Get them all!
International Masters Jayson Gonzales and whiz kid Wesley So will be competing in the Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr Cup and National Open Championship and Chess Challenge and 3rd Singapore Masters and Challengers International Open next month.
December 18-23 at SM City Manila will be The Pichay Cup and the Singapore Masters set on December 26-31 at the Newton Road in Singapore.
The seasoned Gonzales of the Philippine Army is going to try and get his 3rd and final GM norm before the end of the year. He got his first two GM norms in the Calvia Open in Spain and Malaysian Open in Kuala Lumpur in 2004 and 2005, respectively.
On the other hand, my fellow Caviteno, 13-year-old Wesley So, might complete his GM title by 2007. If you will remember, So got his first GM norm early this month in Badweisee, Germany. He became the youngest IM and olympic member at the age of 12. The probability of So becoming one of the youngest GM's in the world is very high.
fabph76. Insights maybe but not answers.
Wika Para sa Lahat
Magandang araw! Magandang hapon! Magandang gabi! If you understood any of the words or phrases I used, chances are that you know they come...
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Philippine Chess History Part 2
Hi! there all of you. Before we continue with Ms. Aida Sevilla Mendoza's articles 3 decades ago dealing with Chess History in the Philippines, I'd like to share some of the memories I have of 1983. I said some, OK? believe me, it would take us a month or so if I try to write them all down.
I was in Grade 1 for the last 3 quarters of the year. So that means to say I was showing off my skills among the teachers, parents and adults surrounding me. Parent-Teacher Conferences, endless consultations on how to "SUPPRESS" the "hyper activeness" (sobrang likot po ng anak ninyo! referring to me. ouch!) I have. Playing in the Maryan school quadrangle with my classmates and batchmates would really complete my day. Man! I miss the thrill of getting tagged by the enemy team members when we play "cops and robbers" during recess, lunchtime and dismissal, not to mention of course the never-seem-to-end children-remember-what-teacher-told-you speeches given by our classroom adviser upon our return to class. Geeh! Thank God I did all those stuffs when I was a student, at least I got a glimpse of how and when teacher looks more of a fool than cool.
Aside from those school-skill memories, I do remember the songs that plague the airwaves, at least my airwaves. Michael Jackson doing the duets with ex-Beatles Paul Mc Cartney, Stevie Wonder,Sir Paul Mc Cartney (again) and Michael Jackson doing The Girl is Mine. There is the twosome act of Air Supply songs. I know for sure that I only listen to the radio whenever adults would switch on that little box with a panel colored red and black handle called radio transistors. Yep! I wish to have those nostalgic gadgets in my place. It runs on a 4 Big Batteries (usually the red label ones, not the unending little rabbit drummer) plus of course those intermittent, often confusing RADIO STATICS. They don' make 'em like tha' used to anymoh! Radio Radio!
About chess? well, again, I was playing chess whenever there's an opportunity to do so, but aside from that, none at all. But chess in the Philippines in 1983? We had the 54th World FIDE Congress. Thanks to the souvenir program.
Guys, here's the 2nd part:
After Five Centuries: The Philippines is Chess Country
by Aida Sevilla Mendoza
The Spanish conquistadores who traversed the seas of the New World must have carried chessboards on board their ships. The game of chess in Arabic form, had been brought to Spain by the invading Moors from North Africa between 900 and 1,000 A.D. By the 16th century, the game had spread to other European countries and had developed in its present form with the introduction of six strategic defenses: checkmate, stalemate, pawn moves, castling and the extension of the bishop's and the queen's powers.
Chess historian Lara thinks that, at the beginning, chess was played in the Philippines mostly by the Spanish clergy, nobility and well-to-do. There is hardly any mention of chess in historical writings on the Philippines under Spanish rule, but Lara notes that in "Noli Me Tangere," which was written around 1887, the author and Filipino patriot, Jose Rizal, mentions a game of chess between the novel's hero, Crisostomo Ibarra, and Capitan Basilio. "Of course", Lara continues, "the late Dr. Fernando Canon, Rizal's friend and contemporary, used to narrate that the national hero played excellent chess while staying in Europe. Rizal must have learned the game during his sojourn in Heidelberg, the city of chess-playing citizens."
When the United States defeated Spain in the Spanish-American War and took over the Philippines, Canon, who was an insurgent general during the resistance against the Americans, joined the new government and was appointed director of public works. Lara says that Canon sought to popularize chess, encouraging youngsters to learn the game and organizing chess matches. He did this during his spare time, assisted by Don Jose Sequera and by chess-loving American soldiers, teachers, and businessmen, including Alvah Johnson, who was to become Philippine Champion.
Together with Alva Johnson and ten other chess enthusiasts (Adolfo Gutierrez, Ismael Amado, Olimpio Julio, Luis Cucullu, Jose Rocha, Dr. Gavino Sepulveda, Juan Mencarini, Luis Perez Samanillo, Sulpicio Beltranand Jose Warren), Canon organized the "Club de Ajedrez". The club set up individual matches and tournament sand later became the Philippine CHess Association.
One of its noteworthy achievements, wrote Lara, was a telegraphic match arranged with hongkong. The Filipino team was composed of former Supreme Court Justice Delfin Jaranilla, Adolfo Gutierrez and Ismael Amado. Amado had earlier earned a distinction as a student in New York when he won first prize in a rapid transit tournament held by Manhattan Chess Club.
Gutierrez, who was national chess champino, managed the CLib de Ajedrez and organized exhibition matches in Manila, including a series of games between himself and Datu Alip, the chess champion of Lanao. (by thenthe Muslims had mastered the modern version of the game, thanks to Mayor Salvador Barros of the Philippine Constabulary who introduced international chess to the people of Lanao when he was assigned there.)
The Club de Ajedrez also had national and metropolitan championship tournaments, but these activities declined after a fire destroyed the club's quarters in the Cosmopolitan Club Building at the foot of Sta. Cruz Bridge.
According to Lara, by 1932 Adolfo Gutierrez's hold on the national chess title was being challenged by a 14 year old Ramon Lontoc Jr. The young prodigy proved his mettle when Dr. Alexander Alekhine, then the world chess champion, stopped over in Manila during a tour of the Far East. Alekhine played exhibition games in Manila at the invitation of Ismael Amado, who had met him in new York. The Philippine Carnival Association, YMCA, and Casino Espanol jointly sponsored two exhibition games, one a blindfold session and the other a simultaneous play. Young Lontoc played the first game with Alekhine. Although the boy lost the match after 56 moves, the world champion praised Lontoc as a "genius of the defense".
In 1933...
(to be continued)
I was in Grade 1 for the last 3 quarters of the year. So that means to say I was showing off my skills among the teachers, parents and adults surrounding me. Parent-Teacher Conferences, endless consultations on how to "SUPPRESS" the "hyper activeness" (sobrang likot po ng anak ninyo! referring to me. ouch!) I have. Playing in the Maryan school quadrangle with my classmates and batchmates would really complete my day. Man! I miss the thrill of getting tagged by the enemy team members when we play "cops and robbers" during recess, lunchtime and dismissal, not to mention of course the never-seem-to-end children-remember-what-teacher-told-you speeches given by our classroom adviser upon our return to class. Geeh! Thank God I did all those stuffs when I was a student, at least I got a glimpse of how and when teacher looks more of a fool than cool.
Aside from those school-skill memories, I do remember the songs that plague the airwaves, at least my airwaves. Michael Jackson doing the duets with ex-Beatles Paul Mc Cartney, Stevie Wonder,Sir Paul Mc Cartney (again) and Michael Jackson doing The Girl is Mine. There is the twosome act of Air Supply songs. I know for sure that I only listen to the radio whenever adults would switch on that little box with a panel colored red and black handle called radio transistors. Yep! I wish to have those nostalgic gadgets in my place. It runs on a 4 Big Batteries (usually the red label ones, not the unending little rabbit drummer) plus of course those intermittent, often confusing RADIO STATICS. They don' make 'em like tha' used to anymoh! Radio Radio!
About chess? well, again, I was playing chess whenever there's an opportunity to do so, but aside from that, none at all. But chess in the Philippines in 1983? We had the 54th World FIDE Congress. Thanks to the souvenir program.
Guys, here's the 2nd part:
After Five Centuries: The Philippines is Chess Country
by Aida Sevilla Mendoza
The Spanish conquistadores who traversed the seas of the New World must have carried chessboards on board their ships. The game of chess in Arabic form, had been brought to Spain by the invading Moors from North Africa between 900 and 1,000 A.D. By the 16th century, the game had spread to other European countries and had developed in its present form with the introduction of six strategic defenses: checkmate, stalemate, pawn moves, castling and the extension of the bishop's and the queen's powers.
Chess historian Lara thinks that, at the beginning, chess was played in the Philippines mostly by the Spanish clergy, nobility and well-to-do. There is hardly any mention of chess in historical writings on the Philippines under Spanish rule, but Lara notes that in "Noli Me Tangere," which was written around 1887, the author and Filipino patriot, Jose Rizal, mentions a game of chess between the novel's hero, Crisostomo Ibarra, and Capitan Basilio. "Of course", Lara continues, "the late Dr. Fernando Canon, Rizal's friend and contemporary, used to narrate that the national hero played excellent chess while staying in Europe. Rizal must have learned the game during his sojourn in Heidelberg, the city of chess-playing citizens."
When the United States defeated Spain in the Spanish-American War and took over the Philippines, Canon, who was an insurgent general during the resistance against the Americans, joined the new government and was appointed director of public works. Lara says that Canon sought to popularize chess, encouraging youngsters to learn the game and organizing chess matches. He did this during his spare time, assisted by Don Jose Sequera and by chess-loving American soldiers, teachers, and businessmen, including Alvah Johnson, who was to become Philippine Champion.
Together with Alva Johnson and ten other chess enthusiasts (Adolfo Gutierrez, Ismael Amado, Olimpio Julio, Luis Cucullu, Jose Rocha, Dr. Gavino Sepulveda, Juan Mencarini, Luis Perez Samanillo, Sulpicio Beltranand Jose Warren), Canon organized the "Club de Ajedrez". The club set up individual matches and tournament sand later became the Philippine CHess Association.
One of its noteworthy achievements, wrote Lara, was a telegraphic match arranged with hongkong. The Filipino team was composed of former Supreme Court Justice Delfin Jaranilla, Adolfo Gutierrez and Ismael Amado. Amado had earlier earned a distinction as a student in New York when he won first prize in a rapid transit tournament held by Manhattan Chess Club.
Gutierrez, who was national chess champino, managed the CLib de Ajedrez and organized exhibition matches in Manila, including a series of games between himself and Datu Alip, the chess champion of Lanao. (by thenthe Muslims had mastered the modern version of the game, thanks to Mayor Salvador Barros of the Philippine Constabulary who introduced international chess to the people of Lanao when he was assigned there.)
The Club de Ajedrez also had national and metropolitan championship tournaments, but these activities declined after a fire destroyed the club's quarters in the Cosmopolitan Club Building at the foot of Sta. Cruz Bridge.
According to Lara, by 1932 Adolfo Gutierrez's hold on the national chess title was being challenged by a 14 year old Ramon Lontoc Jr. The young prodigy proved his mettle when Dr. Alexander Alekhine, then the world chess champion, stopped over in Manila during a tour of the Far East. Alekhine played exhibition games in Manila at the invitation of Ismael Amado, who had met him in new York. The Philippine Carnival Association, YMCA, and Casino Espanol jointly sponsored two exhibition games, one a blindfold session and the other a simultaneous play. Young Lontoc played the first game with Alekhine. Although the boy lost the match after 56 moves, the world champion praised Lontoc as a "genius of the defense".
In 1933...
(to be continued)
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
After Five Centuries: The Philippines is Chess Country
From 54th FIDE World Congress Souvenir Program, Manila 1983
By Aida Sevilla Mendoza
Part 1
SINCE chess is said to have originated in India around 500-600 A.D., chess historians like Manuel F. Lara, secretary-general of the Philippine Chess Federation, believe that chess was introduced to the Philippines during the golden days of the Madjapahit Empire.
Students of Philippine History will recall that the Philippines were a part of three successive Hindu Malayan Empires: the Shri-Vishayan during the 10th to the 14th centuries, the Madjapahit from the 14th to the 15th centuries, and the Malaccan Empire in the 15th century. Hindu culture reached the Philippines through the Javanese, who colonized Sumatra, Borneo and Celebes and left traces of their civilization in Sulu, Lanao, Cotabato, Panay, Cebu and as far as north as Manila.
The Javanese culture must have included the game of chess, which the datus and the Mohammedan nobility enthusiastically took up. Lara writes in his A Short History of Chess in the Philippines. As a proof, Lara points out those historical records of the expansion of chess in Southeast Asia coincided with the formation of the Madjapahit Empire.
The introduction of chess to the inhabitants of Mindanao is associated with the arrival of three immigrant Muslim brothers from Burma around 1400 AD: Shareef Kabungsuan, who settled in Cotabato, Shareef Alace who chose Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental and Shareef Beginda, who made Sulu his new home. “They brought with them the game of chess as played then,” Lara claims. “The game as played by the early Hindus was quickly taken up by the Muslim Filipinos. Thus chess as played in ancient India has long been played in Mindanao, long before the Spaniards came”.
Modern chess came to the Philippines in 1571 with the founding of Manila by Miguel de Legazpi, who had arrived from Mexico in 1565 with the Augustinian friar, Miguel de Urdaneta. Because of this, Lara says, modern international chess as it is now played in most parts of the Philippines can be considered of Mexican origin, not only because Legazpi and Urdaneta came directly from Mexico, but also because during the next 150 years, Mexico was the Philippines main conduit with Spain…
(To be continued…)
By Aida Sevilla Mendoza
Part 1
SINCE chess is said to have originated in India around 500-600 A.D., chess historians like Manuel F. Lara, secretary-general of the Philippine Chess Federation, believe that chess was introduced to the Philippines during the golden days of the Madjapahit Empire.
