SGM Henry Mandac
Henry Mandac Palama Settlement, HI 1950s
INFO
Name: Henry Mandac
Title: SENIOR GrandMaster
Rank: 9Th Degree by SIJO Emperado
System: Kajukenbo
Method: Emperado Method
Style: Hardstyle, Kenpo
School: Mandac Kajukenbo
LIVED: 1939-2023
TRAINED: 1955-2023
INSTRUCTOR: Sijo Emperado
Lineage: EmpErado > Henry Mandac
AFFILIATIONS: KSDI
SGM Henry Mandac was a first generation student at Palama Settlement in Hawaii. He was a brother in arms to Sijo and Joe Emperado and cousin to GGM Aleju Reyes and GGM Sid Asuncion. Henry was instrumental in helping GGM Aleju Reyes (the official Kajukenbo secretary) to document the “Original Knowledge” in written form. The two cousins spent many hours together as Henry would go through the techniques, Aleju would write them down. This would become the only complete written record of the Emperado’s original Method.
Mandac Kajukenbo
Henry Mandac Memorial Patch
Henry Mandac, Frank Ordanez, Charles Lakalo, Palama Settlement cir 1950
History
Born on Kauai, Hawaii, on November 1st, 1939, Henry Mandac was the youngest of five children. Raised by hardworking parents who migrated from the Philippines, Henry learned the values of perseverance and dedication from a young age. His summers spent with the Asuncion boys kindled his love for martial arts.
Henry's journey in martial arts began at the renowned Palama Settlement, where he was invited by Joe Emperado to train at the age of 16. This marked the inception of his lifelong journey with Kajukenbo. Under the tutelage of Sijo Emperado, Henry thrived, and his dedication to the art led him to earn his black belt in Kenpo Karate in 1960.
Henry's accomplishments extended beyond the realm of martial arts. While serving as a police officer, he demonstrated his exceptional abilities and rose to the position of detective. Alongside his career, Henry pursued his passion for learning, obtaining a college degree in psychology. His insatiable thirst for knowledge led him to study Japanese language, culture, and philosophy, nurturing a strong mind and deepening his understanding of the world.
Henry's impact was not limited to his professional endeavors. As a humble and loyal student of Sijo Emperado, he cared for his mentor until his passing, providing unwavering support and assistance. Henry's dedication to preserving the roots of Kajukenbo led him to collaborate with his cousins Aleju Reyes and Sid Asuncion, as well as Ben Kekumu and Charlie Lakalo, documenting the original hard style of the martial art.
Within the martial arts community, Henry's influence was profound. He trained alongside first-generation Kajukenbo students, sharing his knowledge and experiences with others. He guided his son Clyde in the art of Kajukenbo, ensuring the transmission of his passion to future generations.
Henry Mandac embodied humility, respect, and kindness. He never sought personal recognition or privilege, focusing instead on his family and fellow human beings. Henry's circle of friends extended far and wide. From his lifelong friendship with Al Dela Cruz to his philosophical discussions with Al Dacoscos, he shared profound connections that enriched his life and the lives of those around him.
Henry Mandac dedicated an astounding 67 years to the study and practice of Kajukenbo. His unyielding commitment to his craft, along with his humble and kind-hearted nature, inspired countless individuals. Through his unwavering loyalty to Sijo Emperado, his teaching of his son Clyde, and his impact on the Kajukenbo community, Henry's legacy lives on.
HIGHLIGHTS
1960 Received his Black Belt from Sijo Emperado.
BLACKBELTS
Clyde Mandac
