MANILA—Grandmaster Wesley So continued to assert his mastery over fellow GM Rogelio “Joey” Antonio and seized the lead in the National Chess Championships: 4th Battle of the Grandmasters Sunday at the National Press Club in Manila.
The three-time defending champion won for the second straight time when Antonio resigned on the verge of losing a knight after 32 moves of a Queen’s Pawn Opening.
“It’s too early to celebrate, but it always feels good when you’re winning against one of the top players in the country,” said So.
Antonio admitted that playing against So is anything but enjoyable.
“He’s obviously a tough opponent,” said Antonio.
GM Eugene Torre kept the leader in sight with 1.5 points following his rousing victory over GM Roland Salvador.