Friends,
Thanks for supporting this blog.
As 2007 comes to its end, and a new year unfolds, let us write our hurts on sand where winds of forgiveness can blow them away. And let us carve our blessings on stone so no storm can ever wash them away.
Let us thank God for all that has been.... And all that will be!
Here's wishing you and your loved ones continued blessings of good health, security, serenity, much love, laughter, and prosperity throughout 2008!
All the best,
Jovie Sison
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
IM BARBOSA TOPS FIANCHETTO X-MAS BLITZ CHESS
Final Standings in each bracket:
Masters
Champion: IM Oliver Barbosa (P3,000)
Runner-up: NM Alex Milagrosa (P1,500)
Losing Semi-finalists: NM Emmanuel Senador and NM Erwin Carag (P750 each)
Losing Quarter-finalists: NM Rolando Nolte, NM Marlon Bernardino Jr., NM Jerome Balico, NM Allan Sasot (P500 each)
Last 16: NM Efren Bagamasbad, NM Ernesto Absin, FM Adrian Ros Pacis, NM Mirabeau Maga, WIM Cristine Rose Mariano, NM Ponce Badilles, NM Andrew Vasquez and NM Rudy Ibañez (P300 each)
Non-Master, Kiddie at Senior Chess Masters
Champion: Verth Alora (P2,000)
Runner-up: Dr. Jenny Mayor (P1,000)
Losing Semi-finalists: Ildefonso Datu and Rolly Yutuc (P500 each)
Losing Quarter-finalists: Marc Christian Nazario, Ervil Villa, Henry Mariano and Glenn Caballero (P400 each)
Executives
Champion: Willy San Juan (gift)
Runner-up: Dr. Johnny Coralles (gift)
Losing semi-finalist: Noel Garcia and Cip Oviedo (gift)
Losing quarter-finalists: Jun Rivera, Neil Dumlao, Leo Tito Ausan Jr. and AB Canta (gifts)
NEWLY installed IM Oliver Barbosa trounced NM Alex Milagrosa, 1.5-0.5, in the finals to rules the Fianchetto Realty Christmas Blitz Chess Invitational Friday night at the Prince Gregory Condominium in Quezon City.
In the first finals game, the two warrior ended their game in a fighting draw, however Barbosa won the second finals game to score a 1.5-0.5 victory. He receive the top prize P3,000 in the one day event hosted by Fianchetto Realty Corporation Vice President GM Eugene Torre, Gold edge assets holding corporation Vice president Jeffrey Divino and chess patron Cesar Iligan.
Milagrosa, assistant coach of Far Eastern University (FEU) chess team on the other hand pocket the runner-up prize P1,500.
On the way to the finals, Barbosa bested NM Rolando Nolte, 1.5-0.5, in the quarters, then subdued NM Emmanuel Senador, 1.5-0.5, in the semis before beating Milargosa, 1.5-0.5, in the finals.
Meanwhile, Verth Alora and Musician-composer Willy San Juan dominates their respective divisions to join Barbosa in the list of winners.
Alora beat RP six time executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor in the Non-Master, Kiddie and Senior Chess Masters category while San Juan defeated Dr. Johnny Coralles in the Executive divisions. Thirteen year old Marc Christian Nazario of Quezon City adjudge youth kiddie best finishers.
MARLON BERNARDINO, contributor
Masters
Champion: IM Oliver Barbosa (P3,000)
Runner-up: NM Alex Milagrosa (P1,500)
Losing Semi-finalists: NM Emmanuel Senador and NM Erwin Carag (P750 each)
Losing Quarter-finalists: NM Rolando Nolte, NM Marlon Bernardino Jr., NM Jerome Balico, NM Allan Sasot (P500 each)
Last 16: NM Efren Bagamasbad, NM Ernesto Absin, FM Adrian Ros Pacis, NM Mirabeau Maga, WIM Cristine Rose Mariano, NM Ponce Badilles, NM Andrew Vasquez and NM Rudy Ibañez (P300 each)
Non-Master, Kiddie at Senior Chess Masters
Champion: Verth Alora (P2,000)
Runner-up: Dr. Jenny Mayor (P1,000)
Losing Semi-finalists: Ildefonso Datu and Rolly Yutuc (P500 each)
Losing Quarter-finalists: Marc Christian Nazario, Ervil Villa, Henry Mariano and Glenn Caballero (P400 each)
Executives
Champion: Willy San Juan (gift)
Runner-up: Dr. Johnny Coralles (gift)
Losing semi-finalist: Noel Garcia and Cip Oviedo (gift)
Losing quarter-finalists: Jun Rivera, Neil Dumlao, Leo Tito Ausan Jr. and AB Canta (gifts)
NEWLY installed IM Oliver Barbosa trounced NM Alex Milagrosa, 1.5-0.5, in the finals to rules the Fianchetto Realty Christmas Blitz Chess Invitational Friday night at the Prince Gregory Condominium in Quezon City.
In the first finals game, the two warrior ended their game in a fighting draw, however Barbosa won the second finals game to score a 1.5-0.5 victory. He receive the top prize P3,000 in the one day event hosted by Fianchetto Realty Corporation Vice President GM Eugene Torre, Gold edge assets holding corporation Vice president Jeffrey Divino and chess patron Cesar Iligan.
Milagrosa, assistant coach of Far Eastern University (FEU) chess team on the other hand pocket the runner-up prize P1,500.
On the way to the finals, Barbosa bested NM Rolando Nolte, 1.5-0.5, in the quarters, then subdued NM Emmanuel Senador, 1.5-0.5, in the semis before beating Milargosa, 1.5-0.5, in the finals.
Meanwhile, Verth Alora and Musician-composer Willy San Juan dominates their respective divisions to join Barbosa in the list of winners.
Alora beat RP six time executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor in the Non-Master, Kiddie and Senior Chess Masters category while San Juan defeated Dr. Johnny Coralles in the Executive divisions. Thirteen year old Marc Christian Nazario of Quezon City adjudge youth kiddie best finishers.
MARLON BERNARDINO, contributor
Saturday, December 29, 2007
TORRE VERSUS ANTONIO REMATCH
GRANDMASTERS Eugene Torre and Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr., fierce rivals in tournaments and not the best of friends in the politics of their sport, are ready to renew their rivalry next year.
Both camps agreed to stage a 12-match marathon in the summer of 2008 for two reasons: Promote chess in the countryside and prepare themselves for the biggest battleground of the sport – the Chess Olympiad.
"Hindi na rin naman kami bumabata. We need to develop more young chess talents," said Torre. "We're hoping to get the interest of potential talents from the grassroots level by going to their places."
Still the country's top two rated players despite their advanced age, Torre and Antonio are tipped to lead the country's campaign in the biennial meet set in Dresden, Germany.
"Hindi natin alam baka last Olympiad na namin next year," said Antonio. "Anuman ang mangyari maganda na 'yung preparado kami."
They've got the best sparring partner in each other.
Quezon City majority floor leader and fourth district councilor Ariel Inton likes the idea of hosting a rematch between Torre and Antonio, a decade after the historic clash of the local chess titans.
Antonio became the first local player to beat Torre in a series with a 1-up victory in their 1998 match.
"Both players are based in Quezon City. It would be great for our city and our people if the Torre vs. Antonio II will be held here, beside sila ay most outstanding Quezon City athlete," said Inton. "If it's not possible for us to host all 12 matches, sana kahit 'yung first three and last three."
The organizers are planning to hold a number of matches in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro and Baguio City. The organizers of the titular rematch of the country's 1-2 punch also idea to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the World Chess Championships match between Anatoly Karpov and Victor Korchnoi. The duo was clash in Baguio City in 1978.
