UE’s Mariano rules 8th Leviste chessfest

MANILA, Philippines—Nelson Mariano III finished with 5.5 points after six rounds to rule the college division of the 8th Dr. Jose Leviste Sr. Chess Festival held recently at the Ateneo Grade School Cafeteria.

Mariano, the top board player of the University of the East, edged Roldan Oriendo of Polytechnic University of the Philippines and Narquingel Reyes of College of St. Benilde, who placed second and third, respectively, with 5.0 points each.

In the high school division, Paulo Cristobal of San Sebastian College emerged victorious with a total of 5.5 points after drawing his last match with second placer Melwyn Baltazar of Calderon High School.

Bagging third place was Carlo Caranyagan of Arellano U, followed by Jose Castro, Kyz Llantada also of Arellano and Daryl Samantila of Adamson in that order.

The grade school division was ruled by Jasper Marce with a perfect 6.0 points. At second was Andrew Sopungco ofLourdes School of Mandaluyong with 5.5 points.

Multiple ties occurred at the third spot with several players at 5.0 points. After the tiebreak was applied, Kianjoo Macapagal of LICS emerged third placer followed by Stephen Pangilinan of Paco, Dennis Guttierez III of SMC and Israelito Rilloraza ofLas Piñas.

The tournament is a project of the Ateneo De Manila chess teams under the direction of Grandmaster-candidate and Ateneo program head for chess International Master Idelfonso Datu.

The biannual event is being supported by Jose Leviste Jr., Ateneo chess teams alumni chair.