Students of Philippine History will recall that the Philippines were a part of three successive Hindu Malayan Empires: the Shri-Vishayan during the 10th to the 14th centuries, the Madjapahit from the 14th to the 15th centuries, and the Malaccan Empire in the 15th century. Hindu culture reached the Philippines through the Javanese, who colonized Sumatra, Borneo and Celebes and left traces of their civilization in Sulu, Lanao, Cotabato, Panay, Cebu and as far as north as Manila.
The Javanese culture must have included the game of chess, which the datus and the Mohammedan nobility enthusiastically took up. Lara writes in his A Short History of Chess in the Philippines. As a proof, Lara points out those historical records of the expansion of chess in Southeast Asia coincided with the formation of the Madjapahit Empire.
The introduction of chess to the inhabitants of Mindanao is associated with the arrival of three immigrant Muslim brothers from Burma around 1400 AD: Shareef Kabungsuan, who settled in Cotabato, Shareef Alace who chose Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental and Shareef Beginda, who made Sulu his new home. “They brought with them the game of chess as played then,” Lara claims. “The game as played by the early Hindus was quickly taken up by the Muslim Filipinos. Thus chess as played in ancient India has long been played in Mindanao, long before the Spaniards came”.
Modern chess came to the Philippines in 1571 with the founding of Manila by Miguel de Legazpi, who had arrived from Mexico in 1565 with the Augustinian friar, Miguel de Urdaneta. Because of this, Lara says, modern international chess as it is now played in most parts of the Philippines can be considered of Mexican origin, not only because Legazpi and Urdaneta came directly from Mexico, but also because during the next 150 years, Mexico was the Philippines main conduit with Spain…
(To be continued…)
Chess Puzzles
From one of the Sunday Newspapers...
Mate in 4 White to move
Mate in 3 White to move
Mate in 3 White to move
Mate in 4 White to move
Mate in 3 White to move
Mate in 3 White to move
Turqueza Tops MCC Kiddies
Hi guys!
After the 1st GMA Cup, there's not much news to be frantic about, save for the scenes in politics in our country. Here's some headlines
"Gringo sets sights on May polls" I say: "May God guide all of us in choosing our leaders to run the country and give our hard-earned tax deductions"
"Senators willing to abolish pork if GMA gives up discretionary fund" I say: "Tactics 101, as what TCG says, he goes there, I go here etc"
Save for our national pride:
"Home at last for rare Noli, Fili copies" I say : "Nice nice nice!" At least we are slowly funding way and means to acquire what is rightly ours!
And of course, sports, sports, sports and more of the sports...
"Asiad bowlers capable of 5 golds" I say: "JUST DO IT"
"Biggest batch of Doha-bound bets off today" I say: "Good luck! It's a relief to know that slowly but surely the Filipino Mindset of BASKETBALL! BASKETBALL! is fading from our consciousness" Don't get me wrong, I do play ball, but I also believe that there's more to sports than basketball. Direct training funds away from basketball, at least government funds so that other sports will get a fairer share of the Philippine budget. Why not try Chess? Grassroots Chess? BEWARE though, Directing is one thing, allocating is another thing but the key move here is WISE USE OF THE BUDGET. You do not pamper players who are not performing at his best. You provide training to those who deserve it. Players who are peaking or at their best. Not the ones who have had their days. Sorry! Just like anything, anyone would be wise enough to know that the world revolves, it changes so do human skills and abilities. As what the dead Beatles guitarist say "All things must pass".
Anyways, so much for that. Lets have an update about Metropolitan Chess Club Kiddies
"Mari Joseph Turqueza tops the November edition of the MCC Kiddies Standard chess tourney held over the weekend at the St. Francis Square in Mandaluyong City"
After the 1st GMA Cup, there's not much news to be frantic about, save for the scenes in politics in our country. Here's some headlines
"Gringo sets sights on May polls" I say: "May God guide all of us in choosing our leaders to run the country and give our hard-earned tax deductions"
"Senators willing to abolish pork if GMA gives up discretionary fund" I say: "Tactics 101, as what TCG says, he goes there, I go here etc"
Save for our national pride:
"Home at last for rare Noli, Fili copies" I say : "Nice nice nice!" At least we are slowly funding way and means to acquire what is rightly ours!
And of course, sports, sports, sports and more of the sports...
"Asiad bowlers capable of 5 golds" I say: "JUST DO IT"
"Biggest batch of Doha-bound bets off today" I say: "Good luck! It's a relief to know that slowly but surely the Filipino Mindset of BASKETBALL! BASKETBALL! is fading from our consciousness" Don't get me wrong, I do play ball, but I also believe that there's more to sports than basketball. Direct training funds away from basketball, at least government funds so that other sports will get a fairer share of the Philippine budget. Why not try Chess? Grassroots Chess? BEWARE though, Directing is one thing, allocating is another thing but the key move here is WISE USE OF THE BUDGET. You do not pamper players who are not performing at his best. You provide training to those who deserve it. Players who are peaking or at their best. Not the ones who have had their days. Sorry! Just like anything, anyone would be wise enough to know that the world revolves, it changes so do human skills and abilities. As what the dead Beatles guitarist say "All things must pass".
Anyways, so much for that. Lets have an update about Metropolitan Chess Club Kiddies
"Mari Joseph Turqueza tops the November edition of the MCC Kiddies Standard chess tourney held over the weekend at the St. Francis Square in Mandaluyong City"
Monday, November 27, 2006
Fake Chess Journalist Foundation!
Hi there!
I am posting a part of Mr. Bobby Ang's article last November 15, 2006 for his Chess Piece Column appearing in Business World.
"Important Notice: There are some chess reporters (no, they do not qualify as journalists) who are going around soliciting funds for a “Journalist Chess Foundation” from chess enthusiasts and parents. Oftentimes they have used my name as one of its founders.
I want to be absolutely clear here:
1. To my knowledge there is NO such thing as a Journalist Chess Foundation;
2. Even if there were, I have never been and do not intend to ever be connected with it. Indeed, if the people going around to ask for money are any indication of the caliber of its members, then no good will ever come of it;
3. I have not asked anyone to solicit funds for any foundation; and
4. If someone should approach you with such a request please take steps to make sure that he is beaten up within an inch of death.
C'mon, please spare us from this and quit it now before the authorities get hold of you and your dirty ideas. There are a million and one ways to earn decently, obviously this ain't one of them.
I am posting a part of Mr. Bobby Ang's article last November 15, 2006 for his Chess Piece Column appearing in Business World.
"Important Notice: There are some chess reporters (no, they do not qualify as journalists) who are going around soliciting funds for a “Journalist Chess Foundation” from chess enthusiasts and parents. Oftentimes they have used my name as one of its founders.
I want to be absolutely clear here:
1. To my knowledge there is NO such thing as a Journalist Chess Foundation;
2. Even if there were, I have never been and do not intend to ever be connected with it. Indeed, if the people going around to ask for money are any indication of the caliber of its members, then no good will ever come of it;
3. I have not asked anyone to solicit funds for any foundation; and
4. If someone should approach you with such a request please take steps to make sure that he is beaten up within an inch of death.
C'mon, please spare us from this and quit it now before the authorities get hold of you and your dirty ideas. There are a million and one ways to earn decently, obviously this ain't one of them.
Manila 1983
Hi guys! How are you all? Bet you had to figure out what we had in 1983? Of course it would have to have happened in the Philippines and it would have be concerning Chess... Guessed it right?
54th FIDE World Congress in Manila Philippines.
So why am I writing about it? and why am feeling like it's my first time to be receiving a gift from Santa?
Because (sounding like someone talking to children asking endlessly about the why's and how's of this place called Earth) I was able to buy 20 copies of the 54th FIDE World Congress Manila 1983 Souvenir Program Booklet. For sure they're out of print and out of our nation's memories except of course for those who live in and die for chess, Philippine Chess. Yeah! yeah! yeah! So what about it? what did I find inside of those BEST BUY-BONUS TYPE acquisition? For a very cheap price, believe me, it's cheaper than your ordinary 4 kilometer jeepney ride fare, I got to read inside of the following articles entitled:
- FIDE in Manila, Bringing World Chess into the 21st Centuryby Alex Dacanay
- Congress Sidelights by Toti Abundo
- Schedule of FIDE Championships1983-1993
- CAMPO by Al Mendoza (you should see the caricature-esque drawing by NIK Ricio, Jess Abrera)
- After Five Centuries, The Philippines is Chess Country by Aida Sevilla Mendoza( D' History!)
- Grassroots Chess by Toti Abundo, Photography by Manny Santos
Of course, I intentionally left out above the photos of GM E. Torre. My God, so young back then. Not to mention the last page which featured our National Artist Larry Alcala caricatures entitled 54th World Chess Congress.
I will be posting here aida Sevilla Mendoza's article. Boy oh boy! full of details about Philippine Chess History. I'll be writing down the article in full next time.
After some weeks of reading nothing except this booklet, I said hey, why, of all places, I found such treasure in Ayala Museum? Mr. Enrique Zobel happened to be the Chairman of Philippine Chess Federation during that time.
In 1983, I was 7 years old and I was only learning to trick my opponents with Knight Forks but was'nt really playing chess the way whiz kids do it now. I didn't even know that there was this Philippine Chess Federation, nor did I thought of writing about Philippine Chess (trying!). But for sure, that souvenir program made things sunny for me and the rest of Philippine Chess.
Till then!
54th FIDE World Congress in Manila Philippines.
So why am I writing about it? and why am feeling like it's my first time to be receiving a gift from Santa?
Because (sounding like someone talking to children asking endlessly about the why's and how's of this place called Earth) I was able to buy 20 copies of the 54th FIDE World Congress Manila 1983 Souvenir Program Booklet. For sure they're out of print and out of our nation's memories except of course for those who live in and die for chess, Philippine Chess. Yeah! yeah! yeah! So what about it? what did I find inside of those BEST BUY-BONUS TYPE acquisition? For a very cheap price, believe me, it's cheaper than your ordinary 4 kilometer jeepney ride fare, I got to read inside of the following articles entitled:
- FIDE in Manila, Bringing World Chess into the 21st Centuryby Alex Dacanay
- Congress Sidelights by Toti Abundo
- Schedule of FIDE Championships1983-1993
- CAMPO by Al Mendoza (you should see the caricature-esque drawing by NIK Ricio, Jess Abrera)
- After Five Centuries, The Philippines is Chess Country by Aida Sevilla Mendoza( D' History!)
- Grassroots Chess by Toti Abundo, Photography by Manny Santos
Of course, I intentionally left out above the photos of GM E. Torre. My God, so young back then. Not to mention the last page which featured our National Artist Larry Alcala caricatures entitled 54th World Chess Congress.
I will be posting here aida Sevilla Mendoza's article. Boy oh boy! full of details about Philippine Chess History. I'll be writing down the article in full next time.
After some weeks of reading nothing except this booklet, I said hey, why, of all places, I found such treasure in Ayala Museum? Mr. Enrique Zobel happened to be the Chairman of Philippine Chess Federation during that time.
In 1983, I was 7 years old and I was only learning to trick my opponents with Knight Forks but was'nt really playing chess the way whiz kids do it now. I didn't even know that there was this Philippine Chess Federation, nor did I thought of writing about Philippine Chess (trying!). But for sure, that souvenir program made things sunny for me and the rest of Philippine Chess.
Till then!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Latest Update from NCFP Files
Pengxiang Captures Crown; Nouri is Top Filipino Player
Final standings:7.5 points -- Z. Pengxiang (China)7 -- A. Onischuk (USA), V. Mikhalevski (Israel)6.5 -- V. Akobian (USA), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China)6 -- Z. Zhong (China), H. Nouri (RP), V. Belov (Russia), D. Laylo (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bancod (RP).5.5 – W. Zhou (China), O. Dimakiling (RP), R. Nolte (RP), C. Garma (RP), J. Gomez (RP).5 – S. Severino (RP), W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP), J. Mayor (RP), N. Mariano (RP), A. Makinano (RP), R. Tolentino (RP), R. Bitoon (RP).
WHILE the Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of the Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of US $6,000 (P300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moevs of the King’s Indian Defense, while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of the Benoni to share second to third places with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined US $4,000 and US $3,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth to sixth places with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year old pride of Escalante City, finsiehd as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo , IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM-candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year old campaigner form Bacoor, Caviote, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So , a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22 nd to 31st places with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd to 43rd places with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44 th places with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
The Singapore-based Sadorra provided one of the few bright spots for the Filipinos when he outclassed IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The 20-year old Sadorra, whose family migrated to Singapore five years ago, played decisively against Vakhidov to post one of the day’s inspiring triumphs and give the Filipinos something to cheer about.
Gonzales outwitted NM Oliver Barbosa, Senador defeated IM Richard Bitoon, Bancod downed Mariano and Ranola won by default over paraplegic Sander Severino to join Sadorra in the money list with six points.
WIM Beverly Mendoza halved the point with FM Roderick Nava to emerge as the highest-placed female player with 4.5 points.
WNM Enerose Magno won over Merben Roque to tie Mendoza with 4.5 points. Magno, however, settled for second place after the tiebreak.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao finished third with four points.
A big disappointment was Severino, the multiple gold medalist in the recent Para Games held early this year.
Severino, the 21-year old native of Silay City who earned a lot of respect by beating Torre in the seventh round, failed to arrive in time and defaulted his match to Laylo.
courtesy of NCFP website.
