MANILA – Members of arnis clubs and teams from around the globe are expected to come to Manila when they participate in the 2009 Arnis International Encounter.

According to ArnisPhilippines.com, the “highly prestigious event” will take place on the first week of December.

The Arnis Pederasyong Internasyonal, Inc. (ArPI) / International Arnis Federation (IAF) will hold the event in cooperation with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC).

Prior to the international gathering of arnis clubs and teams, a National Arnis Encounter will be held in November.

The event, which will be hosted by the POC and Arnis Philippines, aims to serve as a talent identification program of the ArPI and IAF.

The medalist of the national encounter will then be qualified to participate in the international encounter the following month.