, Manila, Philippines.

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Judo-Karate team is founded by Former LEKC Vice President Sensei Paul G. Tucay was affiliated to LEKC in 1984 and became LEKC PUP Chapter. He is a P.E. Instructor at PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila for judo-karate. His assistant instructors are: Sensei Vicente “Boy” Aguilar Jr who was the First President of the PUP LEKCi Chapter, Chapter VP Carlos Villanueva, Sgt-at-Arms Sensei Manny Marajas, Treasurers Bernard Quintin, and Ramon Lopez, and Secretary General Sensei Hercules Cemitara. Alternate Assistant Instructors for karate are Sensei Ed Paalisbo and Sensei Felix Valencia (both from PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila) while for judo are Sensei Sol Solleza Otto and Professor Sensei Joseph Enteria (both from PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila). 

LEKCi Pope Pius Headquarters (Manila, Philippines).

Shihan Giovanni Guarino’s co-founders and first/second generation blackbelts, in alphabetical orders, are: Shihan Efren Barros, Sensei Jun Bartolome, Sensei Rogelio Sison Baula (Boy Sipang Kabayo), Sensei Dodie Calderon, Sensei Dante Castillo, Sensei Rolly Catoy, Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller, Sensei Willie Juanitez, Sensei Nanding Lapiz, Sensei Chito Perez, Sensei Tammy Picate, Sensei Robert Santos, Sensei Sammy Tugaoen, Retired Police Col. Sensei Paul G. Tucay.  Shihan Guarino trained his blackbelts in the first headquarters located at Pope Pius Catholic Center Basketball Gymnasium, Ermita, Manila City. LEKC VP Sensei Tucay and Former Manila Police Officer Sensei Catoy, together with Shihan Guarino, named this association as Law Enforcers Karate Club (LEKC) in 1983.  Sensei Catoy, drafted the first fist of LEKC now LEKCi for member’s used until Sensei Rico Oca revised the logo fist patterned with his own fist in 2018. 

LEKCi Pulilan Chapter, Pulilan, Bulacan, Philippines.

Sensei Ruben Nacion founded LEKCi Pulilan, Bulacan Chapter. Being an old timer veteran from PCCr Manila, he was known to then PCCr students and LEKCi founders like Shihan Guarino, Sensei Tucay and Shihan Barros.

LEKCi Riyadh/Jeddah Chapter (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)

Sensei Efren Barros and Sammy Lucanas founded LEKCi Riyadh/Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Chapter.  LEKCi Riyadh Chapter was affiliated in the same year.  In 1989, Shihan Efren Barros’ brother Sensei Romeo Barros replaced Shihan Efren of his command as an instructor because Shihan Efren went back to the Philippines for vacation and was transferred to Jeddah. Unluckily, LEKCi Riyadh Chapter was deactivated because the king of Riyadh prohibited karate after the death of karate players during the tournament.  Sensei Sammy Lucanas died and Sensei Alex Guanzon Jr., being the most senior instructor, took over. He is responsible now in training the LEKCi Riyadh/Jeddah Chapter. 

Shihan Efren Barros finished BS Civil Engineering at the Lyceum of the Philippines University in 1984. He completed curriculum subject in Master of Physical Education and Sports at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila in summer of 1998. He worked as a Recreation Supervisor and Gym Team Leader at National Guard Hospital Recreation and Sports Center for 17 years from 2000-2017 in Saudi Arabia. He was a Sports and Fitness instructor as well as martial arts coach and instructor in Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar) since 1984 to 2000. He started karate in 1971, when he was 11 years old, was promoted to blackbelt and became an instructor at the age of 14 in VILCAT Amateur Judo-Karate Association until 1983. He won his 1st blackbelt individual champion trophy on September 26, 1976 in the National VILCAT Karate Tourney, became 2nd champion on September 15, 1977 and won the 3rd championship with a Perpetual Trophy on September 17, 1978. He was the only VILCAT instructor to win the championship three years in a row and defeated the Republic of the Philippines National Champion Benjie Beran. 