To TCG, My digital camera was not returned to me so till now, am also waiting for my memory card which containes the photos from the 1st GMA Cup. I'll make sure you'll have a copy.
Final standings:7.5 points -- Z. Pengxiang (China)7 -- A. Onischuk (USA), V. Mikhalevski (Israel)6.5 -- V. Akobian (USA), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China)6 -- Z. Zhong (China), H. Nouri (RP), V. Belov (Russia), D. Laylo (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bancod (RP).5.5 – W. Zhou (China), O. Dimakiling (RP), R. Nolte (RP), C. Garma (RP), J. Gomez (RP).5 – S. Severino (RP), W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP), J. Mayor (RP), N. Mariano (RP), A. Makinano (RP), R. Tolentino (RP), R. Bitoon (RP).
WHILE the Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of the Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of US $6,000 (P300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moevs of the King’s Indian Defense, while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of the Benoni to share second to third places with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined US $4,000 and US $3,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth to sixth places with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year old pride of Escalante City, finsiehd as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo , IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM-candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year old campaigner form Bacoor, Caviote, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So , a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22 nd to 31st places with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd to 43rd places with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44 th places with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
The Singapore-based Sadorra provided one of the few bright spots for the Filipinos when he outclassed IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The 20-year old Sadorra, whose family migrated to Singapore five years ago, played decisively against Vakhidov to post one of the day’s inspiring triumphs and give the Filipinos something to cheer about.
Gonzales outwitted NM Oliver Barbosa, Senador defeated IM Richard Bitoon, Bancod downed Mariano and Ranola won by default over paraplegic Sander Severino to join Sadorra in the money list with six points.
WIM Beverly Mendoza halved the point with FM Roderick Nava to emerge as the highest-placed female player with 4.5 points.
WNM Enerose Magno won over Merben Roque to tie Mendoza with 4.5 points. Magno, however, settled for second place after the tiebreak.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao finished third with four points.
A big disappointment was Severino, the multiple gold medalist in the recent Para Games held early this year.
Severino, the 21-year old native of Silay City who earned a lot of respect by beating Torre in the seventh round, failed to arrive in time and defaulted his match to Laylo.
courtesy of NCFP website.
To TCG, My digital camera was not returned to me so till now, am also waiting for my memory card which containes the photos from the 1st GMA Cup. I'll make sure you'll have a copy.
Friday, November 24, 2006
1st GMA Cup Results (Compilation II)
Courtesy of Manila Bulletin:
Chinese GM wins GMA Cup title
WHILE THE Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Parañaque City.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of a Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year-old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of ,000 (roughly R300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the USA subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moves of the King’s Indian Defense while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of a Benoni to share second place with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined ,000 and ,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year-old pride of Escalante City, finished as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo, IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year-old campaigner form Bacoor, Cavite, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So, a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22nd spot with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44th place with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
Courtesy of NCFP Official Website :
Pengxiang Captures Crown; Nouri is Top Filipino Player
Final standings:7.5 points -- Z. Pengxiang (China)7 -- A. Onischuk (USA), V. Mikhalevski (Israel)6.5 -- V. Akobian (USA), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China)6 -- Z. Zhong (China), H. Nouri (RP), V. Belov (Russia), D. Laylo (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bancod (RP).5.5 – W. Zhou (China), O. Dimakiling (RP), R. Nolte (RP), C. Garma (RP), J. Gomez (RP).5 – S. Severino (RP), W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP), J. Mayor (RP), N. Mariano (RP), A. Makinano (RP), R. Tolentino (RP), R. Bitoon (RP).
WHILE the Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of the Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of US $6,000 (P300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moevs of the King’s Indian Defense, while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of the Benoni to share second to third places with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined US $4,000 and US $3,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth to sixth places with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year old pride of Escalante City, finsiehd as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo , IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM-candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year old campaigner form Bacoor, Caviote, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So , a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22 nd to 31st places with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd to 43rd places with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44 th places with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
The Singapore-based Sadorra provided one of the few bright spots for the Filipinos when he outclassed IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The 20-year old Sadorra, whose family migrated to Singapore five years ago, played decisively against Vakhidov to post one of the day’s inspiring triumphs and give the Filipinos something to cheer about.
Gonzales outwitted NM Oliver Barbosa, Senador defeated IM Richard Bitoon, Bancod downed Mariano and Ranola won by default over paraplegic Sander Severino to join Sadorra in the money list with six points.
WIM Beverly Mendoza halved the point with FM Roderick Nava to emerge as the highest-placed female player with 4.5 points.
WNM Enerose Magno won over Merben Roque to tie Mendoza with 4.5 points. Magno, however, settled for second place after the tiebreak.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao finished third with four points.
A big disappointment was Severino, the multiple gold medalist in the recent Para Games held early this year.
Severino, the 21-year old native of Silay City who earned a lot of respect by beating Torre in the seventh round, failed to arrive in time and defaulted his match to Laylo.
Pengxiang Grabs Solo Chess Lead; Nouri, Dableo Stay Alive
Standings after eight rounds:1. Z. Pengxiang (China) 6.5 points; 2-6 A. Onischuk (US), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), Z. Zhong (China), R. Dableo (RP), H. Nouri (RP) 6; 7-11 C. Garma (RP), V. Akobian (US), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China), Z.Zhou (China) 5.5; 12-24 W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), N. Mariano (RP), D. Laylo (RP), V. Belov (Russia), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP) , Y. Ranola (RP) , J. Gonzales (RP) , J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bitoon (RP) , R. Bancod (RP), E. Senador (RP), R. Tolentino (RP) 5.
Ninth-round pairings: (white player first ) Z. Zhong (China) vs Z. Pengxiang (China) ; R. Dableo (RP) vs. A. Onischuk (US) ; V. Mikhalevski (Israel) vs. H. Nouri (RP) ; W. Zhou (China) vs. N. Hua (China) ; V. Akobian (US) vs. C. Garma (RP); W. Rui (China) vs. M. Paragua (RP) ; W. So (RP) vs. V. Belov (Russia); J. Sadorra (RP) vs. T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan); S. Severino (RP) vs. D. Laylo (RP) ; R. Bitoon (RP) vs. E. Senador (RP) ; R. Bancod (RP) vs. N. Mariano (RP) ; J. Gonzales (RP) vs. O. Barbosa (RP) ; Y. Ranola (RP) vs. R. Tolentino (RP) ; O. Dimakiling (RP) vs. W. Li (China); J. de Ramos (RP) vs. R. Nolte RP).
LITTLE-known Hamed Nouri of the Philippines authored the biggest upset win in the tournament by beating GM Vladimir Belov of Russia in their keenly-watched encounter, even as second GM Zhang Pengxiang of China grabbed the solo lead with a masterful win over GM Varuzhan Akobian of United States in the eighth and penultimate round of the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Nouri, who made his presence felt with back-to-back victories over GMs Rogelio Antonio Jr. and Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor in the sixth and seventh rounds, claimed the scalp of sixth-ranked Belov to become one of two Filipinos still in contention for the top prize of US $ 6,000 (P300,000).
Nouri, known n the local chess circle as the "Pinoy Kasparov" for his resemblance with the former world champion from Russia.
"Swerte. Gagawin ko ang lahat ng aking makakaya para makatapos ng maganda dito," said Nouri, a former collegiate standout form West Negros College whose campaign is being supported by Mayor Santiago Barceloan and Bro. Rolly Dizon of La Salle.
The win put the 28-year old pride of Escalante, Negros Occidental in a tie for second to sixth places with compatriot and Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo, top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States, GM Victor Mikhalevski of Israel, GMs Ni Hau and Zhang Zhong and IM Wang Rui of China and Akobian.
Dableo, who is seeking the second of three GM norms, vented his ire on former national junior campaigner Oliver Barbosa in 31 moves of the Slav only a few hours after allowing GM NI Hau of Chan to escape with a draw in their seventh-round encounter earlier in the day.
Pengxiang, the fourth highest-rated player in China with an ELO of 2636, outduelled Akobian to assume the solo lead with 6.5 points out of a possible eight in the prestigious nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr.
Onischuk, who ruled the US Championship last March, and Mikhalevski drew their match at the top board.
Hua and Zhong also halved the point in an all-Chinese match.
Rui, ranked 13 th overall, stopped the giant-killing run of Para Games gold medalist and paraplegic Sander Severino in 39 moves of the Slav.
Severino, who rose to prominence by winning five gold medals in the Para Games held last year, failed to handle the pressure this time and yielded to Rui in 39 moves of yet another Slav encounter.
The 21-year-old native of Silay City earlier stole the limelight by racking up three wins, including an ego-boosting seventh-round triumph over Asia’s fist GM Eugene Torre.
Veteran campaigner Chito Garma also barged into the elite circle by humbling fellow IM Oliver Dimakiling to forge a five-way tie for seventh to 11 th places with 4.5 points.
With Garma are Akobian and Chinese players Hua, Rui and Zhong.
Teen sensation Wesley So and IM Darwin Laylo also drew their match to lead a big group of players with five points.
With So and Laylo are GMs Mark Paragua and Nelson Mariano II, Barbosa, Severino, IMs Jayson Gonzales, Richard Bitoon Yves Ranola and Ronald Bancod, NM Emmanuel Senador, Rustum Tolentino and Julio Sadorra.
Paragua drew with Ranola, Mariano bested NM Mirabeau Maga, Goznales halved the poitnwith IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan, Bitoon overpowered Dr. Jenny Mayor, Bancod toppled GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor, Senador subdued FM Roderick Nava and Tolentio outsteadied NM Petronio Roca. Sadorra also stole the limelight by dealing the 55-year odl Torre his second setback for the day. In other eight-round results, NM Adrian Pacis defeated Im Barlo Nadera, John Paul Gomez whipped Kamil Rzoska of Poland, Wang Li overwhelmed Rhoebl Legaspi, Anthony Makinano trounced WFM Liu Yang of China, Efren Bagamasbad outplayed WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao, Catherine Perena downed Ramon Manon-og, Alfredo Paez stopped Richard de la Cruz, Rolando Yutuc repulsed Nelson Villanueva Jr. , Ibaryu Adante ripped Quirino Sagario and Dandel Fernandez dumped Loreshyl Cuizon, and Kimberly Jane Cunanan surprised Jedara Docena.
In the Challenger Division, Arlan Cabe overwhelmed erstwhile solo leader Allan Cantonjos and Edsel Montoya downed Raymond Salcedo to share the lead and boost their chances for the top prize of US $1,000.
Both Cabe and Montoya now have seven points out of a possible eight.
Cantonjos remained in third place with 6.5 points.
Rodolfo Diaz whipped De Leon Marohom Jr., Ali Branzuela bested Christian Arroyo, Noel de la Cruz stopped Marlon Ricafort to share fourth to sixth places with six points.
Verth Alora outduelled Paolo Florendo and Ric Portogalera dumped Rich Salcedo to lead a big group of 5.5 pointers.
Other eight-round Chalenger winners were Robert Arellano, Chris Castellano, Allan Macala, Chris Rodriguez, Andrew Vasquez, Allan Sasot, Christopher Castellano,. , Glicerio Pardillo Jr., Ed Agagon, Garry Garcia, Carmelita Abanes, Josephine Berago, Marion Ilagan, Marc Nazario, Leo Ricana, Franz Barreto, Robert Francsico and Kaye Anne Legaspi.
Chinese GM wins GMA Cup title
WHILE THE Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Parañaque City.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of a Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year-old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of ,000 (roughly R300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the USA subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moves of the King’s Indian Defense while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of a Benoni to share second place with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined ,000 and ,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year-old pride of Escalante City, finished as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo, IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year-old campaigner form Bacoor, Cavite, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So, a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22nd spot with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44th place with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
Courtesy of NCFP Official Website :
Pengxiang Captures Crown; Nouri is Top Filipino Player
Final standings:7.5 points -- Z. Pengxiang (China)7 -- A. Onischuk (USA), V. Mikhalevski (Israel)6.5 -- V. Akobian (USA), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China)6 -- Z. Zhong (China), H. Nouri (RP), V. Belov (Russia), D. Laylo (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bancod (RP).5.5 – W. Zhou (China), O. Dimakiling (RP), R. Nolte (RP), C. Garma (RP), J. Gomez (RP).5 – S. Severino (RP), W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP), J. Mayor (RP), N. Mariano (RP), A. Makinano (RP), R. Tolentino (RP), R. Bitoon (RP).
WHILE the Filipinos struggled hard to keep local pride alive, GM Zhang Pengxiang of China emerged as the biggest winner in the inaugural President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge before a big crowd at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China and No. 78 in the world with an ELO of 2636, defeated compatriot GM Zhang Zhong in 54 moves of the Ruy Lopez to finish with a nine-round total of 7.5 points out of a possible nine.
The 26-year old Chinese GM brought home the coveted GMA Cup and the top prize of US $6,000 (P300,000) for his triumph.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States subdued Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo of the Philippines in 66 moevs of the King’s Indian Defense, while GM Victor Mikhalevski overpowered little-known NM Hamed Nouri in 32 moves of the Benoni to share second to third places with seven points.
Onischuk and Mikhalevski split the combined US $4,000 and US $3,000 cash prizes for second and third placers in this week-long tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Three other foreign players – GM Vladimir Akobian of the United States and GM Ni Hua and IM Wang Rui of China – finished in a three-way tie for fourth to sixth places with 6.5 points.
Nouri, the 28-year old pride of Escalante City, finsiehd as the highest-placed Filipino player in eighth place behind Zhong with six points.
