- Mantas Daga is the combination of the words "Mantas" and "Daga." Mantas is the name for those who are the most resourceful and possessing of survival abilities. Mantas are the tribal chieftans and blade warriors of a Filipino clan. Daga is the word for the blade used by the Mantas. Combined, the phrase Mantas Daga refers not to the practitioner or even the art, but rather the blade itself.
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The history of the Philippines, prior to the arrival of the Spanish colonists, was predominated by indigenous groups, such as the Negritos and seafaring groups, such as the Austronesians. Earlier times in the Philippines is believed to be a time of conflict and strife between these two groups. The Negritos used spears and short bows for hunting, but did not use bladed weapons until they were introduced by other migrating cultures. Conflict with these cultures led to the development of Mantas Daga.
- Knives are unusual weapons that are amazingly common, yet very lethal. Because of this, a knife assault can occur almost anywhere and knives are also weapons of self-defense. Firearms and other weapons can be outlawed, but it would be impractical to outlaw knives. Those who are trained to defend against other weapons as well as unarmed tactics, might have a difficult time defending against knives because the simplicity of knives allow knife users to use the blade in a variety of deadly ways.
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Filipino knives come in three varieties. The Full Tang Blade is the most simplistic, with only one part of a blade and one handle. The folding knife is a weapon that can be compacted and concealed. There are also a variety of special knives like credit card knives. Concealable knives seem like the best choice for a knife. Folding knives are very concealable, but they can be accidentally folded on the knife-wielder's hand. A Mantas Daga practitioner can buy a sheave for his knife if concealing it is a concern.
- Experts of Mantas Daga recommend that a person use the knife with as much lethality as possible. A Mantas Daga practitioner should not be afraid to kill an assailant who would eagerly kill him. When wielding the knife, the thumb should be placed on the blunt part of the knife to prevent the knife from slipping and cutting the Mantas. The Mantas should be ready to move easily and dodge knife attacks. Movement is made easier by getting into a stance with one foot in front of the other foot. The back foot should have the heel off the ground. The arm should be kept loose when using a knife, with only the hand exerting any power to make sure that the knife does not slip. The Mantas should focus on attacking the joints and vital organs of the assailant. This should not be done unless the Mantas's life is in danger, and if slashing the muscles and joints does not stop the attacker.