First batch blackbelts of Riyadh/Jeddah chapter are Shihan Efren Barros (5th Dan), Sensei Alex Guanzon Jr. (1stDan), Sensei Ponce Estrada (1st Dan) and Sensei Sammy Lucanas (2ndDan). 

Second batch blackbelts are Ric Esguerra (1st Dan), Albert Cagaon (1st Dan), Adrian Timog-Timog (1stDan), James Mamaril (1st Dan), Rommel T. Lagasca (1st Dan), Froilan V. Panlilio (1st Dan), Rodrigo M. Manalo (1st Dan), Filipino J. Laudato (1st Dan), Alexander Salvador (1st Dan), Edwin Evangelista (plain blackbelt), Nazario B. Esquiera (plain blackbelt) and Hans Kuhlman (plain blackbelt). 

Third batch blackbelts are Alfredo Abayan, Sammy Mohammad, Hisham Baravi, Sainodin Acub, Romeo P. Villanueva, Rufino M. Orbiso Jr., Samin Hadji Datu, Rudolph H. Estepa, Dica Manubac, Joel Moises, Kokila Kumara and Sammy Cabanilla. Fourth batch blackbeltsare Eduardo Salvedia, Abdullah Acub, Rino Madayag, Vic Garcia, Artemio Sagun, Gercy Mascarado, Maher Baravi and Zahi Krimi. Fifth batch blackbelts are Alaine A. Bautista, Cesar C. Meneses, Izraphil Acub, Jalal M. Dimapilis, Celso S. Basilam, Melvin B. Grajo, Alinader A. Ahadji Datu, Rene Naluz and Raymond Grimaldo.  

LEKCi Spring Lake, North Carolina Chapter (USA)

Sensei Rico Oca founded this chapter while attending militaristic training at Fort Bragg, NC in 2000. LEKCi North Carolina Chapter Gym/Dojo is the projected headquarter at the east coast. Sensei Rico is looking for instructor to fill the Carolina’s groups of karateka. 

LEKCi Trinity College Chapter (Philippines)

Sensei Evan Solleza Otto was born in Cagayan De Oro and grew up in Quezon City. He is the adviser of LEKCI Trinity Chapter.  He started martial arts at the age of 9, following the footstep of his brother/idol Sol Otto who started karate at the age of 11. Their club was called Banzai, under the supervision of PUMA. Evan had his first silver medal in judo in the National Age Group Competition. He left karate and judo for a while and entered college in 1983. He majored Physical Education at PUP. 

Sensei Evan Otto, Sensei Chary Centeno, and Sensei Zakurage "Reggie" Maristela founded the Trinity College (TC) Chapter located at E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City in 1990. Sensei Evan Otto is also the chief instructor of LEKCi Trinity chapter at that time. Sensei Centeno and Sensei Maristela are his assistant instructors for training.  The set of officers of LEKCi Trinity chapter were President Francis Lardizabal, Vice President Reggie Maristela, Secretary-General Gina, Auditor Stephen Torres, Treasurer Shiela Matolo, Public Relations Officer Joseph Vega and Sergeant-at-Arms Charry Centeno and Dale Garcia. In 2017, Sensei Evan Otto founded also the Pencak Silat and affiliated it to LEKCi as a group representing the LEKCi in any Pencak Silat tournaments or events.

LEKCi GROUP / TEAM

LEKCi Arnis Group

This group is the representative of LEKCi for any Arnis competition headed by Master Inocencio “Sioc” Glaraga. He is the Adviser of LEKCi since 1982 who trains the future LEKCi Arnis Group.  Upon his untimely death, Guro Roberto Trinidad replaced Master Glaraga. 

LEKCi – Haidong Gumdo Group

This group founded by karate-taekwondo expert Sensei Eric Simbulan. Sensei Eric Simbulan came from LEKCi PUP Chapter, Sta. Mesa, Manila. 

Haidong Gumdo is a Korean sword Martial art for all ages (men and women). This is a fast-growing Martial art in the United States and in the Philippines, but it was started in South Korea. This is like the Japanese Samurai Sword. Gumdo is also known as Kumdo, or Geomdo. These words in a Korean language meaning as “sword art.” In Japanese, they call it “Kendo.”