Known in the local chess circle as "Pinoy Kasparov" for his physical resemblance with the former Russian world chess champion, Nouri actually finished in a heavy 10-way tie with Zhong, GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and compatriots IM Darwin Laylo, IM Yves Ranola, Dableo , IM Jayson Gonzales, NM Emmanuel Senador, FM Julio Sadorra and IM Ronald Bancod.
GM-candidate Wesley So missed the winning combination against Belov, allowing the sixth-ranked Russian player to escape with the win in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The loss put an abrupt end to the Filipino’s hopes for his second GM norm in as many weeks.
The 13-year old campaigner form Bacoor, Caviote, who earned his first GM norm in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, needed a win over Belov to earn his second GM norm.
"Sayang pero na-missed ko yung right combination laban kay Belov. Baka nanalo sana," said So , a freshman student at St. Francis of Assisi.
Surprisingly, none of the country’s five GMs landed in the winner’s circle.
The country’s highest-ranked player, GM Mark Paragua, fell to IM Wang Rui in 40 moves of the Slav in the ninth and final round to slip into a tie for 22 nd to 31st places with only five points.
GM Nelson Mariano II also bowed to IM Ronald Bancod in 38 moves of the Sicilian while GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor was held to a draw by No. 58 NM Efren Bagamasbad to settle for a tie for 32nd to 43rd places with 4.5 points.
Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre lost by default to Cebu-based NM Anthony Makinano and finished in 44 th places with only four points.
And GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., the country’s leading scorer in the Turin Olympiad held early this year, finished with only three points after withdrawing in the sixth round due to health reasons.
The Singapore-based Sadorra provided one of the few bright spots for the Filipinos when he outclassed IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 37 moves of the Sicilian.
The 20-year old Sadorra, whose family migrated to Singapore five years ago, played decisively against Vakhidov to post one of the day’s inspiring triumphs and give the Filipinos something to cheer about.
Gonzales outwitted NM Oliver Barbosa, Senador defeated IM Richard Bitoon, Bancod downed Mariano and Ranola won by default over paraplegic Sander Severino to join Sadorra in the money list with six points.
WIM Beverly Mendoza halved the point with FM Roderick Nava to emerge as the highest-placed female player with 4.5 points.
WNM Enerose Magno won over Merben Roque to tie Mendoza with 4.5 points. Magno, however, settled for second place after the tiebreak.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao finished third with four points.
A big disappointment was Severino, the multiple gold medalist in the recent Para Games held early this year.
Severino, the 21-year old native of Silay City who earned a lot of respect by beating Torre in the seventh round, failed to arrive in time and defaulted his match to Laylo.
Pengxiang Grabs Solo Chess Lead; Nouri, Dableo Stay Alive
Standings after eight rounds:1. Z. Pengxiang (China) 6.5 points; 2-6 A. Onischuk (US), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), Z. Zhong (China), R. Dableo (RP), H. Nouri (RP) 6; 7-11 C. Garma (RP), V. Akobian (US), N. Hua (China), W. Rui (China), Z.Zhou (China) 5.5; 12-24 W. So (RP), M. Paragua (RP), N. Mariano (RP), D. Laylo (RP), V. Belov (Russia), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), O. Barbosa (RP) , Y. Ranola (RP) , J. Gonzales (RP) , J. Sadorra (RP), R. Bitoon (RP) , R. Bancod (RP), E. Senador (RP), R. Tolentino (RP) 5.
Ninth-round pairings: (white player first ) Z. Zhong (China) vs Z. Pengxiang (China) ; R. Dableo (RP) vs. A. Onischuk (US) ; V. Mikhalevski (Israel) vs. H. Nouri (RP) ; W. Zhou (China) vs. N. Hua (China) ; V. Akobian (US) vs. C. Garma (RP); W. Rui (China) vs. M. Paragua (RP) ; W. So (RP) vs. V. Belov (Russia); J. Sadorra (RP) vs. T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan); S. Severino (RP) vs. D. Laylo (RP) ; R. Bitoon (RP) vs. E. Senador (RP) ; R. Bancod (RP) vs. N. Mariano (RP) ; J. Gonzales (RP) vs. O. Barbosa (RP) ; Y. Ranola (RP) vs. R. Tolentino (RP) ; O. Dimakiling (RP) vs. W. Li (China); J. de Ramos (RP) vs. R. Nolte RP).
LITTLE-known Hamed Nouri of the Philippines authored the biggest upset win in the tournament by beating GM Vladimir Belov of Russia in their keenly-watched encounter, even as second GM Zhang Pengxiang of China grabbed the solo lead with a masterful win over GM Varuzhan Akobian of United States in the eighth and penultimate round of the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Nouri, who made his presence felt with back-to-back victories over GMs Rogelio Antonio Jr. and Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor in the sixth and seventh rounds, claimed the scalp of sixth-ranked Belov to become one of two Filipinos still in contention for the top prize of US $ 6,000 (P300,000).
Nouri, known n the local chess circle as the "Pinoy Kasparov" for his resemblance with the former world champion from Russia.
"Swerte. Gagawin ko ang lahat ng aking makakaya para makatapos ng maganda dito," said Nouri, a former collegiate standout form West Negros College whose campaign is being supported by Mayor Santiago Barceloan and Bro. Rolly Dizon of La Salle.
The win put the 28-year old pride of Escalante, Negros Occidental in a tie for second to sixth places with compatriot and Asian Games-bound IM Ronald Dableo, top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States, GM Victor Mikhalevski of Israel, GMs Ni Hau and Zhang Zhong and IM Wang Rui of China and Akobian.
Dableo, who is seeking the second of three GM norms, vented his ire on former national junior campaigner Oliver Barbosa in 31 moves of the Slav only a few hours after allowing GM NI Hau of Chan to escape with a draw in their seventh-round encounter earlier in the day.
Pengxiang, the fourth highest-rated player in China with an ELO of 2636, outduelled Akobian to assume the solo lead with 6.5 points out of a possible eight in the prestigious nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr.
Onischuk, who ruled the US Championship last March, and Mikhalevski drew their match at the top board.
Hua and Zhong also halved the point in an all-Chinese match.
Rui, ranked 13 th overall, stopped the giant-killing run of Para Games gold medalist and paraplegic Sander Severino in 39 moves of the Slav.
Severino, who rose to prominence by winning five gold medals in the Para Games held last year, failed to handle the pressure this time and yielded to Rui in 39 moves of yet another Slav encounter.
The 21-year-old native of Silay City earlier stole the limelight by racking up three wins, including an ego-boosting seventh-round triumph over Asia’s fist GM Eugene Torre.
Veteran campaigner Chito Garma also barged into the elite circle by humbling fellow IM Oliver Dimakiling to forge a five-way tie for seventh to 11 th places with 4.5 points.
With Garma are Akobian and Chinese players Hua, Rui and Zhong.
Teen sensation Wesley So and IM Darwin Laylo also drew their match to lead a big group of players with five points.
With So and Laylo are GMs Mark Paragua and Nelson Mariano II, Barbosa, Severino, IMs Jayson Gonzales, Richard Bitoon Yves Ranola and Ronald Bancod, NM Emmanuel Senador, Rustum Tolentino and Julio Sadorra.
Paragua drew with Ranola, Mariano bested NM Mirabeau Maga, Goznales halved the poitnwith IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan, Bitoon overpowered Dr. Jenny Mayor, Bancod toppled GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor, Senador subdued FM Roderick Nava and Tolentio outsteadied NM Petronio Roca. Sadorra also stole the limelight by dealing the 55-year odl Torre his second setback for the day. In other eight-round results, NM Adrian Pacis defeated Im Barlo Nadera, John Paul Gomez whipped Kamil Rzoska of Poland, Wang Li overwhelmed Rhoebl Legaspi, Anthony Makinano trounced WFM Liu Yang of China, Efren Bagamasbad outplayed WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao, Catherine Perena downed Ramon Manon-og, Alfredo Paez stopped Richard de la Cruz, Rolando Yutuc repulsed Nelson Villanueva Jr. , Ibaryu Adante ripped Quirino Sagario and Dandel Fernandez dumped Loreshyl Cuizon, and Kimberly Jane Cunanan surprised Jedara Docena.
In the Challenger Division, Arlan Cabe overwhelmed erstwhile solo leader Allan Cantonjos and Edsel Montoya downed Raymond Salcedo to share the lead and boost their chances for the top prize of US $1,000.
Both Cabe and Montoya now have seven points out of a possible eight.
Cantonjos remained in third place with 6.5 points.
Rodolfo Diaz whipped De Leon Marohom Jr., Ali Branzuela bested Christian Arroyo, Noel de la Cruz stopped Marlon Ricafort to share fourth to sixth places with six points.
Verth Alora outduelled Paolo Florendo and Ric Portogalera dumped Rich Salcedo to lead a big group of 5.5 pointers.
Other eight-round Chalenger winners were Robert Arellano, Chris Castellano, Allan Macala, Chris Rodriguez, Andrew Vasquez, Allan Sasot, Christopher Castellano,. , Glicerio Pardillo Jr., Ed Agagon, Garry Garcia, Carmelita Abanes, Josephine Berago, Marion Ilagan, Marc Nazario, Leo Ricana, Franz Barreto, Robert Francsico and Kaye Anne Legaspi.
Last Round BIG-Time boo-boos!
From The Closet Grandmaster's Post:
"Eugene Torre losses by default. He forgot that the last round began at 1PM and not 3PM!!!! Same thing happened to Severino"
-----------------------------------------------------------------
What a way to end. Argh!
Anyways, an account of Severino's first round performance:
- His first round game against a fellow pinoy with an FM title, I guess, is the best DRAWN game I've seen yet in my baby chess life. He was handling black pieces and was really down to K+R+R while his enemy pieces were up by 3 P's, 2 R's and a dark squared Bishop. Everyone who's watching that game would give a glance to another on-looker and ask "what happened there?" Doc Jenny, when he saw the position asked me "bakit na zugzwang?" (why did it reach a zugzwang position?) and all I can say was "the white player captured and fell into Severino's trap"
The news would call him "The GM Killer". The first time I saw him, I knew he would make a name for himself but did not expect it to be very soon. It's like watching a David & Goliath match.
Were proud of you!
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Bloated Ego of Chess Players
Hi there guys!
I have observed a lot of chess players to have this universe-wide ego with them and this is the main reason why I'm bringing out my paper and pencil plus a little of my research skill to conduct a Study on The Relationship of Psychological Conditions and Chess. I really hope I could come up with an objectively researched results.
I took up chess in 2003 to occupy my boredom and somehow it brought me to a situation where I want to make something out of what Chess really is. I can say that I play around 1500+ and I am contented with it. Very happy with it!! As long as I use my time wisely by playing chess, teaching chess among my students and of course, playing chess with my wife and young kids. It frustrates me so much whenever I get to meet players (mostly locals) and actually talk to them, try to connect, and all I get are those nonsensical blurbings of how chess should be played, how he is much better than the others etc. It gets me to think twice whether I would escort my kids into chess or look for another sport.
Just this week, the ever expansive ego of this player made me shiver and chill, literally as what my friend Boyet told me after the incident. We were in this place, with Boyet, we were posting some CAAP (Chess Arbiters Association of the Philippines) announcements in our NCFP Forum when this poor little fellow (poor because I pity him, but very rich ego, as in a zillionaire) came in, gave me really this who-are-you-and-what-are-you-doing-here-look and said? "Who are you? are you with this _________ company?" and I said, "sir no, I'm with Sir Boyet". Then he looked at me again, stared at the screen I'm working on and said "Don't you know me? I am "_____________________" I am also a National Master!"
It really felt strange for me. The years I spent dealing with Persons With Special Needs didn't help at all. Not to mention the million of hours it took me to earn the passing grades for my 60 units in Psychology Subjects in College and Graduate School. Yes, not even the work related hours I've logged in to better understand the Human Soul. I have worked for the last 6 years mostly in multi-cultural settings (teaching in international schools would give me that chance) and I have always felt that the Europeans maybe a snub but their sincere, Americans are cerebral and tend to be level headed with a smile of boastfulness, but this guy, He is really a specimen. Someone we can study inside the laboratory and learn all about ego from skin down inside. Yes, he's the man!
Right at that moment, I wanted to feed his ego all the more, but I guess he's really THE ONE because after declaring and flaunting his title, he didn't look at me at all, not at all. Manners!
NM ____________, may the force emanating from you come back to you. May all the glory you long for be directed to those who deserve it and be given only to those who can handle such titles.
I know he's just a drop in the bucket. But he happened to have demonstrated his skills to me, which is why I find him the subject, yes, The Subject.
Watch out for the results of the study... if ever I survive the choking ego of such people. I pray that I don't get run over by these people's personality disorders/conditions.
Want a hint who this guy is?
The guy looked like one of my students in my MR/Down's Syndrome Sped Class!
I have observed a lot of chess players to have this universe-wide ego with them and this is the main reason why I'm bringing out my paper and pencil plus a little of my research skill to conduct a Study on The Relationship of Psychological Conditions and Chess. I really hope I could come up with an objectively researched results.
I took up chess in 2003 to occupy my boredom and somehow it brought me to a situation where I want to make something out of what Chess really is. I can say that I play around 1500+ and I am contented with it. Very happy with it!! As long as I use my time wisely by playing chess, teaching chess among my students and of course, playing chess with my wife and young kids. It frustrates me so much whenever I get to meet players (mostly locals) and actually talk to them, try to connect, and all I get are those nonsensical blurbings of how chess should be played, how he is much better than the others etc. It gets me to think twice whether I would escort my kids into chess or look for another sport.
