09/28/2026
The Filipino martial arts community has lost another of its icons with the passing of Grand Tuhon Leo Gaje this past weekend.
I trained with him only a handful of times, but I remember his energy, his dynamic presence, and the kindness he always showed me. I cannot speak to his day-to-day life or claim the closeness that others shared with him. I can speak to the impression he left on me and the legacy he leaves behind.
A leader’s legacy lives in the people prepared to carry the art forward. Through his lifetime of work, Grand Tuhon helped shape Pekiti-Tirsia and develop generations of practitioners who will now shoulder that responsibility. His absence will be deeply felt, but his teachings will continue through their hands, their students, and their dedication.
He was one of the remaining figures of an era we are slowly losing. With each passing, we lose another living connection to our history—to experiences and lessons that can never be fully captured in a book or recording.
To my friend Jade, his daughter, to his family, and to his students and everyone whose life he touched: my heart is with you.
Having lost my teacher, Remy Presas, and later his brothers Ernesto and Roberto, I know something of the grief that follows the loss of someone who helped shape your path. There is no easy way through it, and few words that can ease it.
If you need anything, or simply need someone to listen, please do not hesitate to call.
Rest in peace, Grand Tuhon.
Respectfully, Datu Tim Hartman
