Grandmaster John Paul Gomez subdued International Master Joel Pimentel yesterday to grab the solo lead in the Battle of Grandmasters Open division at Philippines Commission Athletes Dining Hall.
Gomez prevailed after 24 moves of the Slav Defense and raised his total to 15.0 points, a point ahead of GM Eugene Torre, who drew with GM Rogelio Barcenilla after 31 moves of an English Opening.
Stopped by GM Darwin Laylo in the sixth round, Woman International Master Janelle Frayna rebounded by besting IM Jan Emmanuel Garcia in 42 moves of an English Opening.
Frayna climbed to 13.5 points in the company of Garcia. Trailing them at 12.0 points was IM Paulo Bersamina, who bowed to GM Joey Antonio (9.0).
Christy Bernales kept top spot in the women’s division following her win over Jean Enriquez. Bernales rose to 16.5 points, towing WFM Cherry Mejia with 15 and WIM Catherine Perena with 13.5. Roy Luarca