The International Kajukenbo Association

Our Mission
The Core Values of the Kajukenbo Association: Building a Legacy of Integrity, Knowledge, and Strength
At the heart of the Kajukenbo Association lies an inspiring foundation of core values that transcend the boundaries of martial arts practice. These values guide members in all aspects of their lives, from the dojo to the workplace to their communities. With integrity, knowledge, accountability, respect, trustworthiness, and loyalty as its pillars, Kajukenbo isn’t just about self-defense; it’s about fostering excellence in character and creating a lasting legacy.
The Core Values That Shape a Family
Integrity
Integrity is the soul of Kajukenbo. It means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It asks for honesty in actions, transparency in intentions, and ethical choices in every situation. At Kajukenbo, integrity is more than a virtue; it is the foundation that strengthens the collective trust of the community. Imagine a dojo where every action reflects fairness, fostering a deep sense of responsibility among its members. This commitment to ethical behavior ensures that the association remains a shining example of uprightness, both inside and outside the martial arts sphere.
Knowledge
“Knowledge is power,” the saying goes, and it resonates deeply within the Kajukenbo Association. Here, learning is not confined to mastering techniques; it encompasses understanding the purpose and application of these techniques in real-life scenarios. Whether you’re perfecting a kick or exploring the historical roots of Kajukenbo, there’s an emphasis on absorbing and sharing wisdom. This dedication to lifelong learning equips practitioners with the skills, confidence, and insight necessary to not only defend themselves but also grow as individuals. Every training session becomes an opportunity to refine technical prowess and gain invaluable life lessons.
Accountability
Accountability is about ownership. It is the commitment each member makes to honor their responsibilities, take charge of their actions, and fulfill their obligations to themselves, their peers, and the community. Picture a world where every practitioner strives for consistency and reliability, taking ownership of their decisions and learning from every mistake. This value cultivates personal growth, strengthens bonds of trust within the association, and ensures a disciplined approach to training and life.
Respect
Respect isn’t just a tradition in Kajukenbo; it’s a way of life. Each person, regardless of experience or background, brings something unique and valuable to the community. By honoring these contributions, members create an inclusive and enriching environment where everyone has the space to thrive. Respect extends beyond words; it is reflected in actions, interactions, and shared experiences. It ensures that the dojo is not just a place of learning but also a sanctuary of mutual admiration and understanding.
Trustworthiness
Trustworthiness is the glue that holds the Kajukenbo family together. Built on a foundation of dependability, it encourages members to keep their promises and honor their commitments. This steadfast reliability builds strong, enduring relationships within the association. When members trust one another, it fosters a community of mutual support, where practitioners can grow individually and collectively, knowing they have a system of encouragement and accountability.
Loyalty
Loyalty is more than a bond; it is the heartbeat of Kajukenbo. It fuels members’ dedication to the art, each other, and the association’s enduring traditions. Loyalty ensures that values are not lost with time but are preserved and passed down to future generations. Imagine a community where every practitioner is devoted to the well-being of their peers, standing united to uphold the principles and heritage of Kajukenbo. This unwavering allegiance ensures that the Kajukenbo family grows stronger together.
Bringing Values to Life: The Kajukenbo Strategy
Core values only hold meaning when they are actively applied. The Kajukenbo Association implements several dynamic strategies to bring these principles to life, ensuring they shape not only skilled martial artists but also exceptional individuals.
Education and Training
Every class, seminar, and workshop goes beyond physical techniques. They open a window into understanding how these martial arts values apply to real-world challenges. Imagine stepping into a session where you not only perfect your stance and strike but also are guided to approach life’s complexities with the discipline, courage, and resilience learned in the dojo. Kajukenbo ensures that every touchpoint during training includes conversations about character growth and the meaningful application of core values.
Community Engagement
Kajukenbo extends far beyond the dojo walls, actively engaging with local communities to spread its values and principles. This includes hosting events, workshops, and community outreach programs focused on respect, trustworthiness, and integrity. These initiatives not only strengthen the bond within the association but also impact the broader world. Whether it’s a martial arts demonstration at a community center or a charity drive, members are actively embodying the principles of Kajukenbo for the betterment of all.
Recognition and Rewards
Celebrating achievements is an important aspect of fostering positive behavior. Kajukenbo acknowledges and honors those who exemplify its values through a thoughtful rewards system. Imagine earning praise not only for technical skill but also for the integrity, respect, and loyalty you demonstrate in your actions. This encouragement fuels a culture of excellence, where members strive to embody the core values every single day.
Feedback and Self-Assessment
Growth begins with self-awareness. Through a strong feedback and self-assessment system, Kajukenbo ensures that members regularly evaluate themselves against the core values. Structured guidance helps practitioners align with the association’s principles, focusing on areas for improvement and celebrating successes. This ongoing cycle of reflection and refinement ensures that all members continue to grow in character as well as skill.
A Legacy of Integrity, Knowledge, and Growth
Kajukenbo is more than a martial art; it’s a way of life. Its core values of integrity, knowledge, accountability, respect, trustworthiness, and loyalty create a powerful framework not just for fighting, but for thriving. These values unite practitioners into a family, cultivating strength and character that lasts a lifetime.
Through active implementation strategies—including education, community engagement, recognition, and feedback systems—the Kajukenbo Association sets an unparalleled standard for personal and collective excellence. It’s more than about practicing martial arts; it’s about living with purpose, respect, and an unshakable sense of honor.
Are you ready to become part of the legacy? Step into a Kajukenbo dojo, and discover the art of not just mastering your movements, but mastering your life.
President
Sr. Grand Master Al Dacascos
Founder of Wun Hop Kuen Do, Kajukenbo.