Both are summer destinations and significant places for the players. Torre is an adopted son of Baguio while Antonio hails from Oriental Mindoro.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Both camps agreed to stage a 12-match marathon in the summer of 2008 for two reasons: Promote chess in the countryside and prepare themselves for the biggest battleground of the sport – the Chess Olympiad.
"Hindi na rin naman kami bumabata. We need to develop more young chess talents," said Torre. "We're hoping to get the interest of potential talents from the grassroots level by going to their places."
Still the country's top two rated players despite their advanced age, Torre and Antonio are tipped to lead the country's campaign in the biennial meet set in Dresden, Germany.
"Hindi natin alam baka last Olympiad na namin next year," said Antonio. "Anuman ang mangyari maganda na 'yung preparado kami."
They've got the best sparring partner in each other.
Quezon City majority floor leader and fourth district councilor Ariel Inton likes the idea of hosting a rematch between Torre and Antonio, a decade after the historic clash of the local chess titans.
Antonio became the first local player to beat Torre in a series with a 1-up victory in their 1998 match.
"Both players are based in Quezon City. It would be great for our city and our people if the Torre vs. Antonio II will be held here, beside sila ay most outstanding Quezon City athlete," said Inton. "If it's not possible for us to host all 12 matches, sana kahit 'yung first three and last three."
The organizers are planning to hold a number of matches in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro and Baguio City. The organizers of the titular rematch of the country's 1-2 punch also idea to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the World Chess Championships match between Anatoly Karpov and Victor Korchnoi. The duo was clash in Baguio City in 1978.
Both are summer destinations and significant places for the players. Torre is an adopted son of Baguio while Antonio hails from Oriental Mindoro.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
FEU WOODPUSHERS DOMINATES WORLD INTER-VARSITY CHESS
VICTORIUS Philippine team represented by Far Eastern University poses with NCFP president Prospero Pichay Jr.
Left to right: IM Jayson Gonzales, James Bulicatin, Luffe Magdalaga, John Ranel Morazo, Fide Master Roderick Nava, NCFP president Prospero Pichay Jr., Cherrylyn Guiang, Jenny Rose Palomo, Lovelyn Medina, Ronna Reigner Senora and NM Alex Milagrosa
Final Standings: (24 team competitions, nine round Swiss System)
Champion: Far Eastern University, Team A (Philippines) 27.5 points
Runner-up: National University of Singapore (Singapore) 25.5 points (212 tie break points)
Third place: Far Eastern University, Team B (Philippines) 25.5 points (200 tie break points)
Fourth place: University of Colombo, Team A (Sri Lanka) 24.0 points
Fifth place: University of Malaya, Team A (Malaysia) 23.0 points
Sixth place: PTVA (India) 22.5 points
Seventh place: Nanyang Technological University, Team A (Singapore) 22.0 points
Eight place: Azad Islamic University (Iran) 21.5 points
Ninth place: University of Malaya, Team B (Malaysia) 20.0 points
Tenth place: University Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Team A (Malaysia) 20.0 points
Eleventh place: University Islam Antarabangsa, Team A (Malaysia) 20.0 points…
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Men's Individual Champion: FM Roderick Nava (Far Eastern University, Team A) 7.5 points
Women's Individual Champion: Jenny Rose Palomo ((Far Eastern University, Team A) 7.5 points
------
FAR EASTERN UNIVERSITY (TEAM A) Philippines chess team dominates the just concluded 12th Rakan Muda GACC (Grand Asean Chess Challenge) World Inter-Varsity Chess Championships 2007 held recently at the Auditorium Perdana Siswa, University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
The Tamarraw woodpushers under the watchful eyes of head coach GM candidate Jayson Gonzales and assistant coach NM Alex Milagrosa which are composed of Fide Master Roderick Nava, Luffe Magdalaga, John Ranel Morazo and Jenny Rose Palomo notch a total 27.5 combined points to snatch the championships trophy, the gold medal plus the top purse 2,000 Ringgit (Malaysian dollar) in this annual tournament organized under the auspices of the Malaysian Chess Federation with support from the Youth and Sports Ministry.
"We (FEU-RP Chess team) would like to thank Mr. Mark Oliver Molina (FEU, Athletic Director) and Congressman Butch Pichay Jr. (NCFP president) for giving us unwavering support," said Gonzales, who needed one GM norm to complete his GM status.
"Our hard work has absolutely paid off," added Gonzales, member of the RP Chess team who bagged the gold medal in the 2003 Vietnam Southeast Asian Games and 2006 Turin World Chess Olympiad.
According to Gonzales, it was a best year for the Manila based school who also won the 2007 University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) in Manila and 2007 University Games (UniGames) in Bacolod City, both in the men's senior competition.
"We are very happy because we won three major tournaments, here and abroad," he added.
National University of Singapore had a better 212 tie break points over Far Eastern University, Team B, Philippines which tallied 200 tie break points to win the silver medal plus the runner-up prize of 1,500 Ringgit (Malaysian dollar). NUS and FEU B tallying identical 25.5 points.
FEU-B headed by Davao's James Bulicatin, Cherrylyn Guiang, Lovelyn Medina and Ronna Reigner Senora didn't go empty hand in this 24 participated team after receiving third prize of 1,000 Ringgit (Malaysian Dollar) plus the bronze medal.
Meanwhile, Nava and Palomo finished 7.5 points to emerged-over-all champion in the men's and women's individual division, respectively. Each of them received 1,000 Ringgit (Malaysian Dollar).
Nava surpass the third place joint finish of Arnulfo Gavillan (UP) and NM Marlon Bernardino Jr. (RTU) in the 2000 edition men's individual class while FEU Team A also surpass the third place finish of Rizal Technological University-Mandaluyong City in the 1999 edition in the team competitions.
According to the tournament organizer, each university can send in a maximum of two teams, each comprising a minimum of four participants, including one female where all points will be combined to determine the team winners. The maximum number of participants per team is six.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Thursday, December 27, 2007
GM WESLEY SO TO SEE ACTION IN INDIA
BAPTISM OF FIRE IN INDIA
GRANDMASTER Wesley So, at 14 the world's youngest grandmaster today, will see action, most likely as board one player of the national squad, in the Asian Team Championship that kicks off on January 2, right after New Year's Day in the southern Indian city of Visakhapatnam.
"I hope to do well in this event," said So, currently No. 3 in the RP-Fide rating list with an Elo rating of 2531 in an interview with this writer at the Synchopados Restaurant in Malate in the celebration of Christmas Party hosted by Prospero Pichay.
The Bacoor Boy Wonder, who won his GM spurs in the recent Second Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup International Open held in the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Parañaque City, is going to India with three other GMs—Mark Paragua, Eugenio Torre and Rogelio Antonio, Jr. — and Singapore-based International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra, who already has one GM norm.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines president Butch Pichay, who sponsored the Cup named after him, believes that the five forms the strongest possible squad the country can field at this time.
The event, to be held from January 2 to 11, is being hosted by All India Chess Federation and is being organized by the East Coast Chess Academy and the Andhra Pradesh Chess Federation.
Acording to media reports, the NCFP is also sending the national women's team — Sheerie Joy Lomibao, Beverly Mendoza, Sherily Cua and Catherine Pereña. This is the same squad that shone in the Turin Olympiad last year.
WORLD CHESS NEWS: KAMSKY WINS WORLD CUP
FORMER United States champion Gata Kamsky has captured the 2007 World Cup by battling Alexei Shirov of Latvia and Spain to a draw in the third round, held recently at the Khanty Mansiysk, Russia.
