Champ-slaying PH team tests mettle in China Youth Chess International Open

After conquering its regional rivals, the Philippines will test its mettle against the continent’s best in the Boyi Cup China Youth Chess International Open Tournament slated Jan. 23 to 28 in Harbin, China.

The Philippines, powered by standouts from Dasmariñas City, Cavite, snatched the overall title from perennial champion Vietnam in the 18th Asean Age Group Chess Championship held in Pahang, Malaysia, last Nov. 26 to Dec. 3 with a hoard of 83 gold, 37 silver and 29 bronze medals.

Inspired by the success, Dasmariñas City decided to field its team in the much tougher China tournament which the world-renowned Chinese are expected to dominate.

Members of the team are Daniel Quizon, Michael Concio, Jerlyn Mae Moralde San Diego and Kylen Joy Mordido, who got the outright Fide Master title during the Asean Age Group Chess Championship.

National Coach and International Master Roel Abelgas said his youth squad have been in rigid training at the Chess Academy in Dasmariñas put up by Mayor Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr. and Rep. Jenny Barzaga.

“I hope we do well especially our youth chess squad who came from a successful stint in Pahang, Malaysia, last November,” said Abelgas, consultant and head chess coach of Dasmariñas City.

National Chess Federation of the Philippines chair/president Prospero “Butch” Pichay Jr. sent the team to the Boyi Cup with the support of the Philippine Sports Commission through Chair William “Butch” Ramirez and Commissioner Charles Raymond Maxey. —ROY LUARCA