Just this week, the ever expansive ego of this player made me shiver and chill, literally as what my friend Boyet told me after the incident. We were in this place, with Boyet, we were posting some CAAP (Chess Arbiters Association of the Philippines) announcements in our NCFP Forum when this poor little fellow (poor because I pity him, but very rich ego, as in a zillionaire) came in, gave me really this who-are-you-and-what-are-you-doing-here-look and said? "Who are you? are you with this _________ company?" and I said, "sir no, I'm with Sir Boyet". Then he looked at me again, stared at the screen I'm working on and said "Don't you know me? I am "_____________________" I am also a National Master!"
It really felt strange for me. The years I spent dealing with Persons With Special Needs didn't help at all. Not to mention the million of hours it took me to earn the passing grades for my 60 units in Psychology Subjects in College and Graduate School. Yes, not even the work related hours I've logged in to better understand the Human Soul. I have worked for the last 6 years mostly in multi-cultural settings (teaching in international schools would give me that chance) and I have always felt that the Europeans maybe a snub but their sincere, Americans are cerebral and tend to be level headed with a smile of boastfulness, but this guy, He is really a specimen. Someone we can study inside the laboratory and learn all about ego from skin down inside. Yes, he's the man!
Right at that moment, I wanted to feed his ego all the more, but I guess he's really THE ONE because after declaring and flaunting his title, he didn't look at me at all, not at all. Manners!
NM ____________, may the force emanating from you come back to you. May all the glory you long for be directed to those who deserve it and be given only to those who can handle such titles.
I know he's just a drop in the bucket. But he happened to have demonstrated his skills to me, which is why I find him the subject, yes, The Subject.
Watch out for the results of the study... if ever I survive the choking ego of such people. I pray that I don't get run over by these people's personality disorders/conditions.
Want a hint who this guy is?
The guy looked like one of my students in my MR/Down's Syndrome Sped Class!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Correspondence Chess
Online Correspondence chess has caught up with me. I discovered this really instructive form of chess game the latter part of year 2005 and somehow, it's only now that I feel am getting serious about it. For one, I had this really bad game which made me realize the power of studying every details of Correspondence Chess Games that I play. I had this game, I was up by 2 pawns and a knight. Since I usually am the one to invite my opponent, I thought I was playing the settings which I am used to.Time bank (the amount of time one is given to move which lasts from 1 day to a month or more etc.) is the most important detail in correspondence chess. For 5 days during the monday to friday working days, we exchanged moves in dizzying speed. Friday came and I made my move before shutting down my PC and starting my weekend with my wife and kids completely forgetting everything for two days.
Came Monday and I went straight to my PC and checked my emails. Yes! I open my chess emails first before my work related emails... (sorry! I need to get a quick-fix before I start my day) to my frustration, I opened this email notification saying I lost this game against this guy... reason? My Time Bank run out! Whoa! I emailed the guy and told him that I didn't know the time bank was that short. Sadly, results are recorded automatically so there's no use in trying to explain or argue. The next wise move? challenge the guy to another game and this time, I'd configure the game settings myself. Poor me! he didn't want to play with me anymore and until now, I still feel the pain of that lose.
So much for whining! What really is the status of Correspondence Chess? is it booming? if you ask me, I'd say yes: ONLINE! I cannot answer for the OLD SCHOOL CHESS MAIL SYSTEM.
Correspondence chess, that discipline inducing form of chess. Study habits are formed over time and not in an instant.
Anyone wants to play with me?
Came Monday and I went straight to my PC and checked my emails. Yes! I open my chess emails first before my work related emails... (sorry! I need to get a quick-fix before I start my day) to my frustration, I opened this email notification saying I lost this game against this guy... reason? My Time Bank run out! Whoa! I emailed the guy and told him that I didn't know the time bank was that short. Sadly, results are recorded automatically so there's no use in trying to explain or argue. The next wise move? challenge the guy to another game and this time, I'd configure the game settings myself. Poor me! he didn't want to play with me anymore and until now, I still feel the pain of that lose.
So much for whining! What really is the status of Correspondence Chess? is it booming? if you ask me, I'd say yes: ONLINE! I cannot answer for the OLD SCHOOL CHESS MAIL SYSTEM.
Correspondence chess, that discipline inducing form of chess. Study habits are formed over time and not in an instant.
Anyone wants to play with me?
NCFP Calendar of Events for 2007
January 8-14
Philippine Olympic Festival
(Mindanao Division)
Lanao del Sur
January 22-28
Philippine Olympic Festival
(Visayas Division)
Antique
February 5-11
Philippine Olympic Festival
(Bicol/Tagalog Division)
Camarines Sur
February 26-March 4
Philippine Olympic Festival
(North/Central Luzon/CAR Division)
Ilocos Sur
March 11-18
Philippine International Open Chess Championship
$ 40,000.00
Subic, Olongapo City
March 19-25
Philippine Olympic Festival
QC/Taguig/Marikina
April 1-7
Inter-cities/municipalities Chess Team Championship
Tagaytay City
April 12-16
National Age Group
Manila, NCFP Sec-Gen
April 19-23
National Juniors
Manila
June 1-8
Senate President Manny Villar Cup International Open Chess Championship
$ 15,000.00
August 1-9
Asian Championship
(International Event)
Manila Hotel
August 13-17
4th prospero Pichay Sr. Memorial Cup
Surigao del Sur
September 3-9
Philippine Olympic Festival
(National Championship, Finals)
Manila
September 20-27
Speaker De Venecia Cup International Chess Championship
&15,000.00
October 26-31
Inter-province Chess Team Championship
November 10-17
2nd Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge
$30,000.00
December 18-22
3rd Prospero Pichay Jr open Chess Championship
$10,000.00
Manila
Get ready for a busy year!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
GM Joey Antonio Quits
GM Joey Antonio quits after round 6 due to sinusitis and fever. As what IA Willie Abalos, the tournament director "This morning, he really had a difficult time getting up from his bed and ordering his breakfast. After lunch, he was seen taking tremendous amount of medication for his condition".
1st GMA Cup Update
As of November 21, 2006, Courtesy of NCFP Official Website.
GMA Cup: So Draws With Chinese Rivals; Onischuk, Akobian Stay Ahead
Standings after five rounds: 1-2 A. Onischuk (USA), V. Akobian (USA) 4.5 points; 3-9 Z. Pengxiang (China), W. Rui (China), Z. Zhong (China), V. Belov (Russia), O. Barbosa (RP), R. Dableo (RP), D. Laylo (RP) 4; 10-20 W. So (RP), B. Villamayor (RP), W. Zhou (China), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), Y. Ranola (RP), S. Severino (RP), N. Hua (China), M. Paragua (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), R. Nolte (RP), V. Mikhalevski (Israel) 3.5. 21-32 E. Torre (RP), R. Antonio (RP), C. Garma (RP), B. Nadera (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), R. Bancod (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Legaspi (RP), R. Nava (RP), H. Nouri (RP) 3.
THE Philippines’ Wesley So managed to draw his matches against two highly-rated Chinese rivals to stay in the hunt for the elusive GM norm, even as top seed GM Alexander Onischuk and Varuzhan Akobian of the United States kept their frontrunning positions after the fifth round of the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paraanque City.
So, who is seeking his second GM norm in as many weeks, battled Turin Olympiad veteran and third seed GM Nia Hua of China to a draw in 44 moves of the Sicilian in the fourth round held earlier in the day then came back to split the point with Weiqi Zhou of China in 33 moves of the French to keep his hopes alive in this prestigious nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
So, a 13-year old freshman student of St. Francis of Assisi-Bacoor, who earned his first GM norm in Bad Wiessee, Germany only last week, now has two wins and three draws for 3.5 points, a full point behind Onischuk and Akobian with still four rounds remaining.
Onischuk outduelled GM Vladimir Belov of Russia in 30 moves of the Gruendfeld while Akobian subdued GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. in 34 moves of the Benoni in a pair of crucial fourth-round victories.
Onischuk and Akobian, who both played for the United States in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, then agreed to a draw in 27 moves of the Nimzo-Indian Defense in their fifth-round encounter to share the lead with 4.5 points.
Sharing the limelight were Asian Games-bound IMs Ronald Dableo and Darwin Laylo and former national junior champion Oliver Barbosa, who pulled off stunning upset victories over their higher-rated opponents late in the day.
The 27-year odl Dableo followed up his methodical fourth-round triumph over Anam Khairul of Indonesia with a dramatic upset win over Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre in 40 moves of the Reti.
Laylo, the 26-year old campaigner from Batangas, outlasted NM Emmanuel Senador in 63 moves of the Reti in the fourth round and then whipped Im Barlo Nadera in 63 moves of the Slav the following round.
And Barbosa, the 20-year old pride of Taytay, Rizal, dealt a second straight setback to Antonio in only 30 moves of the Sicilian. He also won over NM Rustum Tolentino in 36 moves of the English in the fourth round.
The back-to-back victories by the three Filipino youngsters enabled them to join second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China and three other foreign players in third to ninth places with four points. Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China with an ELO rating of 2636, drew with IM Victor Mikhalevski of Israel in the fourth round and compatriot IM Wang Rui of China in only six moves of the Queen’s Gambit.
Belov bounced back from the fourth-round setback to Onischuk with a hard-earned victory over iM Chito Garma in 55 moevs of the French, No. 4 GM Zhang Zhong of China downed Mikhalevski and Rui outclassed fellow IM Richard Bitoon in the fourth round before drawing with Pengxiang in the next round.
Also making his presence felt was NM Rolando Nolte, who halved the point with GM Mark Paragua in the fourth round and surprised GM Nelson Mariano II in the fifth round to boost his socre to 3.5 points.
Paragua also improved to 3.5 points by beating former junior champion John Paul Gomez in the fifth round late in the day.
Para Games gold medalist Sander Severino also continued his surprising run, beating NM
Petronio Roca in the fourth orudn and drawing with GM Buenaventura “Bong” Vilamayor in the fifth round for 3.5 points out of a possible five.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao drew with Ramon Manon-og to hike her score to two points, the same total of WIM Beverly Mendoza and Catherine Perena and Victoria Chan of Singapore.
Mendoza bowed to IM Ronald Bancod, while Perena succumbed to IM Jayson Gonzales.
Chan won over Christian Anthony Flores.
Other fifth-round winners were Bitoon, who demolished Merben Roque; Roca, who waylaid Boris Diez; IM Oliver Dimakiling, who crushed NM Rustum Tolentino; FM Julio Sadorra, who subdued Erwin Carag; FM Roderick Nava, who surprised Jenny Mayor; NM Adrian Pacis, who trounced Carl Victor Ochoa; Alfrdo Paz, who dumped Dandel Fernandez; Jan Emmanuel Garcia, who toppled Rodolfo Panopio Jr.; Rolando Yutuc, who nipped Leo Ausan; Richard de la Cruz, who overpowered Kamil Rzoska; and Robert Suelo, who overwhelmed Alex Dimaro.
At stake are cash prizes and trophies with the champion getting the lion’s share of US $6,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup. The runner-up and thre third placer will receive US 44,000 and US $3,000, respectively.
The fourth to 15 th placers will also get cash prizes, as well as the top three female and top three junior players.
Selected games of the GMA Cup Open and Chess Challenge can be viewed at the NCFP website at http://www.ncfphilippines.org/
GMA Cup: So Draws With Chinese Rivals; Onischuk, Akobian Stay Ahead
Standings after five rounds: 1-2 A. Onischuk (USA), V. Akobian (USA) 4.5 points; 3-9 Z. Pengxiang (China), W. Rui (China), Z. Zhong (China), V. Belov (Russia), O. Barbosa (RP), R. Dableo (RP), D. Laylo (RP) 4; 10-20 W. So (RP), B. Villamayor (RP), W. Zhou (China), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), Y. Ranola (RP), S. Severino (RP), N. Hua (China), M. Paragua (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), R. Nolte (RP), V. Mikhalevski (Israel) 3.5. 21-32 E. Torre (RP), R. Antonio (RP), C. Garma (RP), B. Nadera (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), R. Bancod (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), R. Legaspi (RP), R. Nava (RP), H. Nouri (RP) 3.
THE Philippines’ Wesley So managed to draw his matches against two highly-rated Chinese rivals to stay in the hunt for the elusive GM norm, even as top seed GM Alexander Onischuk and Varuzhan Akobian of the United States kept their frontrunning positions after the fifth round of the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paraanque City.
So, who is seeking his second GM norm in as many weeks, battled Turin Olympiad veteran and third seed GM Nia Hua of China to a draw in 44 moves of the Sicilian in the fourth round held earlier in the day then came back to split the point with Weiqi Zhou of China in 33 moves of the French to keep his hopes alive in this prestigious nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
So, a 13-year old freshman student of St. Francis of Assisi-Bacoor, who earned his first GM norm in Bad Wiessee, Germany only last week, now has two wins and three draws for 3.5 points, a full point behind Onischuk and Akobian with still four rounds remaining.
Onischuk outduelled GM Vladimir Belov of Russia in 30 moves of the Gruendfeld while Akobian subdued GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. in 34 moves of the Benoni in a pair of crucial fourth-round victories.
Onischuk and Akobian, who both played for the United States in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, then agreed to a draw in 27 moves of the Nimzo-Indian Defense in their fifth-round encounter to share the lead with 4.5 points.
Sharing the limelight were Asian Games-bound IMs Ronald Dableo and Darwin Laylo and former national junior champion Oliver Barbosa, who pulled off stunning upset victories over their higher-rated opponents late in the day.
The 27-year odl Dableo followed up his methodical fourth-round triumph over Anam Khairul of Indonesia with a dramatic upset win over Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre in 40 moves of the Reti.
Laylo, the 26-year old campaigner from Batangas, outlasted NM Emmanuel Senador in 63 moves of the Reti in the fourth round and then whipped Im Barlo Nadera in 63 moves of the Slav the following round.