Kamsky sacrificed the exchange—a rook for a bishop—to create a clear window of opportunity for a draw via perpetual check against his co-finalist to win their match, 2.5-1.5, from one win and three draws.
He will face former world champion Veselin Topalov of Bulgaria next year in a match to determine who is to challenge the winner of the rematch between reigning world champion Viswanathan Anand of India and the man he dethroned, Vladimir Kramnik of Russia.
"I wish to thank everyone for supporting me," Kamsky who had been the underdog said.
His victory capped a three-year campaign to return to his former strength after a seven-year absence from active competition.
Kamsky left chess in 1997 after losing to then Fide world champion Anatoly Karpov in a world title match.
He then went back to college to study medicine then switched to law and graduated in 1997. Soon after graduation, he returned to chess by entering the US championship.
Kamsky won the US crown in 1992, four years after defecting to the United States from the Soviet Union, which collapsed in 1991.
On his way to the top, Kamsky defeated world junior champion Ahmed Adly of Egypt, Boris Avrukh of Israel, Kiril Georgiev of Bulgaria, Peter Svidler of Russia, former world champion Ruslan Ponomariov of Ukraine, Norwegian wunderkind Magnus Carlsen, 17, in the seminals, and Shirov, in that order.
Kamsky went through the World Cup without a misstep, except in the third round when he was stretched to a rapid playoff against Svidler, a four-time Russian national champion.
Shirov had reached the finals by beating Sergey Karjakin, 18, the world's youngest person ever to become a grandmaster. Carlsen and Karjakin are two of the world's strongest junior players.
In the final round, Kamsky and Shirov drew their first game. Kamsky won the second game, coasted along to draw the third, and needed only a draw to win the match.
In their fourth game, Kamsky spotted a chance to force a draw via perpetual check early on in the transition from the middle game to the endgame.
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
GRANDMASTER Wesley So, at 14 the world's youngest grandmaster today, will see action, most likely as board one player of the national squad, in the Asian Team Championship that kicks off on January 2, right after New Year's Day in the southern Indian city of Visakhapatnam.
"I hope to do well in this event," said So, currently No. 3 in the RP-Fide rating list with an Elo rating of 2531 in an interview with this writer at the Synchopados Restaurant in Malate in the celebration of Christmas Party hosted by Prospero Pichay.
The Bacoor Boy Wonder, who won his GM spurs in the recent Second Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup International Open held in the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Parañaque City, is going to India with three other GMs—Mark Paragua, Eugenio Torre and Rogelio Antonio, Jr. — and Singapore-based International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra, who already has one GM norm.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines president Butch Pichay, who sponsored the Cup named after him, believes that the five forms the strongest possible squad the country can field at this time.
The event, to be held from January 2 to 11, is being hosted by All India Chess Federation and is being organized by the East Coast Chess Academy and the Andhra Pradesh Chess Federation.
Acording to media reports, the NCFP is also sending the national women's team — Sheerie Joy Lomibao, Beverly Mendoza, Sherily Cua and Catherine Pereña. This is the same squad that shone in the Turin Olympiad last year.
WORLD CHESS NEWS: KAMSKY WINS WORLD CUP
FORMER United States champion Gata Kamsky has captured the 2007 World Cup by battling Alexei Shirov of Latvia and Spain to a draw in the third round, held recently at the Khanty Mansiysk, Russia.
Kamsky sacrificed the exchange—a rook for a bishop—to create a clear window of opportunity for a draw via perpetual check against his co-finalist to win their match, 2.5-1.5, from one win and three draws.
He will face former world champion Veselin Topalov of Bulgaria next year in a match to determine who is to challenge the winner of the rematch between reigning world champion Viswanathan Anand of India and the man he dethroned, Vladimir Kramnik of Russia.
"I wish to thank everyone for supporting me," Kamsky who had been the underdog said.
His victory capped a three-year campaign to return to his former strength after a seven-year absence from active competition.
Kamsky left chess in 1997 after losing to then Fide world champion Anatoly Karpov in a world title match.
He then went back to college to study medicine then switched to law and graduated in 1997. Soon after graduation, he returned to chess by entering the US championship.
Kamsky won the US crown in 1992, four years after defecting to the United States from the Soviet Union, which collapsed in 1991.
On his way to the top, Kamsky defeated world junior champion Ahmed Adly of Egypt, Boris Avrukh of Israel, Kiril Georgiev of Bulgaria, Peter Svidler of Russia, former world champion Ruslan Ponomariov of Ukraine, Norwegian wunderkind Magnus Carlsen, 17, in the seminals, and Shirov, in that order.
Kamsky went through the World Cup without a misstep, except in the third round when he was stretched to a rapid playoff against Svidler, a four-time Russian national champion.
Shirov had reached the finals by beating Sergey Karjakin, 18, the world's youngest person ever to become a grandmaster. Carlsen and Karjakin are two of the world's strongest junior players.
In the final round, Kamsky and Shirov drew their first game. Kamsky won the second game, coasted along to draw the third, and needed only a draw to win the match.
In their fourth game, Kamsky spotted a chance to force a draw via perpetual check early on in the transition from the middle game to the endgame.
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
XAVIER SCHOOL IS ISSA CHESS CHAMP
THE Xavier School Varsity Chess Team emerged as champions in the grade school and high school divisions of the inaugural Inter Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Chess Team Tournament held last December 8, 2007 at the Fr. Cortina Sports Center in Xavier School in San Juan, MM.
For less than a year, the high school chess team of Xavier School was transformed into a competitive unit under the guidance of chess coach Erwin Carag. Carag is an outstanding national master (nm) and an international arbiter (IA) as well. To show the team's strength, Xavier School (XS) Team A topped the high school division competition with an unblemished total of 12 game points. Landing in second place is Xavier School Team B, followed by Colegio de San Agustin (CSA) in third place, and International School of Manila (ISM) in distant fourth place. The rules of the league allow each member schools to field at most 2 teams both in the high school and grade school categories.
Xavier School Team A – HS is composed of team captain Trevor Chan in board one, Jeffrey Go, Anderson Ongsyping, Marvin Yee and Marc Sy. Individual gold medals went to Mervin Ledesma of Xavier School Team B and Marc Ancanan of CSA in board one, Jeffrey Go – board 2, Anderson Ongsyping – board 3, Marvin Yee – board 4 and Marc Sy – XS Team A and Martey Haw – XS Team B, all from Xavier School.
In the grade school division, Xavier School Team A – GS topped the field, followed closely by International School of Manila (ISM) Team A – 2ND , CSA – 3RD , ISM Team B – 4TH. The grade school chessplayers of Xavier School is handled by seasoned coach International Arbiter (IA) Rolly Yutuc.
The Xavier School Athletics and Physical Education (APEX) Department headed by Mr. Larry De Las Peñas and assistant sports coordinator Mr. John Sy lauded the boys for a job well done. The chess training started last summer with the jumpstart comprehensive computer chess seminar offered by Mr. Bobby Ang, Xavier School's outstanding chess alumnus. John Sy announced that Xavier School is organizing the 4TH Xavier Interscholastic Chess Invitational to be held on January 19 and 26, 2008 at the Fr. Cortina Sport Center Function Room. The individual tourney is open to all bonafide grade school and high school students throughout the country. Other plans in Xavier include organizing an age-group type of chess competition this April 2008.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
For less than a year, the high school chess team of Xavier School was transformed into a competitive unit under the guidance of chess coach Erwin Carag. Carag is an outstanding national master (nm) and an international arbiter (IA) as well. To show the team's strength, Xavier School (XS) Team A topped the high school division competition with an unblemished total of 12 game points. Landing in second place is Xavier School Team B, followed by Colegio de San Agustin (CSA) in third place, and International School of Manila (ISM) in distant fourth place. The rules of the league allow each member schools to field at most 2 teams both in the high school and grade school categories.