About Al Dacascos
What defines a legacy? For Al Dacascos, it’s an enduring commitment to excellence, a passion for mentorship, and a lifetime of groundbreaking achievements in martial arts and entertainment.
With over four decades of experience as a celebrated Stunt and Fight Choreographer and Producer, Al has left an indelible mark on the global film industry. His work spans iconic projects such as “Kung-fu ‘The Art’”, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3”, and “Showdown in Manila”. His innovative choreography and dedication to authenticity have elevated martial arts on-screen to an art form.
Beyond the silver screen, Al is the President of the International Kajukenbo Association and a respected figure within the martial arts world. A Black Belt Hall of Fame Inductee and Charter Member of the Martial Arts History Museum Hall of Fame, Al Dacascos belongs to an elite group of trailblazers, standing alongside luminaries like Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, and Toshirô Mifune. Notably, he received more votes than several of these legends during his 1999 induction.
But his influence extends further. Al is also a best-selling author, with his book, “Legacy, Through the Eyes of a Warrior,” earning a top spot on Amazon. It encapsulates his philosophy, discipline, and dedication to preserving martial arts history while inspiring future generations.
What fuels Al’s drive? A passion for tradition and teaching. His tireless efforts to mentor the next generation of martial artists exemplify his belief in cultivating skill and character, both in the dojo and beyond.
Despite a lifetime of accolades, Al remains grounded. A devoted family man, he cherishes his time with his children, including actor and martial artist Mark Dacascos, his daughter-in-law Julie Condra, and his grandson Makoa. When he’s not teaching or choreographing, you can find Al immersed in a good book, continuously seeking knowledge as a life-long learner.
His impact speaks volumes, and so do the legends who admire him:
- “Al’s dedication to martial arts is unparalleled. His impact on the industry is undeniable.” – Cynthia Rothrock, Martial Arts Legend
- “A true master and a pioneer. Al Dacascos is a living legend.” – Benny Urquidez, World Champion Kickboxer
- “Al’s legacy is one of inspiration, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to excellence.” – Michael Jai White, Actor and Martial Artist
Al Dacascos doesn’t just practice martial arts; he embodies its spirit, its history, and its future. His story is a testament to unwavering dedication, resilience, and a passion for uplifting others. Through his legacy, he reminds us all to pursue greatness boldly and leave the world better than we found it.

















Follow Grand Master Al Dacascos

Our Team
Board of Directors

Great Grand Master Al Dacascos
President: I.K.A - Founder WHKD

GM Jerry Weldon
Tum Pai

GM Dan Baker
Kenpo Karate

GM Gerald Chavez
Kajukenbo

GGM Al Dela Cruz
Chu'an fa

SGM Ron Lew
The 5th Element

SGM Sixto Ramos
Kenkabo
I.K.A Comissioners
Every Member is represented through our honored Comissioners

Great Grand Master Al Dacascos
Founder of Wun Hop Kuen Do

Grand Master Dan Baker
Kenpo-Karate

Great Grand Master Al Dela Cruz
Ch'uan Fa

Grand Master Jerry Weldon
Tum-Pai

Senior Grand Master Ron Lew
5th Element
Administrators
Professor Sean Harflinger
I.K.A Director & CEO
Great Grand Master AL Dacascos
President: The International Kajukenbo Association.
Master Sonny Pabuaya
Social Media Team, Events and Seminars

Professor Kevin Napoleon
Registration, Accreditation and Background Authentication

THE CHALLENGE IS NOT A SONG AND DANCE: Trespass, Deterrent, and the Hour We Went Rogue
A challenge is a line drawn across a behavior that has already cost something. It names the cost. It withdraws ease. It puts weight back on the person who spent what was not theirs to spend. If the line does not sting, it is not a challenge. It is a suggestion. Suggestions do not deter trespass. They decorate it.

THE FIRST BIRD: A Lesson in Cadence, Agency, and Leadership Before the Light Arrives
Right before the sun rises you will often hear the first lonely bird start to chirp for a solid thirty minutes before anyone else wakes up. A lonely melody in the darkness, only to be received when the light arrives. As if that lonely chirp summoned it.

FLESH INTO IRON, WILL INTO WEATHERED STONE: The Fight Between Ego and Desire and Service and Stewardship
Look at the floor of any school long enough and you will see two arts being practiced in the same hour.
One art is advertised. Stance. Form. Contact. Breath. The body learning to arrive where the mind sent it.
The other art is older and less photographed. It is the argument running under the technique, the argument between the part of a person that wants to be seen and the part of a person that is willing to be used. Ego and desire on one side of the line. Service and stewardship on the other.

IF WE ARE NOT OPEN TO PARTNERSHIPS, WE REMAIN CLOSED TO POSSIBILITIES
A pencil is not interesting until it meets a surface. Held in the air it is only potential with a painted collar. Pressed to the page it becomes a point. Letters leave the wood. Content does not hover above the work like weather. Content is what flies off the moment two resistances agree to touch, graphite and paper, speaker and listener, a form and the eye that will not flatter it. The picture is not a celebration of words. The picture is a physics lesson. Nothing assembles until contact is allowed.

THE CADDY, THE STOOGE, AND THE FOCUSED IDIOT
Look at the photograph long enough and it stops being comedy. Three men on grass cut for people who can afford to miss. One of them is holding the bag. One of them is standing as if the course already agreed with him. One of them is mid-stride with a club and a face that has not yet decided whether this is work or play.

CHANGE AND TRUTH ARE TOUGH PILLS TO SWALLOW: How a bitter pill becomes a working supplement
Change and truth arrive the same way medicine used to arrive — not as a flavor, not as a brand, not as a story you tell at dinner. They arrive as a pill. Dry. Unadorned. Difficult to get past the throat.
