About Us

Punong Guro Laura Holmes

Punong Guro Laura Holmes (Head Instructor), and Founder of Combat Science in Toronto, has been training and teaching for over 20 years. Her career began in the study of Aikido, the Japanese art of self-defense, and rapidly expanded to include the ‘hand-to-hand’ and weapons systems offered in the Filipino Martial Arts (FMA). Laura specializes in impact and edged weapons, and is trained in various aspects of hand-to-hand combat, including some systems and styles of Arnis that are only taught in the Philippines. In addition to studying extensively with world recognized Masters and Grandmasters in the Philippines and North America, Laura has successfully competed in international events including advanced combat (Sport Escrima) and fighting forms (Anyo).

Punong Guro Holmes’ teaching and training continues to change and grow, challenging not only herself but her students in a positive way. Arnis’ unique style and “completeness” keeps the drive to learn and pursue this extensive martial art at the forefront of her training.

Punong Guro Holmes is an instructor in the FMA, as well as a 4th Dan black belt in Aikido. She regularly conducts self-defense, arnis/kali/escrima workshops and demonstrations across North America for students of all levels and abilities, and is an active member within the National Woman’s Martial Arts Federation (NWMAF), the Association of Women Martial Arts Instructors (AWMAI), the Canadian Aikido Federation (CAF) and the Ontario Aikido Federation (OAF). She is also a certified Reiki Master, and licensed holistic practitioner.

Assistant Instructor JB Ramos

JB Ramos has been studying martial arts for over 10 years. She holds a 1st degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and has a background in Shorin-Ryu Karate. Being a Canadian-born Filipino, JB always wanted to study an art that is indigenous to the Philippines. She has been studying under the tutelage of Punong Guro Holmes since 2003 and has achieved the rank of Assistant Instructor. JB has also had an opportunity to train in the Philippines with various Masters and Grandmasters and has gained knowledge of many systems and styles of Arnis that are taught only in the Philippines.

As a Assistant Instructor, JB finds teaching very rewarding. She is eager to share her knowledge of the FMA with students and encourage them to explore the many aspects offered by this “complete” martial art. Her easy going, energetic and open teaching style allows students to learn at their own pace, while getting fit and having fun.

JB is an active member of the National Women’s Martial Arts Federation (NWMAF). She has competed in several tournaments in Canada and internationally where she successfully won a number of medals.