Xavier School Team A – HS is composed of team captain Trevor Chan in board one, Jeffrey Go, Anderson Ongsyping, Marvin Yee and Marc Sy. Individual gold medals went to Mervin Ledesma of Xavier School Team B and Marc Ancanan of CSA in board one, Jeffrey Go – board 2, Anderson Ongsyping – board 3, Marvin Yee – board 4 and Marc Sy – XS Team A and Martey Haw – XS Team B, all from Xavier School.
In the grade school division, Xavier School Team A – GS topped the field, followed closely by International School of Manila (ISM) Team A – 2ND , CSA – 3RD , ISM Team B – 4TH. The grade school chessplayers of Xavier School is handled by seasoned coach International Arbiter (IA) Rolly Yutuc.
The Xavier School Athletics and Physical Education (APEX) Department headed by Mr. Larry De Las Peñas and assistant sports coordinator Mr. John Sy lauded the boys for a job well done. The chess training started last summer with the jumpstart comprehensive computer chess seminar offered by Mr. Bobby Ang, Xavier School's outstanding chess alumnus. John Sy announced that Xavier School is organizing the 4TH Xavier Interscholastic Chess Invitational to be held on January 19 and 26, 2008 at the Fr. Cortina Sport Center Function Room. The individual tourney is open to all bonafide grade school and high school students throughout the country. Other plans in Xavier include organizing an age-group type of chess competition this April 2008.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Friday, December 21, 2007
SEVILLANO IS SECOND IN AMERICAN OPEN CHESS
CEBUANO International Master Enrique "Ikong" Sevillano finished in second place to US Grandmaster Alex Yermolinsky in the American Open Chess Tournament held in Los Angeles Califronia, USA last weekend.
Southern California state champion Sevillano, prodigy of NM Bombi Aznar seized the second spot on tiebreak over four others led by another American GM, Melikset Khachiyan who, like the former Asian junior champion from Cebu, is based in California.
Yermolinsky, the US Open champion in 1993 and 1996, captured the plum with 6.0 points with five wins and two draws.
Sevillano, Khachiyan, former world junior champion IM Vinay Bhat, John Daniel Bryant and Eugene Yanayt came next under the tournament's tiebreaking formula.
In a tie for seventh to eighth were FM Alexander Kretchetiv, FM Eobby Adamson and Eric Hansen. They had 5.5 each.
FM Harutyun Akopyan and and Malcolm Tredennick tied for 10th and 11 half a point behind.
The Cebuano native left the Philippines in 1993, one year after playing at the Manila OIlympiad. He won the Asian junior crown in 1986.
Yermolinsky crushed IM Bhat but was held to a draw by IM Sevillano.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Southern California state champion Sevillano, prodigy of NM Bombi Aznar seized the second spot on tiebreak over four others led by another American GM, Melikset Khachiyan who, like the former Asian junior champion from Cebu, is based in California.
Yermolinsky, the US Open champion in 1993 and 1996, captured the plum with 6.0 points with five wins and two draws.
Sevillano, Khachiyan, former world junior champion IM Vinay Bhat, John Daniel Bryant and Eugene Yanayt came next under the tournament's tiebreaking formula.
In a tie for seventh to eighth were FM Alexander Kretchetiv, FM Eobby Adamson and Eric Hansen. They had 5.5 each.
FM Harutyun Akopyan and and Malcolm Tredennick tied for 10th and 11 half a point behind.
The Cebuano native left the Philippines in 1993, one year after playing at the Manila OIlympiad. He won the Asian junior crown in 1986.
Yermolinsky crushed IM Bhat but was held to a draw by IM Sevillano.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
SADORRA IS FOURTH IN SINGAPORE OPEN
FINAL RESULTS OF SINGAPORE CHESS OPEN
Final Standings: (42 player's field/ 9 round Swiss System)
7.0 points--- GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO), GM Zhang Zhong (SIN)
6.5 points--- GM Sandipan Chanda (IND)
6.0 points--- IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), IM RR Laxman (IND), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), IM Girinath PDS (IND), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN)
5.5 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), GM Mark Paragua (RP), Lin Chen (CHN)
5.0 points---IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), Wan Yunguo (CHN), WGM Gu Xiaobing (CHN), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Salor Sitanggang (INA), WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (INA)
NEWLY Installed Filipino International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) split the point with GM Wu Shaobin (2469) using the white pieces in the ninth and final round to finish fourth in the Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore yesterday.
With this, the former Cavite stand out and now Singapore based Sadorra scored 6.0 points on account of four wins, four draws and a loss in nine games of play, the same output of Wu, GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam, GM Susanto Megaranto of Indonesia, IM RR Laxman and IM Girinath PDS of India. However, Sadorra finish fourth after the tie break points was applied. He also had a 2523 performance rating.
Sadorra had an impressive showing in the last four rounds by facing four tough GMs. He drew with second seed GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia in the sixth, bowed to top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore in the seventh, and split the point with No.4 GM Susanto Megaranto (2569) of Indonesia in the eight and No.10 GM Wu Shaobin (2449) in the ninth and final round.
Meanwhile, GM Azmaiparashvili took the championships crown by a better 50 tie break points than GM Zhang's 48. The duo finished identical 7.0 points apiece.
Third seed GM Sandipan Chanda (2593) of India occupied solo third with 6.5 points after he held a draw with GM Dao in the last round.
Rounding up to the top 10 to 13th placers with 5.5 points each were GM Mark Paragua and IM Oliver Dimakiling, GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam and Lin Chen of China.
IM Enrique Paciencia and IM Jayson Gonzales finished in 14th place along with four others with 5.0 points each.
NM Rolando Andador, who earned his first IM norm in the recently concluded Prospero Pichay International Open Chess recently at the Duty Free Mall in Paranaque City had a lackluster performance here in Singapore with 4.0 points.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Final Standings: (42 player's field/ 9 round Swiss System)
7.0 points--- GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO), GM Zhang Zhong (SIN)
6.5 points--- GM Sandipan Chanda (IND)
6.0 points--- IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), IM RR Laxman (IND), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), IM Girinath PDS (IND), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN)
5.5 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), GM Mark Paragua (RP), Lin Chen (CHN)
5.0 points---IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), Wan Yunguo (CHN), WGM Gu Xiaobing (CHN), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Salor Sitanggang (INA), WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (INA)
NEWLY Installed Filipino International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) split the point with GM Wu Shaobin (2469) using the white pieces in the ninth and final round to finish fourth in the Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore yesterday.
With this, the former Cavite stand out and now Singapore based Sadorra scored 6.0 points on account of four wins, four draws and a loss in nine games of play, the same output of Wu, GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam, GM Susanto Megaranto of Indonesia, IM RR Laxman and IM Girinath PDS of India. However, Sadorra finish fourth after the tie break points was applied. He also had a 2523 performance rating.
Sadorra had an impressive showing in the last four rounds by facing four tough GMs. He drew with second seed GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia in the sixth, bowed to top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore in the seventh, and split the point with No.4 GM Susanto Megaranto (2569) of Indonesia in the eight and No.10 GM Wu Shaobin (2449) in the ninth and final round.
Meanwhile, GM Azmaiparashvili took the championships crown by a better 50 tie break points than GM Zhang's 48. The duo finished identical 7.0 points apiece.