And Barbosa, the 20-year old pride of Taytay, Rizal, dealt a second straight setback to Antonio in only 30 moves of the Sicilian. He also won over NM Rustum Tolentino in 36 moves of the English in the fourth round.
The back-to-back victories by the three Filipino youngsters enabled them to join second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China and three other foreign players in third to ninth places with four points. Pengxiang, ranked fourth overall in China with an ELO rating of 2636, drew with IM Victor Mikhalevski of Israel in the fourth round and compatriot IM Wang Rui of China in only six moves of the Queen’s Gambit.
Belov bounced back from the fourth-round setback to Onischuk with a hard-earned victory over iM Chito Garma in 55 moevs of the French, No. 4 GM Zhang Zhong of China downed Mikhalevski and Rui outclassed fellow IM Richard Bitoon in the fourth round before drawing with Pengxiang in the next round.
Also making his presence felt was NM Rolando Nolte, who halved the point with GM Mark Paragua in the fourth round and surprised GM Nelson Mariano II in the fifth round to boost his socre to 3.5 points.
Paragua also improved to 3.5 points by beating former junior champion John Paul Gomez in the fifth round late in the day.
Para Games gold medalist Sander Severino also continued his surprising run, beating NM
Petronio Roca in the fourth orudn and drawing with GM Buenaventura “Bong” Vilamayor in the fifth round for 3.5 points out of a possible five.
WFM Sherrie Joy Lomibao drew with Ramon Manon-og to hike her score to two points, the same total of WIM Beverly Mendoza and Catherine Perena and Victoria Chan of Singapore.
Mendoza bowed to IM Ronald Bancod, while Perena succumbed to IM Jayson Gonzales.
Chan won over Christian Anthony Flores.
Other fifth-round winners were Bitoon, who demolished Merben Roque; Roca, who waylaid Boris Diez; IM Oliver Dimakiling, who crushed NM Rustum Tolentino; FM Julio Sadorra, who subdued Erwin Carag; FM Roderick Nava, who surprised Jenny Mayor; NM Adrian Pacis, who trounced Carl Victor Ochoa; Alfrdo Paz, who dumped Dandel Fernandez; Jan Emmanuel Garcia, who toppled Rodolfo Panopio Jr.; Rolando Yutuc, who nipped Leo Ausan; Richard de la Cruz, who overpowered Kamil Rzoska; and Robert Suelo, who overwhelmed Alex Dimaro.
At stake are cash prizes and trophies with the champion getting the lion’s share of US $6,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup. The runner-up and thre third placer will receive US 44,000 and US $3,000, respectively.
The fourth to 15 th placers will also get cash prizes, as well as the top three female and top three junior players.
Selected games of the GMA Cup Open and Chess Challenge can be viewed at the NCFP website at http://www.ncfphilippines.org/
Nth try and hopefully, Forever!
Hi guys!
I am writing for the Nth time on my blog. Yes, as the title of this post say, my Nth try and hopefully, this will be for good. I mean, this Blog I recently created.
You see, I've created at least 13 blogsites for my unending wish and dream to put my thoughts, views and daily ways into writing but somehow, each time I create one, I either forget my password, my username and all the details I need for log in.
This time, I made sure I wont forget those infos though because I wrote them in my notebook... (why didn't anybody tell me this? hahahah)
So much for whining and hoping! On to business.
Today, Monday, November 20, 2006, is the 3rd day of the 1st GMA Cup. After a Sunday break to give way to the much anticipated to the last part of a TRILOGY between Pacquia-Morales Fight. As we all know by now, Pacquiao Won via a 3rd Round Knockout.
Going back, Round 4 starts by 9 am at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City. In the afternoon, Round 5 starts at 3pm and hopefully, I can make it there since I am two PUV (public utility vehicle) rides away from it, about 15 minute ride.
I was able to take photos of the 1st Round of the games last friday and I'll be posting them soon. Watch out for it.
I am writing for the Nth time on my blog. Yes, as the title of this post say, my Nth try and hopefully, this will be for good. I mean, this Blog I recently created.
You see, I've created at least 13 blogsites for my unending wish and dream to put my thoughts, views and daily ways into writing but somehow, each time I create one, I either forget my password, my username and all the details I need for log in.
This time, I made sure I wont forget those infos though because I wrote them in my notebook... (why didn't anybody tell me this? hahahah)
So much for whining and hoping! On to business.
Today, Monday, November 20, 2006, is the 3rd day of the 1st GMA Cup. After a Sunday break to give way to the much anticipated to the last part of a TRILOGY between Pacquia-Morales Fight. As we all know by now, Pacquiao Won via a 3rd Round Knockout.
Going back, Round 4 starts by 9 am at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City. In the afternoon, Round 5 starts at 3pm and hopefully, I can make it there since I am two PUV (public utility vehicle) rides away from it, about 15 minute ride.
I was able to take photos of the 1st Round of the games last friday and I'll be posting them soon. Watch out for it.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Compilation of 1st GMA Cup Press Releases
PGMA to Grace Chess Opening
PRESIDENT Arroyo takes time out from her busy schedule to play chess against super GM Alexander Onishuk of the United States during formal opening ceremony of the 2006 Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge today at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
President Arroyo, the country's No. 1 sports patron, and Onishuk will make the ceremonial moves during the 10 a.m. ceremony to be attended by top government and sports officials, invited guests and the participating foreign and local players.
Joining President Arroyo and Onishuk at center stage are National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez, Rep. Ed Zialcita, Paranaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr., NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Duty Free general manager Michael Kho and FIDE representative Toti Abundo.
The players’ meeting and the opening round will be held immediately after the ceremony.
"It's all systems go. The players, both local and foreign, are all ready to make the first move in this biggest international chess tournament to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay.
"With President Arroyo giving her full support, we see a good future for Philippine chess," added Pichay, who hopes to produce as many as five new GMs by next year.
A member of the United States team which finished third overall in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Onishuk is the highest-rated player n the tournament with an ELO of 2668.
In the United States, the 31-year old Onishuk is the second highest-rated player behind only fellow GM Gata Kamsky (ELO 2705). He was one of the leading scorers for the American team in the Turin Olympiad, posting four wins and six draws in 10 matches. One of his draws came against Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre in the second round.
Aside from Onishuk, the other top foreign players vying for the US $6,000 top prize Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
Torre, the country’s most experienced player, will spearhead the Filipinos’ challenge in the tough, nine-round tournament.
Also in the registry are GMs Mark Paragua, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca; NMs Mirabeua Maga, Mannny Senador and Anthony Makinano; Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.
At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home the lion’s share of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.
The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers, as well as the top three Filipinos, top three women and top three juniors.
Press Release 1
ONE of the biggest sporting events of the year -- the first Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup international chess tournament -- finally comes off the wraps on Nov 17 at the Duty Free near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
A project of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) , headed by Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay, the prestigious, nine-round tournament will be held in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.
No less than President Arroyo and Rep. Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during the colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m.
"With no less than President Arroyo gracing the opening ceremony and more than 10 foreign GMs taking part, the GMA Cup will easily be the biggest chess competition to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay, who is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the event.
"Through the GMA Cup and other international events lined up next year, such as the Sen. Manny Villar Cup and the Speaker De Venecia Cup, we expect to produce more world-class chess players in the near future," added Pichay, who also tapped Toti Abundo and Willie Abalos as tournament directors.
Among the foreign players who have already signified their intention to participate are GMs Ni HUa and Zhang Zhong of China, Utut Adianto and Edhi Handoko of Indonesia and WGM Maia Lominenisvili of Georgia.
Four other players from China and two from Vietnam are also expected to participate, along with several other strong players from Europe and the United States.
The Philippines’ challenge will be led by GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and upcoming Wesley So and John Paul Gomez.
At stake in the week-long competition are US$6,000 and trophy to the overall champion, US$4,000 and trophy to the runner-up and US$3,000 and trophy to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers.
The top three Filipino players, the top three women and the top three junior participants will also bring home cash prizes.
For more inquiries, call Willie Abalos at cell 0920-4871453 or visit the NCFP website at www.ncfphilippines.org
Press Release 2
GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).
Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.
Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.
The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.
Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.
At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home a whopping cash prize of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.
President Arroyo and NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during a colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m. on Nov. 17.
The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.
Press Release 3
GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).
Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.
Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.
The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.
Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.
Press Release 4
ADD GM Vladimir Belov , one of Russia's top players, to the list of foreign participants vying in the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Chess Challenge scheduled Nov 27-23 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque, Manila.
The entry of Belov (ELO 2589) is expected to further raise the level of competition in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay in honor of the country's No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.
"With several highly-rated GMs from the United States, China, Indonesia and now Russia in the registry, the GMA Cup will surely be one of the biggest international chess competitions to be held in the country," said Pichay.
Aside from Belov, the other foreign players coming are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States, Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China; GMs Utut Adanto 2589) and Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan.
The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, fast-rising Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.
Press Release 5
AFTER the sensational triumph of Ronnie Alcano in world billiards, Filipino chess players also hope to do well and bring honors to the country when the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup international chess tournament comes off the wraps on Friday, Nov. 17 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A brainchild of National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr. in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines, the prestigious seven-day tournament in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron is expected to attract close to 120 foreign and local players vying for the US $30,000 (P1.5 million).
President Arroyo will personally make the ceremonial moves with Pichay during the 10 a.m. opening ceremony.
Also invited during the opening rites are Department of Tourism Secretary Robert Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez and Duty Free general manager Michael Kho.
"Everything is ready. With the participation of highly-rated foreign players from Russia, the United States and other Asian countries and a whopping cash prize amounting to US $30,000, the GMA Cup will surely be the biggest international chess tournament in recent years," said Pichay during the formal launch at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall yesterday.
Also gracing the launching were NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, FIDE delegate Casto “Toti’ Abundo and tournament director Wilfredo Abalos.
Super GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States and Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636) of China head the list of foreign participants vying for the top purse of US $6,000.
Also in the registry are GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) of China, GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States, GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel, and GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, GM-candidate Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.
Press Release 6
WESLEY So will be one of the Filipino players to watch when the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge reels off tomorrow (Friday, Nov. 17) at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City.
So, who earned his first GM norm in the recent 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany last Nov. 12, is expected to bring his winning ways in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and sponsored by Duty Free Philippines, Dearborn Realty Corporation Cadbury Hersheys M&Ms Johnnie Walker Chivas Regal, Fundador and Tagaytay City.
"We expect Wesley to perform well in the GMA Cup and even earn another GM norm," said NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr.
"If we’re fortunate enough, we can have another GM - and even the world’s youngest GM -- next year. The NCFP is confident that Wesley can achieve this goal," added Pichay, who vowed to produce as many as five GMs right in his first year of office as head of the country’s governing body in chess.
In Bad Wiessee, So finished with five wins and four draws for seven points, the same score of compatriots GM-candidates Darwin Laylo and Oliver Dimakiling.
So (ELO 2411) posted five wins, including stunning back-to-back victories over GMs Michael Prusikin (ELO 2560) of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin (ELO 2559) of Russia in the fifth and sixth rounds.
The Bacoor, Cavite-based So also drew his last three assignments against GMs Vereslav Eingorn (ELO 2591) of Ukraine, Vladimir Epishin (ELO 2527) of Russia and Vladimir Goergiev (ELO 2532) of Macedonia.
His other victories came against Josef Strasser (ELO 2250), Gerha Niebergal (ELO 2139) and Sebastian Voelker (ELO 2250), all of host Germany. Among the foreign GMs seeing action in the GMA Cup are super GM Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States; GMs Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia; GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
The Philippines will be represented in the GMA Cup by its five GMs – Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenavenutra “Bong” Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.
Onischuk Leads GMA Chess Winners
TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.
Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted NM Sammy Estimo in 26 moves of the Sicilian.
Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. and comebacking Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.
Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.
The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.
The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.
No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.
Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; Nm John Paul Goemz, who nipped Jenny Mayor; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who ourtplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.
Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.
President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onischuk.
Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.
The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.
Onsichuk, Pengxiang lead GMA Cup Chess Winners (Update)
TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing with the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.
Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted veteran NM Sammy Estimo afteronly 26 moves of the Sicilian to join Onischuk and 32 other players in the early lead.
The day also belonged to little-known Rustum Tolentino, who stole the spotlight from his more illustrious countrymen by drawing with super GM Ni Hua of China.
The 24-year old campaigner from Cagayan de Oro City, however, missed the winning line under time pressure and allowed the third-seeded Chinese bet to heave a big sigh of relief and escape with a draw in 35 moves of the Sicilian.
Still, Tolentino’s surprisingly strong showing against his tough Chinese rival turned out to be the day’s biggest story.
Fourth seed GM Zhang Zhong of China humbled Rolando Yutuc, No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of United States overpowered Catherine Perena, No. 6 GM Vladimir Belov of Russia trounced Wang Li and No. 11 IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan nipped Rodolfo Panopio in other featured matches.
Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and comebacking Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; Mariano overpowered NM Efen Bagamasbad; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.
Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.
Also making their presence felt were GM-candidate Wesley So, who stopped Dandel Fernandez; and national junior champion John Paul Gomez, who defeated six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor.
The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.
The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.
No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.
Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who outplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.
In the Chess Challenge, Rodolfo Diaz Jr., Roel Abelgas, Julius Sinangote, Raymodn Salcedo and Edmundo Gatus led opening-day winners.
Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.
President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onishuk.
Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.
The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.