Gummu in English translation is a Korean sword dance. 

LEKCi Judo Group

This group was affiliated to LEKCi in 2019 under the term of the 2nd LEKCi National President Shihan Efren G. Barros. This is headed and founded by Sensei Sol Solleza Otto. His adviser is Sensei Joseph Enteria of PUP Judo-Karate chapter. They are both expert in Judo and Karate.

LEKCi Jujuitsu Group

Founded by Sensei Rico Nicolas Oca and headed by Master Arnoldo Bolanos of the Central Americas who is expert in karate, judo, jiujitsu, self-defense, and taekwondo. Master Bolanos is the adviser of LEKCi Antioch-Concord- Pleasant Hill Chapter, California, USA.

LEKCi Kickboxing Group (Muay Thai)

Headed and founded by one of the LEKCi founders Sensei Rolando “Rolly” R. Catoy. LEKCi Kickboxing/Muay Thai was affiliated with LEKCi under the term of the 2nd LEKCi National President Shihan Efren G. Barros of Manila, Philippines Headquarters in 2019.  

LEKCi Pencak Silat Group

Headed by the Founder Sensei Evan Otto. Sensei Evan Otto also came from LEKCi PUP Chapter and becomes HQs personnel. This group is responsible for any Penchak Silat tournament or competition as representation of the LEKCi. This group is affiliated since 2017 under the term of the 1st LEKCI National President Shihan Felix Giovanni R. Guarino. 

LEKCi Taekwondo Group

The Group is headed by Sensei Eric Simbulan. Sensei Eric Simbulan came from LEKCi PUP Chapter as a Shotokan fighter. His brother, Sensei Francisco Simbulan Jr., is an instructor of LEKCi Meycauayan Chapter.  Simbulan brothers were both from LEKCi PUP Chapter, Sta. Mesa, Manila. 

Despite of the differences and unknown whereabouts, LEKCi’s key personnel continue communicating to train karate and other field of martial arts for the future of the new and young generations. 

LEKCi members who migrated to other countries were Sensei Rico & Robert Oca (United States), Dina Dela Cruz (United States), Susan De Guzman (United States), Arnold Torres Ramacho (United States), Richard & Manny Decena (United States), Randy Pascual (Canada), Sensei Primo Deato (Canada) and Ramon Lopez (New Zealand). Others flew to the Middle East for a job like Sensei Darius Anchuvas (HQ Pius), Sensei Lauro Gordula Jr., (PUP Sta. Mesa, Manila) and other Jeddah/Riyadh chapter’s karatika.

Blackbelts Ranking (Grouping)

First Group

The LEKC HQs first (1st) group of Blackbelts are, of course, the president of the club Shihan Giovanni Guarino, Efren Barros, Dodie Calderon, Dante Castillo, Rolando “Rolly” Catoy, Willie Juanitez, Nanding Lapiz, Tammy Picate, Robert Santos, Rogelio “Boy Sipang Kabayo” Sison Baula, Sammy Tugaoen.  The advisers are former Manila Vice Mayor Danny Lacuna, Quezon City Trial Court Judge Alfredo Enriquez, Retired Police Brig. Gen. Samson Ramos Tucay, Ph.D. (PMA ‘78), Police Captain Reynaldo Jaylo, Arnis expert Inocencio “Sioc” Glaraga, former Manila City Hall Detachment Commander Police Lt. Col. Mar Reyes, and former Mayor/Police Brig. Gen. Alfredo Lim.  The instructors are Manila Police Giovanni Guarino and the rest of the co-founders and blackbelts. 

Second Group

The second (2nd) group of blackbelts from LEKCi HQs are: Jun Bartolome, Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller, Chito Perez, John Gomez, Ergie Cantilep, Rudy Leobo, Ramon Macabuhay, Carlie Agbulos, Sammy Lucanas, and Monette Agbulos. 