Third seed GM Sandipan Chanda (2593) of India occupied solo third with 6.5 points after he held a draw with GM Dao in the last round.
Rounding up to the top 10 to 13th placers with 5.5 points each were GM Mark Paragua and IM Oliver Dimakiling, GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam and Lin Chen of China.
IM Enrique Paciencia and IM Jayson Gonzales finished in 14th place along with four others with 5.0 points each.
NM Rolando Andador, who earned his first IM norm in the recently concluded Prospero Pichay International Open Chess recently at the Duty Free Mall in Paranaque City had a lackluster performance here in Singapore with 4.0 points.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
SINGAPORE OPEN ROUND 7
SINGAPORE MASTERS: SADORRA SUFFERED FIRST LOSS IN RD 7
Individual Standings after round 7:
6.0 points--- GM Sandipan Chanda (IND)
5.5 points--- GM Zhang Zhong (SIN), GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO)
5.0 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN), IM R R Laxman (IND)
4.5 points---IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), IM Salor Sitanggang (INA), IM Girinath PDS (INA)
4.0 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), WGM Gu Xiaobing (CHN), Wan Yunguo (CHN), Wang Li (CHN), Jia Haoxiang (CHN), Lin Chen (CHN)
3.5 points---GM Mark Paragua (RP), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Mas Hafizulhelmi (MAS), WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (INA), IM Ashot Nadanian (ARM), Shen Siyuan (CHN)
NEWLY INSTALLED Filipino International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) suffered his first lost at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore in the seventh round yesterday of the Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore.
With this result, Sadorra remained at 5.0 points on account of four wins, two draws and a loss and dropped to a 2524 rating performance.
The former Cavite resident and currently based in Singapore earlier drew with second seed GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia late Wednesday that lift his rating performance of 2594.
He will face GM Susanto Megaranto (2569) of Indonesia in the eight round late Thursday and a win will move Sadorra closer to his second GM norm. Sadorra already faced three required GM opponents according to the FIDE handbook rules. Sadorra obtains his first of three GM norm in the recent Prospero Pichay International Open Chess Championships in Duty Free Mall in Paranaque City. He needs to score 7.0 points to secure a GM norm.
Meanwhile, GM Sandipan nipped countryman IM Girinath PDS of India and GM Azmaiparashvili, respectively to grab the solo lead with 6.0 points, a half point ahead with GMs Zhang Zhong and Azmaiparashvili each with 5.5 points.
Another Singapore based IM Enrique Paciencia scored 1.5 points in two outings to climb into a share of 8th to 12th placers in the group of 4.5 points headed by GM Megaranto, IM Salor Sitanggang of Indonesia, GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam and IM Girinath.
Paciencia, a native of Tacloban, Leyte split the point with lone Filipino GM Mark Paragua in the sixth then beat Wan Yunguo of China in the seventh round.
Paragua who holds an ELO rating of 2415, bowed to IM Sitanggang who only holds an Elo rating of 2410, in the seventh round.
Meanwhile, IM Oliver Dimakiling who beat WGM Li Ruofan of China in the sixth round yielded to GM Dao in the seventh to remain with 4.0 points. IM Jayson Gonzales on the other hand who dealt NM Roland Andador in the sixth halved the point with IM Mas Hafizulhelmi of Malaysia in the seventh.
Paragua, Dimakiling and Gonzales tallying identical 3.5 points apiece while Andador was stuck at 2.0 points.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Individual Standings after round 7:
6.0 points--- GM Sandipan Chanda (IND)
5.5 points--- GM Zhang Zhong (SIN), GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO)
5.0 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN), IM R R Laxman (IND)
4.5 points---IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), IM Salor Sitanggang (INA), IM Girinath PDS (INA)
4.0 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), WGM Gu Xiaobing (CHN), Wan Yunguo (CHN), Wang Li (CHN), Jia Haoxiang (CHN), Lin Chen (CHN)
3.5 points---GM Mark Paragua (RP), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Mas Hafizulhelmi (MAS), WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (INA), IM Ashot Nadanian (ARM), Shen Siyuan (CHN)
NEWLY INSTALLED Filipino International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) suffered his first lost at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore in the seventh round yesterday of the Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore.
With this result, Sadorra remained at 5.0 points on account of four wins, two draws and a loss and dropped to a 2524 rating performance.
The former Cavite resident and currently based in Singapore earlier drew with second seed GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia late Wednesday that lift his rating performance of 2594.
He will face GM Susanto Megaranto (2569) of Indonesia in the eight round late Thursday and a win will move Sadorra closer to his second GM norm. Sadorra already faced three required GM opponents according to the FIDE handbook rules. Sadorra obtains his first of three GM norm in the recent Prospero Pichay International Open Chess Championships in Duty Free Mall in Paranaque City. He needs to score 7.0 points to secure a GM norm.
Meanwhile, GM Sandipan nipped countryman IM Girinath PDS of India and GM Azmaiparashvili, respectively to grab the solo lead with 6.0 points, a half point ahead with GMs Zhang Zhong and Azmaiparashvili each with 5.5 points.
Another Singapore based IM Enrique Paciencia scored 1.5 points in two outings to climb into a share of 8th to 12th placers in the group of 4.5 points headed by GM Megaranto, IM Salor Sitanggang of Indonesia, GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam and IM Girinath.
Paciencia, a native of Tacloban, Leyte split the point with lone Filipino GM Mark Paragua in the sixth then beat Wan Yunguo of China in the seventh round.
Paragua who holds an ELO rating of 2415, bowed to IM Sitanggang who only holds an Elo rating of 2410, in the seventh round.
Meanwhile, IM Oliver Dimakiling who beat WGM Li Ruofan of China in the sixth round yielded to GM Dao in the seventh to remain with 4.0 points. IM Jayson Gonzales on the other hand who dealt NM Roland Andador in the sixth halved the point with IM Mas Hafizulhelmi of Malaysia in the seventh.
Paragua, Dimakiling and Gonzales tallying identical 3.5 points apiece while Andador was stuck at 2.0 points.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
SINGAPORE MASTERS UPDATE
PACIENCIA, DIMAKILING REMAINS ON TOP IN SINGAPORE MASTERS OPEN
FILIPINO International Masters Oliver Dimakiling (2491) and Enrique Paciencia (2431) hurdled their respective rivals, both using the advantageous white pieces to share top honors together with five others after the second round of 4th Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 late Monday in Singapore.
Dimakiling, who hails from Davao City defeated Lin Chen (2363) from China while the Leyte native Singapore based Paciencia upset No.3 GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) of India.
Unfortunately, GM Mark Paragua (2415) and IM Jayson Gonzales (2454) lost their second games to Chinese players Wan Yunguo (2393) and Shen Siyuan (2337) respectively.
Aside from Dimakiling, Paciencia, Yunguo and Siyuan, other chess players with perfect 2.0 pointers were No.2 GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia, No.11 IM Grinatah P D S (2448) of India and No.25 Wang Li (2318) of China.
GM Azmaiparashvili trounced WGM Li Ruofan (2417) of China, IM Grinath nipped FM Terry Chua (2096) of Singapore while Wang shocked GM Wu Shaobin (2449) of Singapore, respectively.
Newly installed IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) beat WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2275) of Indonesia to raise his total to 1.5 points along with six others.
However, NM Rolando Andador, 1995 Philippine Junior champion suffered his second straight loss at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore.
In the third round, Paciencia will test the mettle of Azmaiparashvili, Dimakiling goes up against Yunguo, Sadorra opposite FM Graham Chua of Singapore, Paragua versus WGM Anya Korke of Hongkong and Gonzales takes on Jia Haoxiang of China.