The moves of Pacis-Onischuk game:Bishop’s Opening1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3 Be7 5. 0-0 0-0 6. a3 d5 7. exd5 Nxd5 8. h3 Kh8 9. Nc3 Nxc3 10. bxc3 f5 11. Rb1 a6 12. d4 e4 13. Nh2 b5 14. Ba2 Na5 15. f3 Bb7 16. a4 bxa4 17. c4 exf3 18. Nxf3 Be4 19. d5 Rb8 20. Bd2 Nb7 21. Bc3 Bf6 22. Bb4 c5 23. Ba3 Qc7 24. Qd2 Nd6 25. Rxb8 Rxb8 26. Ng5 Bxg5 27. Qxg5 Bxc2 28. Re1 Ne4 29. Qf5 Qg3 30. Rf1 h6 31. Bc1 Nd2 32. Qxc2 Nxf1 33. Kxf1 Rf8+ 34. Kg1 Qe1+ 35. Kh2 Rf1
So topples Paragua; Onsichuk, Pengxiang Prevail
Standings after two rounds:1-16 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), Z. Zhong (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), W. So (RP), E. Torre (RP), R. Antonio (RP), D. Laylo (RP), R. Dableo (RP), W. Rui (China), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), W. Zhou (China), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP) 2 points; 17-20 N. Hua (China), R. Bitoon (RP), A. Makinano (RP), H. Nouri 1.5.
GM-candidate Wesley So provided the days’ s biggest surprise as he pulled off a stunning upset win over GM Mark Paragua, even as top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms in the second round of the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in the queen-rook-pawn endgame.
The win enabled Paragua to join Onischuk, Pengxiang and 13 other players with perfect scores of two points in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.
Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovitch, while Pengxiang whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in only 29 moves of the Sicilian.
Also hurdling their second-round assignments were No. 4 GM Zhang Zhong of China, who subdued IM Chito Garma in 60 moves of the Scotch; No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, who downed IM Yves Ranola; No. 6 Gm Vladimir Belov of Russia, who trounced NM Oliver Barbosa in in 48 moves of the Caro Kann; and GM Viktor Mikhalevski of Israel, who outclassed Nm Rolando Nolte.
Except for Paragua and Mariano II, the country’s three other GMS also won their r matches against their lower-rated opponents.
GM Eugene Torre outplayed FM Fernie Donguines, GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra, and GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor overwhelmed Nelson Villanueva Jr.
NM Emmanuel Senador outwitted IM Oliver Dimakiling and IM Ronald Dableo humbled Richard de la Cruz to join the elite group of two-pointers.
Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.
Four other foreign players won their matches against their Filipino rivals.
Wang Rui of China overwhelmed FM Mirabeau Maga, Weiqi Zhou of China stopped upset-conscious Ramon Manon-og, Victoria Chan of Singapore surprised NM Sammy Estimo and Kamil Rzoska of Poland downed Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena.
The only foreign casualty was Wang Li of Chia, who was ambushed by NM Efren Bagamasbad.
In other results, IM Barlo Nadera stopped Loreshyl Cuizon, six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor whipped Enerose Magno, WIM Beverly Mendoza overpowered Christian Flores, Catherine Perena toppled Leo Ausan, Julius de Ramos nipped Erwin Carag, and Robert Suelo clipped Jan Emmanuel Garcia.
The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bringhome th elion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.
Onischuk, 5 others share lead; So shocks Paragua
Standings after three rounds:1-6 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio Jr. (RP) 3 points; 7-11 W. So (RP), Z.,Zhong (China), W. Rui (China), E. Torre (RP), R. Bitoon (RP) 2.5; 12-33 N. Hua (China), A. Makinano (RP), M. Paragua (RP), F. Donguines (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), B. Mendoza (RP), D. Laylo (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), R. Dableo (RP), W. Zhou (China), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP), C. Garma (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), O. Babrosa (RP), R. Nolte (RP), B. Nadera (RP), R. Bancod (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), S. Severino (RP), A. Khairul (Ina), R. Tolentino (RP) 2.
WESLEY So provided the days’ s biggest surprise, beating GM Mark Paragua in the second round and drawing with GM Eugene Torre in the third to boost his chances for his second GM norm in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in a queen-rook-pawn endgame.
It was So’s first career victory over Paragua, at 22 the country's highest-rated player.
Then, So held the 55-year-old Torre to a draw with the white pieces after only 26 moves of a Bishop’s Opening to remain in contention with 2.5 points out of a possible three in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms and racked up back-to-back victories to lead four other players with perfect scores of three points.
Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovich in the second round and IM Darwin Laylo in 40 moves of another Nimzo in the third.
Pengxiang, ranked No. 4 in China with an ELO of 2636, whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in 29 moves of the Sicilian in the second round and IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 43 moves of the Dutch.
NO. 10 seed GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player in the lead with three points.
Also with perfect scores of three points were GMs Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, Vladimir Belov of Russia and Victor Mikhalevski of Israel.
No. 5 Akobian downed IM Yves Ranola in the second round and Im Ronald Dableo in the third round, No. 6 Belov trounced NM Oliver Barbosa and Weiqi Zhou of China and No. 8 Mikhalevski outclassed NM Rolando Nolte and GM Bong Villamayor.
Joining So and Torre in a five-way tie for seventh to 11th places were GM Zhang Zhong and IM Wang Rui, both of China, who drew their match after only nine moves of the Pirc; and IM Richard Bitoon, who beat Hamed Nouri.
Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.
Hua was held to another draw in the third round, this time by Palawan Open champion NM Anthony Makinano of Cebu.
Sharing the limelight in the third round was Turin Olympiad veteran WIM Beverly Mendoza, who shocked Gonzales in 43 moves of the Dutch to remain as the highest-placed female player with two points.
Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena outsteadied NM Sammy Estimo to finally barge into the win column after two losses.
Other third-round winners were Paragua, who downed Catherine Perena; IM Oliver Dimakiling, who nipped Kamil Rzoska of Poland; NM Oliver Babrosa, who trounced Victoria Chan of Singapore; Sander Severino, who toppled NM Miranbau Maga; NM Petronio Roca, who stopped WFM Liu Yang of China; Adrian Pacis , who beat Dande Fernandez; and Erwin Carag, who humbled Edmundo Legaspi.
The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bring home the lion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.
So Faces Tough Chinese GM
Standings after three rounds:1-6 A.Onischuk (USA), Z.Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V.Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio (RP) 3 points; 7-11 Z. Zhong (China), E. Torre (RP), W. Rui (China), R. Bitoon (RP), W. So (RP) 2.5.
GM-candidate Wesley So faces his biggest test yet when he meets third seed GM Ni Hua of China in the fourth round of the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque today (Nov. 20).
Buoyed by his upset win over GM Mark Paragua in the second round and a draw with GM Eugene Torre in the third round, the 13-year old So gets a chance to play his first foreign rival in the prestigious nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and Duty Free Philippines in honor of President Arroyo.
So, who earned his first GM norm in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, will play the disadvantageous black pieces against Hua.
A member of the Chinese team which finished runner-up in the 37th World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Hua was held to a draw in two of his first three assignments by Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro in the first round and Anthony Makinano of Cebu in the third round.
GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. also gets his first opportunity against a foreign rival when he takes on fifth seed GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States in another keenly-awaited encoubter.
Antonio racked up three straight victories over WIM Beverly Mendoza, FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player still in the lead pack with a perfect score of three points.
The 42-year old Antonio will play black against Akobian, the 23-year old American who swept his first three matches against Catherine Perena, IM Yves Ranola and IM Ronald Dableo.
In the other featured matches at center stage, top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States battles sixth seed GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and No. 2 GM Wang Pengxiang of China plays No. 8 GM Alexander Mikhalevski of Israel.
Onischuk, who won the US Championship last March and now ranked second in the US behind only GM Gata Kamsky with an ELO rating of 2668, had easy time against NM Adrian Pacis, IM Jayson Gonzales and IM Darwin Laylo.
Torre, at 55 still the country’s most-experienced player in the international front, tests the mettle of GM Zhang Zhong of China, while IM Richard Bitoon trades moves with IM Wang Rui of China. GM Nelson Mariano II, the country’s fifth GM in the registry, will try to recover lost ground when he faces NM Rodolfo Panopio Jr. After hurdling his opening-day assignment against NM Efren Bagamasbad, Mariano lost to Pengxiang in the second round and settled for a draw with Julius de Ramos in the third round.
In other featured fourth-round matches, it will be Paragua against NM Rolando Nolte, IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan against FM Fernie Donguines, IM Barlo Nadera against IM Oliver Dimakiling, Senador against Laylo, Zhou Weiqi of China against IM Ronald Bancod, GM Buenavetura “Bong” Villamayor against Sadorra, Anam Khairul of Indonesia against Dableo, IM Chito Garma against Makinano and Mendoza against Ranola.
Paragua kept his hopes alive despite the stunning second-round setback to So by hurdling Perena in the third round, while Donguines barely stayed in the upper half of the standings by outlasting NM Richard de la Cruz in their marathon four-hour showdown.
Mendoza, a veteran of the Turin Olympiad, will also seek a fitting follow-up to her morale-boosting third-round upset win over Gonzales to boost her chances for the top consolation prize in the female category.
WFM Sherry Joy Lomibao will play national junior champion John Paul Gomez while Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena will tackle Wang Li of China in other crucial matches.
Tournament director is Wilie Abalos, while the chief arbiter is Toti Abundo.
At stake in the week-long competition which ends Nov. 24 are US $6,000 and the coveted GMA Cup for the champion, US $4,000 to the runner-up and US $3,000 to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to the 15th placers, as well as the top three finishers in the female and junior categories.
+ Courtesy of NCFP official website.
PRESIDENT Arroyo takes time out from her busy schedule to play chess against super GM Alexander Onishuk of the United States during formal opening ceremony of the 2006 Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge today at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
President Arroyo, the country's No. 1 sports patron, and Onishuk will make the ceremonial moves during the 10 a.m. ceremony to be attended by top government and sports officials, invited guests and the participating foreign and local players.
Joining President Arroyo and Onishuk at center stage are National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez, Rep. Ed Zialcita, Paranaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr., NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Duty Free general manager Michael Kho and FIDE representative Toti Abundo.
The players’ meeting and the opening round will be held immediately after the ceremony.
"It's all systems go. The players, both local and foreign, are all ready to make the first move in this biggest international chess tournament to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay.
"With President Arroyo giving her full support, we see a good future for Philippine chess," added Pichay, who hopes to produce as many as five new GMs by next year.
A member of the United States team which finished third overall in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Onishuk is the highest-rated player n the tournament with an ELO of 2668.
In the United States, the 31-year old Onishuk is the second highest-rated player behind only fellow GM Gata Kamsky (ELO 2705). He was one of the leading scorers for the American team in the Turin Olympiad, posting four wins and six draws in 10 matches. One of his draws came against Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre in the second round.
Aside from Onishuk, the other top foreign players vying for the US $6,000 top prize Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
Torre, the country’s most experienced player, will spearhead the Filipinos’ challenge in the tough, nine-round tournament.
Also in the registry are GMs Mark Paragua, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca; NMs Mirabeua Maga, Mannny Senador and Anthony Makinano; Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.
At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home the lion’s share of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.
The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers, as well as the top three Filipinos, top three women and top three juniors.
Press Release 1
ONE of the biggest sporting events of the year -- the first Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup international chess tournament -- finally comes off the wraps on Nov 17 at the Duty Free near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
A project of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) , headed by Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay, the prestigious, nine-round tournament will be held in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.
No less than President Arroyo and Rep. Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during the colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m.
"With no less than President Arroyo gracing the opening ceremony and more than 10 foreign GMs taking part, the GMA Cup will easily be the biggest chess competition to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay, who is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the event.
"Through the GMA Cup and other international events lined up next year, such as the Sen. Manny Villar Cup and the Speaker De Venecia Cup, we expect to produce more world-class chess players in the near future," added Pichay, who also tapped Toti Abundo and Willie Abalos as tournament directors.
Among the foreign players who have already signified their intention to participate are GMs Ni HUa and Zhang Zhong of China, Utut Adianto and Edhi Handoko of Indonesia and WGM Maia Lominenisvili of Georgia.
Four other players from China and two from Vietnam are also expected to participate, along with several other strong players from Europe and the United States.
The Philippines’ challenge will be led by GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and upcoming Wesley So and John Paul Gomez.
At stake in the week-long competition are US$6,000 and trophy to the overall champion, US$4,000 and trophy to the runner-up and US$3,000 and trophy to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers.
The top three Filipino players, the top three women and the top three junior participants will also bring home cash prizes.
For more inquiries, call Willie Abalos at cell 0920-4871453 or visit the NCFP website at www.ncfphilippines.org
Press Release 2
GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).
Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.
Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.
The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.
Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.
At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home a whopping cash prize of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.
President Arroyo and NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during a colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m. on Nov. 17.
The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.
Press Release 3
GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).
Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.
Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.
The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.
Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.
Press Release 4
ADD GM Vladimir Belov , one of Russia's top players, to the list of foreign participants vying in the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Chess Challenge scheduled Nov 27-23 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque, Manila.
The entry of Belov (ELO 2589) is expected to further raise the level of competition in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay in honor of the country's No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.
"With several highly-rated GMs from the United States, China, Indonesia and now Russia in the registry, the GMA Cup will surely be one of the biggest international chess competitions to be held in the country," said Pichay.
Aside from Belov, the other foreign players coming are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States, Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China; GMs Utut Adanto 2589) and Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan.
The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, fast-rising Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.
Press Release 5
AFTER the sensational triumph of Ronnie Alcano in world billiards, Filipino chess players also hope to do well and bring honors to the country when the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup international chess tournament comes off the wraps on Friday, Nov. 17 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A brainchild of National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr. in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines, the prestigious seven-day tournament in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron is expected to attract close to 120 foreign and local players vying for the US $30,000 (P1.5 million).
President Arroyo will personally make the ceremonial moves with Pichay during the 10 a.m. opening ceremony.
Also invited during the opening rites are Department of Tourism Secretary Robert Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez and Duty Free general manager Michael Kho.