Third Group

The third (3rd) group of blackbelts who came from LEKCi HQs and PUP Chapters are Vicente “Boy” Aguilar, Manny Marajas, Carlos Villanueva, Felix Valencia, Sol Otto, Frederico “Boyet” Bucao, Ramon Lopez, Rodney Ramirez (PNPA, deceased), Hercules Cemitara and Ed Paalisbo.  Advisors for the PUPians are Reserve Philippines Marines Major Santiago, PUP Prof. Apolonio Duque, and LEKCi HQs Instructor Paul Tucay while for LEKCi HQs are Sensei Darius Anchuvas, Sensei Bong Aguado, Sensei Camilo, and Sensei Manny.  Some were not identified because records were lost.  Other blackbelts after Sensei Sammy Lucanas are included in this batch like Sensei Ponciano Estrada.

LEKCi Admin will adjust, update, and will add more after the confirmation. 

Fourth Group

The fourth (4th) group of blackbelts came from PUPI Chapter namely: Sensei Rico Oca, Sensei Niel Meciano, Sensei Lauro Gordula Jr., Sensei Francis Arcilla, Sensei Ferdie Decena, Sensei Richard Decena, Sensei Randy Pascual, Evan Otto, Omar Equiza, Dina Dela Cruz, Susan De Guzman, Primo Deato, and Albert Gatan.  Primary instructor is Paul Tucay.  Other instructors are PUP blackbelt Assistant Instructor Boy Aguilar and from the HQs namely Shihan Giovanni Guarino, Sensei Rudy Leobo, and Sensei Rizalino “Boyet” Juniller. 

Fifth Group

The fifth (5th) group of blackbelts are honorary from the PNP SAF Class 1991. They are Police Colonel Sensei Anthony Banastao, Sensei Felix Soria, Sensei Joseph Nueva, Sensei Francisco B. Bautista, Sensei Joseph A. Dignos, Police Col. Sensei Lito Cabamongan, Sensei Edwin Cabatbat, Sensei Rogelio Pisquiza,  and Sensei Kerwin Bartolome. The advisors are PNP SAF General Vidal Querol (PMA), Retired Brigadier General, Congressman, and Mayor in his town Sir Leopoldo Bataoil (PMA/PNPSAF), Brigadier General Dennis Basngi (PMA/PNPSAF), Police Brigadier General Rolando Anduyan (PMA/PNPSAF), Colonel John T. Colinio (PNPA/PNPSAF), Colonel Ysmael Yu (PMA/PNPSAF), Colonel Ismael Fernandez (PNPA/PNPSAF, deceased), Colonel Julius Coyme (PNPA/PNPSAF) and Colonel Eli Depra (PNPA/PNPSAF) while the instructor is Police Officer I Sensei Rico Oca (PUP/PNP SAF Chapter). From MLQU - Sensei Robert Jude Oca.

Sixth Group

The sixth (6th) group of blackbelts are from PUP - Arnold Ramacho, and Eric Simbulan; from Trinity College - Sensei Chary Centeno and Sensei Zakurage Maristela (deceased); from TIP/Cavite Chapter - Sensei Bong Lopez; and from PNP SAF Chapters. Instructors are Sensei Paul Tucay, Sensei Ramon Lopez, Sensei Vicente Boy Aguilar, and other blackbelts from LEKCi HQ. LEKCi Jeddah Chapter’s Sensei Adam Mercado and Sensei Alex Guanzon Jr. belong to this group. 

Seventh Group

The Seventh (7th) group of blackbelts are Mini Gutierrez, Sally Salinas, Gina Perez, Rosalyn Navarroand, Francisco Simbulan from LEKCi PUP Chapter. 

NOTE: 

To LEKCi seniors/juniors or blackbelts/instructors, please inform me if there is a mistake in our history or if I forgot something that you know is important. If you have any additional to your information such as achievements, awards, -schooling, diploma, pictures, dojos videos, dojos training schedule and others, please do not hesitate to email (roca@email.jfku.edu) for correction. If you want to correct any credentials, please do not hesitate to email (roca@email.jfku.edu) for correction. If you want to correct any credentials, please send supporting paper/document as evidence or proof.