The RP chess Singapore campaign would be possible with undying support of National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and former Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
FILIPINO International Masters Oliver Dimakiling (2491) and Enrique Paciencia (2431) hurdled their respective rivals, both using the advantageous white pieces to share top honors together with five others after the second round of 4th Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 late Monday in Singapore.
Dimakiling, who hails from Davao City defeated Lin Chen (2363) from China while the Leyte native Singapore based Paciencia upset No.3 GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) of India.
Unfortunately, GM Mark Paragua (2415) and IM Jayson Gonzales (2454) lost their second games to Chinese players Wan Yunguo (2393) and Shen Siyuan (2337) respectively.
Aside from Dimakiling, Paciencia, Yunguo and Siyuan, other chess players with perfect 2.0 pointers were No.2 GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia, No.11 IM Grinatah P D S (2448) of India and No.25 Wang Li (2318) of China.
GM Azmaiparashvili trounced WGM Li Ruofan (2417) of China, IM Grinath nipped FM Terry Chua (2096) of Singapore while Wang shocked GM Wu Shaobin (2449) of Singapore, respectively.
Newly installed IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) beat WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2275) of Indonesia to raise his total to 1.5 points along with six others.
However, NM Rolando Andador, 1995 Philippine Junior champion suffered his second straight loss at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore.
In the third round, Paciencia will test the mettle of Azmaiparashvili, Dimakiling goes up against Yunguo, Sadorra opposite FM Graham Chua of Singapore, Paragua versus WGM Anya Korke of Hongkong and Gonzales takes on Jia Haoxiang of China.
The RP chess Singapore campaign would be possible with undying support of National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and former Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Monday, December 17, 2007
SINGAPORE MASTERS ROUND 3
RP'S DIMAKILING SHARES TOP WITH GEORGIAN GM
Individual Standings after round 3:
3.0 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO)
2.5 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), IM Grinatah P D S (IND), R R Laxman (IND), Shen Siyuan (CHN), Wang Li (CHN)
2.0 points---GM Mark Paragua (RP), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), GM Zhang Zhong (SIN), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN), GM Sandipan Chanda (IND), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), WGM Li Ruofan (CHN), Lin Chen (CHN), Wan Yunguo (CHN)
FILIPINO International Master Oliver Dimakiling (2491) scored his third straight win in as many rounds that put him on top of the leader board along with his fourth round opponent No.2 GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia in the ongoing 4th Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore.
Dimakiling, who hails from Davao City stunned Lin Chen (2363) of China late Monday then subdued Wan Yunguo (2393) of China in yesterday's matches.
"I hope to do well in this event (Singapore Chess) and gain a possible GM norm," said Dimakiling yesterday in a text message to this writer. Dimakiling beat Hongkong's lone Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Anya Korke (2210) in the opening round on Monday's session.
Azmaiparashvili, on the other hand, trounced WGM Li Ruofan (2417) of China and IM Enrique Paciencia (2431), respectively.
The Leyte native Singapore based Paciencia conquered No.3 GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) of India in the second round late Monday while Yunguo disposed lone Filipino GM Mark Paragua (2415).
Sharing the limelight is newly installed IM and another Singapore based Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) who beat WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2275) of Indonesia and FM Graham Chua (2065) of Singapore, in order to raise his total of 2.5 points and climbed into a share of 3rd to 8th placers.
Other with 2.5 points are No.6 GM Dao Thien Hai (2530) of Vietnam, No.11 IM Grinatah P D S (2448) of India, No. 17 R R Laxman (2395) of India, No.22 Shen Siyuan (2337) and No.25 Wang Li (2318) of China.
Meanwhile, Paragua and IM Jayson Gonzales bounced back in contention by trouncing their respective rivals. Paragua demolished WGM Korke while Gonzales crushed Jia Haoxiang (2193) of China. Gonzales lost to Shen Siyuan in the second round.
NM Rolando Andador, 1995 Philippine Junior champion suffered his second straight loss at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore who also won his third match against Jonathan Ko (2090) of Singapore for his first win.
For the fourth round, Sadorra takes on Laxman, Paragua opposite Lin Chen (2363) of China, Gonzales versus top seed GM Zhang Zhong and Andador will test the mettle of FM Lim Ye Weng (2336) of Malaysia.
Report from Marlon Bernardino
Individual Standings after round 3:
3.0 points---IM Oliver Dimakiling (RP), GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (GEO)
2.5 points---IM Julio Catalino Sadorra (RP), GM Dao Thien Hai (VIE), IM Grinatah P D S (IND), R R Laxman (IND), Shen Siyuan (CHN), Wang Li (CHN)
2.0 points---GM Mark Paragua (RP), IM Jayson Gonzales (RP), IM Enrique Paciencia (RP), GM Zhang Zhong (SIN), GM Wu Shaobin (SIN), GM Sandipan Chanda (IND), GM Susanto Megaranto (INA), GM Nguyen Anh Dung (VIE), WGM Li Ruofan (CHN), Lin Chen (CHN), Wan Yunguo (CHN)
FILIPINO International Master Oliver Dimakiling (2491) scored his third straight win in as many rounds that put him on top of the leader board along with his fourth round opponent No.2 GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia in the ongoing 4th Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 in Singapore.
Dimakiling, who hails from Davao City stunned Lin Chen (2363) of China late Monday then subdued Wan Yunguo (2393) of China in yesterday's matches.
"I hope to do well in this event (Singapore Chess) and gain a possible GM norm," said Dimakiling yesterday in a text message to this writer. Dimakiling beat Hongkong's lone Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Anya Korke (2210) in the opening round on Monday's session.
Azmaiparashvili, on the other hand, trounced WGM Li Ruofan (2417) of China and IM Enrique Paciencia (2431), respectively.
The Leyte native Singapore based Paciencia conquered No.3 GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) of India in the second round late Monday while Yunguo disposed lone Filipino GM Mark Paragua (2415).
Sharing the limelight is newly installed IM and another Singapore based Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) who beat WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2275) of Indonesia and FM Graham Chua (2065) of Singapore, in order to raise his total of 2.5 points and climbed into a share of 3rd to 8th placers.
Other with 2.5 points are No.6 GM Dao Thien Hai (2530) of Vietnam, No.11 IM Grinatah P D S (2448) of India, No. 17 R R Laxman (2395) of India, No.22 Shen Siyuan (2337) and No.25 Wang Li (2318) of China.
Meanwhile, Paragua and IM Jayson Gonzales bounced back in contention by trouncing their respective rivals. Paragua demolished WGM Korke while Gonzales crushed Jia Haoxiang (2193) of China. Gonzales lost to Shen Siyuan in the second round.
NM Rolando Andador, 1995 Philippine Junior champion suffered his second straight loss at the hands of top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634) of Singapore who also won his third match against Jonathan Ko (2090) of Singapore for his first win.
For the fourth round, Sadorra takes on Laxman, Paragua opposite Lin Chen (2363) of China, Gonzales versus top seed GM Zhang Zhong and Andador will test the mettle of FM Lim Ye Weng (2336) of Malaysia.
Report from Marlon Bernardino
SINGAPORE MASTERS
PARAGUA, GONZALES IN HOT START
GM MARK PARAGUA and IM Jayson Gonzales of the Philippines got off to hot starts in the 4th Singapore Masters International Open Tournament 2007 yesterday in Singapore.
It's the only annual major open chess tournament in Singapore which attracted a total of 42 players in the Open division thatincludes eight (8) GMs, four (4) WGMs, nine (9) IMs, 1 (one) WIM, and 6 (six) FMs.