"Everything is ready. With the participation of highly-rated foreign players from Russia, the United States and other Asian countries and a whopping cash prize amounting to US $30,000, the GMA Cup will surely be the biggest international chess tournament in recent years," said Pichay during the formal launch at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall yesterday.
Also gracing the launching were NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, FIDE delegate Casto “Toti’ Abundo and tournament director Wilfredo Abalos.
Super GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States and Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636) of China head the list of foreign participants vying for the top purse of US $6,000.
Also in the registry are GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) of China, GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States, GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel, and GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, GM-candidate Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.
Press Release 6
WESLEY So will be one of the Filipino players to watch when the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge reels off tomorrow (Friday, Nov. 17) at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City.
So, who earned his first GM norm in the recent 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany last Nov. 12, is expected to bring his winning ways in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and sponsored by Duty Free Philippines, Dearborn Realty Corporation Cadbury Hersheys M&Ms Johnnie Walker Chivas Regal, Fundador and Tagaytay City.
"We expect Wesley to perform well in the GMA Cup and even earn another GM norm," said NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr.
"If we’re fortunate enough, we can have another GM - and even the world’s youngest GM -- next year. The NCFP is confident that Wesley can achieve this goal," added Pichay, who vowed to produce as many as five GMs right in his first year of office as head of the country’s governing body in chess.
In Bad Wiessee, So finished with five wins and four draws for seven points, the same score of compatriots GM-candidates Darwin Laylo and Oliver Dimakiling.
So (ELO 2411) posted five wins, including stunning back-to-back victories over GMs Michael Prusikin (ELO 2560) of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin (ELO 2559) of Russia in the fifth and sixth rounds.
The Bacoor, Cavite-based So also drew his last three assignments against GMs Vereslav Eingorn (ELO 2591) of Ukraine, Vladimir Epishin (ELO 2527) of Russia and Vladimir Goergiev (ELO 2532) of Macedonia.
His other victories came against Josef Strasser (ELO 2250), Gerha Niebergal (ELO 2139) and Sebastian Voelker (ELO 2250), all of host Germany. Among the foreign GMs seeing action in the GMA Cup are super GM Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States; GMs Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia; GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
The Philippines will be represented in the GMA Cup by its five GMs – Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenavenutra “Bong” Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.
Onischuk Leads GMA Chess Winners
TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.
Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted NM Sammy Estimo in 26 moves of the Sicilian.
Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. and comebacking Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.
Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.
The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.
The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.
No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.
Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; Nm John Paul Goemz, who nipped Jenny Mayor; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who ourtplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.
Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.
President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onischuk.
Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.
The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.
Onsichuk, Pengxiang lead GMA Cup Chess Winners (Update)
TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing with the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.
Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted veteran NM Sammy Estimo afteronly 26 moves of the Sicilian to join Onischuk and 32 other players in the early lead.
The day also belonged to little-known Rustum Tolentino, who stole the spotlight from his more illustrious countrymen by drawing with super GM Ni Hua of China.
The 24-year old campaigner from Cagayan de Oro City, however, missed the winning line under time pressure and allowed the third-seeded Chinese bet to heave a big sigh of relief and escape with a draw in 35 moves of the Sicilian.
Still, Tolentino’s surprisingly strong showing against his tough Chinese rival turned out to be the day’s biggest story.
Fourth seed GM Zhang Zhong of China humbled Rolando Yutuc, No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of United States overpowered Catherine Perena, No. 6 GM Vladimir Belov of Russia trounced Wang Li and No. 11 IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan nipped Rodolfo Panopio in other featured matches.
Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and comebacking Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; Mariano overpowered NM Efen Bagamasbad; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.
Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.
Also making their presence felt were GM-candidate Wesley So, who stopped Dandel Fernandez; and national junior champion John Paul Gomez, who defeated six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor.
The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.
The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.
No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.
Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who outplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.
In the Chess Challenge, Rodolfo Diaz Jr., Roel Abelgas, Julius Sinangote, Raymodn Salcedo and Edmundo Gatus led opening-day winners.
Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.
President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onishuk.
Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.
The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.
The moves of Pacis-Onischuk game:Bishop’s Opening1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3 Be7 5. 0-0 0-0 6. a3 d5 7. exd5 Nxd5 8. h3 Kh8 9. Nc3 Nxc3 10. bxc3 f5 11. Rb1 a6 12. d4 e4 13. Nh2 b5 14. Ba2 Na5 15. f3 Bb7 16. a4 bxa4 17. c4 exf3 18. Nxf3 Be4 19. d5 Rb8 20. Bd2 Nb7 21. Bc3 Bf6 22. Bb4 c5 23. Ba3 Qc7 24. Qd2 Nd6 25. Rxb8 Rxb8 26. Ng5 Bxg5 27. Qxg5 Bxc2 28. Re1 Ne4 29. Qf5 Qg3 30. Rf1 h6 31. Bc1 Nd2 32. Qxc2 Nxf1 33. Kxf1 Rf8+ 34. Kg1 Qe1+ 35. Kh2 Rf1
So topples Paragua; Onsichuk, Pengxiang Prevail
Standings after two rounds:1-16 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), Z. Zhong (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), W. So (RP), E. Torre (RP), R. Antonio (RP), D. Laylo (RP), R. Dableo (RP), W. Rui (China), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), W. Zhou (China), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP) 2 points; 17-20 N. Hua (China), R. Bitoon (RP), A. Makinano (RP), H. Nouri 1.5.
GM-candidate Wesley So provided the days’ s biggest surprise as he pulled off a stunning upset win over GM Mark Paragua, even as top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms in the second round of the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in the queen-rook-pawn endgame.
The win enabled Paragua to join Onischuk, Pengxiang and 13 other players with perfect scores of two points in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.
Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovitch, while Pengxiang whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in only 29 moves of the Sicilian.
Also hurdling their second-round assignments were No. 4 GM Zhang Zhong of China, who subdued IM Chito Garma in 60 moves of the Scotch; No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, who downed IM Yves Ranola; No. 6 Gm Vladimir Belov of Russia, who trounced NM Oliver Barbosa in in 48 moves of the Caro Kann; and GM Viktor Mikhalevski of Israel, who outclassed Nm Rolando Nolte.
Except for Paragua and Mariano II, the country’s three other GMS also won their r matches against their lower-rated opponents.
GM Eugene Torre outplayed FM Fernie Donguines, GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra, and GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor overwhelmed Nelson Villanueva Jr.
NM Emmanuel Senador outwitted IM Oliver Dimakiling and IM Ronald Dableo humbled Richard de la Cruz to join the elite group of two-pointers.
Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.
Four other foreign players won their matches against their Filipino rivals.
Wang Rui of China overwhelmed FM Mirabeau Maga, Weiqi Zhou of China stopped upset-conscious Ramon Manon-og, Victoria Chan of Singapore surprised NM Sammy Estimo and Kamil Rzoska of Poland downed Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena.
The only foreign casualty was Wang Li of Chia, who was ambushed by NM Efren Bagamasbad.
In other results, IM Barlo Nadera stopped Loreshyl Cuizon, six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor whipped Enerose Magno, WIM Beverly Mendoza overpowered Christian Flores, Catherine Perena toppled Leo Ausan, Julius de Ramos nipped Erwin Carag, and Robert Suelo clipped Jan Emmanuel Garcia.
The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bringhome th elion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.
Onischuk, 5 others share lead; So shocks Paragua
Standings after three rounds:1-6 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio Jr. (RP) 3 points; 7-11 W. So (RP), Z.,Zhong (China), W. Rui (China), E. Torre (RP), R. Bitoon (RP) 2.5; 12-33 N. Hua (China), A. Makinano (RP), M. Paragua (RP), F. Donguines (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), B. Mendoza (RP), D. Laylo (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), R. Dableo (RP), W. Zhou (China), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP), C. Garma (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), O. Babrosa (RP), R. Nolte (RP), B. Nadera (RP), R. Bancod (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), S. Severino (RP), A. Khairul (Ina), R. Tolentino (RP) 2.
WESLEY So provided the days’ s biggest surprise, beating GM Mark Paragua in the second round and drawing with GM Eugene Torre in the third to boost his chances for his second GM norm in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in a queen-rook-pawn endgame.
It was So’s first career victory over Paragua, at 22 the country's highest-rated player.
Then, So held the 55-year-old Torre to a draw with the white pieces after only 26 moves of a Bishop’s Opening to remain in contention with 2.5 points out of a possible three in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.
Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms and racked up back-to-back victories to lead four other players with perfect scores of three points.
Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovich in the second round and IM Darwin Laylo in 40 moves of another Nimzo in the third.
Pengxiang, ranked No. 4 in China with an ELO of 2636, whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in 29 moves of the Sicilian in the second round and IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 43 moves of the Dutch.
NO. 10 seed GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player in the lead with three points.
Also with perfect scores of three points were GMs Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, Vladimir Belov of Russia and Victor Mikhalevski of Israel.
No. 5 Akobian downed IM Yves Ranola in the second round and Im Ronald Dableo in the third round, No. 6 Belov trounced NM Oliver Barbosa and Weiqi Zhou of China and No. 8 Mikhalevski outclassed NM Rolando Nolte and GM Bong Villamayor.
Joining So and Torre in a five-way tie for seventh to 11th places were GM Zhang Zhong and IM Wang Rui, both of China, who drew their match after only nine moves of the Pirc; and IM Richard Bitoon, who beat Hamed Nouri.
Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.
Hua was held to another draw in the third round, this time by Palawan Open champion NM Anthony Makinano of Cebu.
Sharing the limelight in the third round was Turin Olympiad veteran WIM Beverly Mendoza, who shocked Gonzales in 43 moves of the Dutch to remain as the highest-placed female player with two points.
Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena outsteadied NM Sammy Estimo to finally barge into the win column after two losses.
Other third-round winners were Paragua, who downed Catherine Perena; IM Oliver Dimakiling, who nipped Kamil Rzoska of Poland; NM Oliver Babrosa, who trounced Victoria Chan of Singapore; Sander Severino, who toppled NM Miranbau Maga; NM Petronio Roca, who stopped WFM Liu Yang of China; Adrian Pacis , who beat Dande Fernandez; and Erwin Carag, who humbled Edmundo Legaspi.
The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bring home the lion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.
So Faces Tough Chinese GM
Standings after three rounds:1-6 A.Onischuk (USA), Z.Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V.Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio (RP) 3 points; 7-11 Z. Zhong (China), E. Torre (RP), W. Rui (China), R. Bitoon (RP), W. So (RP) 2.5.
GM-candidate Wesley So faces his biggest test yet when he meets third seed GM Ni Hua of China in the fourth round of the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque today (Nov. 20).
Buoyed by his upset win over GM Mark Paragua in the second round and a draw with GM Eugene Torre in the third round, the 13-year old So gets a chance to play his first foreign rival in the prestigious nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and Duty Free Philippines in honor of President Arroyo.
So, who earned his first GM norm in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, will play the disadvantageous black pieces against Hua.
A member of the Chinese team which finished runner-up in the 37th World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Hua was held to a draw in two of his first three assignments by Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro in the first round and Anthony Makinano of Cebu in the third round.
GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. also gets his first opportunity against a foreign rival when he takes on fifth seed GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States in another keenly-awaited encoubter.
Antonio racked up three straight victories over WIM Beverly Mendoza, FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player still in the lead pack with a perfect score of three points.
The 42-year old Antonio will play black against Akobian, the 23-year old American who swept his first three matches against Catherine Perena, IM Yves Ranola and IM Ronald Dableo.
In the other featured matches at center stage, top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States battles sixth seed GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and No. 2 GM Wang Pengxiang of China plays No. 8 GM Alexander Mikhalevski of Israel.
Onischuk, who won the US Championship last March and now ranked second in the US behind only GM Gata Kamsky with an ELO rating of 2668, had easy time against NM Adrian Pacis, IM Jayson Gonzales and IM Darwin Laylo.
Torre, at 55 still the country’s most-experienced player in the international front, tests the mettle of GM Zhang Zhong of China, while IM Richard Bitoon trades moves with IM Wang Rui of China. GM Nelson Mariano II, the country’s fifth GM in the registry, will try to recover lost ground when he faces NM Rodolfo Panopio Jr. After hurdling his opening-day assignment against NM Efren Bagamasbad, Mariano lost to Pengxiang in the second round and settled for a draw with Julius de Ramos in the third round.
In other featured fourth-round matches, it will be Paragua against NM Rolando Nolte, IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan against FM Fernie Donguines, IM Barlo Nadera against IM Oliver Dimakiling, Senador against Laylo, Zhou Weiqi of China against IM Ronald Bancod, GM Buenavetura “Bong” Villamayor against Sadorra, Anam Khairul of Indonesia against Dableo, IM Chito Garma against Makinano and Mendoza against Ranola.
Paragua kept his hopes alive despite the stunning second-round setback to So by hurdling Perena in the third round, while Donguines barely stayed in the upper half of the standings by outlasting NM Richard de la Cruz in their marathon four-hour showdown.
Mendoza, a veteran of the Turin Olympiad, will also seek a fitting follow-up to her morale-boosting third-round upset win over Gonzales to boost her chances for the top consolation prize in the female category.
WFM Sherry Joy Lomibao will play national junior champion John Paul Gomez while Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena will tackle Wang Li of China in other crucial matches.
Tournament director is Wilie Abalos, while the chief arbiter is Toti Abundo.
At stake in the week-long competition which ends Nov. 24 are US $6,000 and the coveted GMA Cup for the champion, US $4,000 to the runner-up and US $3,000 to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to the 15th placers, as well as the top three finishers in the female and junior categories.
+ Courtesy of NCFP official website.
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