The no.7 pick Paragua (Elo rating of 2514), the 2003 Vietnam Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) most bemedalled athlete with three gold, had no trouble against the Russian Kiril Kuznetsov (2252) using the black pieces. The Sgt. Catolos, Cubao, Quezon City based Paragua meets China's Wan Yun Guo (2393), winner over Singaporean Jarred Neubronner (2097), in one of the marquee showdowns in the next round.
Gonzales (2454) was in awesome form against another host bet Timothy Chan (2231) using the white pieces to set up a clash with another Chinese who is untitled but a dangerous player, Shen Siyuan (2337), who upset top seed GM Zhang Zhong (2634), China's former top woodpusher but currently representing Singapore. Gonzales needs just one (1) GM result to complete his GM status.
National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and former Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. who supports the RP chess team's Singapore campaign, produced two Filipino GMs under his term---Wesley So and Darwin Laylo.
IM Oliver Dimakiling (2491) who hails from Davao City also showed great touch in whipping Hongkong's lone Woman Grandmaster (WGM) Anya Korke, and will next face Lin Chen (2363) also from China, who outplayed Jonathan Koh (2090) of Singapore.
Also with full point is Singapore based Pinoy IM Enrique Paciencia (2431) who routed FM Dominic Lo (2151) of Singapore. His next assignment is No.3 GM Chanda Sandipan (2593) of India, who nipped WGM Nguyen Thi Than An (2324) of Vietnam.
Another Singapore based Pinoy IM candidate Julio Catalino Sadorra (2414) settled for a draw with Daniel Chan (2137) of Singapore and will test the mettle of WIM Irine Kharisma Sukandar (2275) of Indonesia who also split the point with WFM Liu Yang (2056) of Singapore.
NM Rolando Andador, a native of Talisay City, Negros Occidental bowed to No.10 GM Wu Shaobin (2449) of Singapore. The 1995 Philippine Junior champion Andador, who is fresh from obtaining his first International Master (IM) norm in the recently concluded Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. International Open Chess Championships at the Duty Free Mall in Paranaque City aims to bounce back in contention by facing another tough opponent---GM Zhang Zhong.
Other notable winners in the opening round were No.2 GM Zurab Azmaiparashvili (2606) of Georgia, No. 5 GM Nguyen Anh Dung (2537) and No. 6 GM Dao Thien Hai (2530) of Vietnam. Meanwhile, No.4 GM Susanto Megaranto (2569) of Indonesia was upset by Wang Li (2318) of China.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Sunday, December 9, 2007
NCFP EXECUTIVE CHESS 9TH LEG
NM MANAOG TOPS 9TH LEG OF NCFP EXECUTIVE CHESS
Final Standings:
NM Stewart Manaog 5.5 points; Leodegario Ricana, Dr. Jenny Mayor,Trine Olmedo, NM Ernesto Fernandez 4.0 points; Leonardo Navarro 3.5 points; Dennis San Juan 3.0 points; Gerry Cabellon, NM Samuel Estimo 2.5 points…
VETERAN campaigner Stewart Manaog settled for a quick draw against fellow National Master Ernesto Fernandez in the sixth and final round to rule the just concluded 9th leg of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Executives and Professionals Chess Challenge at the Greenhouse Grill, 31 Matalino St., Diliman, Quezon City, on Saturday.
Manaog posted a final tally of 5.5 points with five wins and one draw after six rounds of play to claim his first NCFP Executives and Professionals Chess title in this event which is sponsored by NCFP director and Benguet Governor Raul Molintas and supported by NCFP chair Rep. Matias Defensor, GM Eugene Torre, IM Rudy Tan Cardoso and Cebu sportsman Matias Aznar.
Fernandez, on the other hand finished tied for second to fifth placers after accumulating 4.0 points in the company of Leodegario Ricana, Dr. Jenny Mayor and Trine Olmedo.
Meanwhile, all is set for the staging of Marikina City Age Group Invitational Chess Championships which offers a total pot prize of P15,500 slated on December 23 at the Marikina Sports Complex in Marikina City.
The champion here gets P2,000, the runner-up likewise receive P1,500, third placers pocket P1,000, fourth placer receive P800, fifth placer receive P700 and sixth placer receive P500.
Category prizes worth P1,500 awaits the top Under 8, Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18.
Please contact mobile no. 0919 626-8874 and tel.no . 933-6719 for complete details.
Report from MARLON BERNARDINO
Thursday, December 6, 2007
PICHAY CUP + NCFP CHESS TILT
MARK PARAGUA BEAT FELLOW GM LI CHAO OF CHINA TO CLAIM SOLO SECOND
Standings after seven rounds:
6 points -- H. Ni (China)
5.5 -- M. Paragua (RP)
5 -- R. Antonio (RP), E. Torre (RP), W. So (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), P. Gomez (RP), Z. Zhong (Singapore), D. T. Hai (Vietnam)
4.5 -- D. Laylo (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), O. Barbosa (RP), F. Donguines (RP), D. Causo (RP), E. Maghami (Iran), N.A. Dung (Vietnam), Q. Huang (China), W. Zhou (China), L. Chao (China)
WHILE most of the top seeds played cautiously, GM Mark Paragua went for the kill early and was amply rewarded. Paragua rediscovered his old brilliance to subdue GM Li Chao of China in the pivotal seventh round to vault into solo second place behind top seed GM Ni Hua of China in the third Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup international chess championship at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City.
The 23-year-old campaigner from Meycauyan, Bulacan played superbly with the black pieces, squeezing out a morale-boosting win after only 24 moves of the Sicilian defense and handing Li a stunning setback since ruling the second President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup chess tournament last month.
With the win, Paragua improved to 5.5 points, only half a point behind Ni Hua, who settled for a draw with GM Zhang Zhong of Singapore in their top board encounter.
Asia's first GM Eugene Torre made short work of unheralded David Elorta to barge into a tie for third to ninth places with five points with fellow Filipinos GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., IMs Wesley So and Julio Catalino Sadorra and NM John Paul Gomez and Zhang Zhong and GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam.
In crucial eighth-roundmatches, it will be Ni Hua against Paragua, Zhang Zhng against Dao, Abntonio against So, Torre against Gomez and Ghaem against Sadorra. Antonio, who is hoping to redeem himself from a mediocre finish in the PGMA Cup, and Sadorra drew their match after only nine moves of the Bogo Indian. So, still seeking the elusive GM title, also halved the point with GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam , while Gomez crushed compatriot Hamed Nouri.
Comebacking IM Ronald Dableo whipped Yu Lie of China to lead seven other Filipinos still in the hunt for the top prize of US$5,000 with 4.5 points.
Also in the group are GM Darwin Laylo, IMs Jayson Gonzales and Richard Bitoon, NMS Emmanuel Senador, Oliver Barbosa and Deniel Causo and FM Fernie Donguines.
Lalyo, still fresh from a first-round campaign in the World Chess Cup in KHanty-Mansiysk, Russia, drew with Bitoon; Gonzales halved the point with GM Ehna Ghame Maghami of Iran; Senador beat IM Tirto of Indonesia; Barbosa drew with GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam; Donguines beat Zhang Xiaowen of China; and Causo stopped WGM Wang Yu of China.
Other seventh-round winners were WIM Irene Sukandar o findoneisa and Filipinos Rolando Nolte, Barlo Nadera, Ronald Bancod, Arlan Cabe, Randy Segarra, Merben Roque, Oliver Dimakiling, Ernesto Fernandez, Petronio Roca, Beverly Medoza, Michael Boris Diez, Cristy Bernales and RJ Magallanes.
RODRIGUEZ TRY TO DEFEND HIS TITLE THIS WEEKEND IN NCFP CHESS
PHILIPPINE NAVY stalwart Christopher Rodriguez try to defend his title hwen the 9th leg of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Executives and Professionals Chess Challenge gets underway on Saturday at the Greenhouse Grill, Matalino Street, Diliman, Quezon City.
Rodriguez, head coach of Adamson University Varsity Chess Team took the 8th leg of NCFP Chess last weekend after nothing five points in six games of play, half point ahead with solo place NCFP executive director lawyer Sammy Estimo who tote 4.5 points.
Chess-playing executives nationwide have confirmed their participation in this event sponsored by NCFP director and Benguet Governor Raul Molintas and supported by NCFP chair Rep. Matias Defensor, GM Eugene Torre, IM Rudy Tan Cardoso and Cebu
sportsman Matias Aznar.
Appliances, trophies, gift certificates and 7 slots to the Grand Finals early next year are at stake in this tourney.
Participants may call GM Torre (09228822870), Doc Jenny Mayor (09194782209) or
Estimo (09159360354).
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
Standings after seven rounds:
6 points -- H. Ni (China)
5.5 -- M. Paragua (RP)
5 -- R. Antonio (RP), E. Torre (RP), W. So (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), P. Gomez (RP), Z. Zhong (Singapore), D. T. Hai (Vietnam)
4.5 -- D. Laylo (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), R. Dableo (RP), J. Gonzales (RP), E. Senador (RP), O. Barbosa (RP), F. Donguines (RP), D. Causo (RP), E. Maghami (Iran), N.A. Dung (Vietnam), Q. Huang (China), W. Zhou (China), L. Chao (China)
WHILE most of the top seeds played cautiously, GM Mark Paragua went for the kill early and was amply rewarded. Paragua rediscovered his old brilliance to subdue GM Li Chao of China in the pivotal seventh round to vault into solo second place behind top seed GM Ni Hua of China in the third Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup international chess championship at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City.
The 23-year-old campaigner from Meycauyan, Bulacan played superbly with the black pieces, squeezing out a morale-boosting win after only 24 moves of the Sicilian defense and handing Li a stunning setback since ruling the second President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup chess tournament last month.
With the win, Paragua improved to 5.5 points, only half a point behind Ni Hua, who settled for a draw with GM Zhang Zhong of Singapore in their top board encounter.
Asia's first GM Eugene Torre made short work of unheralded David Elorta to barge into a tie for third to ninth places with five points with fellow Filipinos GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., IMs Wesley So and Julio Catalino Sadorra and NM John Paul Gomez and Zhang Zhong and GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam.
In crucial eighth-roundmatches, it will be Ni Hua against Paragua, Zhang Zhng against Dao, Abntonio against So, Torre against Gomez and Ghaem against Sadorra. Antonio, who is hoping to redeem himself from a mediocre finish in the PGMA Cup, and Sadorra drew their match after only nine moves of the Bogo Indian. So, still seeking the elusive GM title, also halved the point with GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam , while Gomez crushed compatriot Hamed Nouri.
Comebacking IM Ronald Dableo whipped Yu Lie of China to lead seven other Filipinos still in the hunt for the top prize of US$5,000 with 4.5 points.
Also in the group are GM Darwin Laylo, IMs Jayson Gonzales and Richard Bitoon, NMS Emmanuel Senador, Oliver Barbosa and Deniel Causo and FM Fernie Donguines.
Lalyo, still fresh from a first-round campaign in the World Chess Cup in KHanty-Mansiysk, Russia, drew with Bitoon; Gonzales halved the point with GM Ehna Ghame Maghami of Iran; Senador beat IM Tirto of Indonesia; Barbosa drew with GM Nguyen Anh Dung of Vietnam; Donguines beat Zhang Xiaowen of China; and Causo stopped WGM Wang Yu of China.
Other seventh-round winners were WIM Irene Sukandar o findoneisa and Filipinos Rolando Nolte, Barlo Nadera, Ronald Bancod, Arlan Cabe, Randy Segarra, Merben Roque, Oliver Dimakiling, Ernesto Fernandez, Petronio Roca, Beverly Medoza, Michael Boris Diez, Cristy Bernales and RJ Magallanes.
RODRIGUEZ TRY TO DEFEND HIS TITLE THIS WEEKEND IN NCFP CHESS
PHILIPPINE NAVY stalwart Christopher Rodriguez try to defend his title hwen the 9th leg of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Executives and Professionals Chess Challenge gets underway on Saturday at the Greenhouse Grill, Matalino Street, Diliman, Quezon City.
Rodriguez, head coach of Adamson University Varsity Chess Team took the 8th leg of NCFP Chess last weekend after nothing five points in six games of play, half point ahead with solo place NCFP executive director lawyer Sammy Estimo who tote 4.5 points.
Chess-playing executives nationwide have confirmed their participation in this event sponsored by NCFP director and Benguet Governor Raul Molintas and supported by NCFP chair Rep. Matias Defensor, GM Eugene Torre, IM Rudy Tan Cardoso and Cebu
sportsman Matias Aznar.
Appliances, trophies, gift certificates and 7 slots to the Grand Finals early next year are at stake in this tourney.
Participants may call GM Torre (09228822870), Doc Jenny Mayor (09194782209) or
Estimo (09159360354).
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
Sunday, December 2, 2007
LATEST CHESS NEWS AS OF DECEMBER 2
RODRIGUEZ TOPS 8TH LEG OF NCFP EXECUTIVE CHESS
Final Standings: (six round Swiss-system)
Christopher Rodriguez 5.0 pts.; NM Sammy Estimo 4.5 pts; Dennis San Juan, NM Dennis Gutierrez, NM Dante Zuniga, Dr. Jenny Mayor 4.0 pts.; WIM Christine Rose Mariano, Trine Olmedo, John-John Mendoza, NM Marlon Bernardino 3.5 pts.
PHILPPINE NAVY stalwart Christopher Rodriguez dominated the just concluded 8th leg of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Executives and Professionals Chess Challenge at the Greenhouse Grill, 31 Matalino St., Diliman, Quezon City , on Saturday.
Rodriguez, also the head coach of Adamson University Varsity Chess Team compiled with a total of five points after six games of play in the event sponsored by NCFP chairman Rep. Matias Defensor and supported by Cebu sportsman Bombi Aznar, NCFP vice president Ed Madrid and directors Benguet Governor Raul Molintas , Gen. Art Carrillo and Jess Torre.
Two-time champion NM Samuel Estimo, executive director of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines settled for solo second with 4.5 points.
Rounding up the top ten winners were Dennis San Juan (3rd), NM Dennis Gutierrez (4th), NM Dante Zuniga (5th), Dr. Jenny Mayor (6th), WIM Christine Rose Mariano (7th), Trine Olmedo (8th), John-John Mendoza (9th), and sports writer and NM Marlon Bernardino (10th).
According to International Arbiter Joey Moseros, the triumvirate (Rodriguez, Mariano and Mendoza) will advance to the Grand Finals next year along with Danny Geronimo, Manny Batalla, Johnny Bargo and Danny Ponay.
Meanwhile, the registration of Quezon City Inter-Barangay Chessfest is now on full swing. This event is sponsored by Quezon City Majority floor leader and 4th district councilor Ariel Inton, the chess tournament is slated on December 13, 14, 15 and 16 at the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City. Registration fee is P1,000 for each team.
Participants may call GM Eugene Torre (09228822870), Dr. Mayor (09194782209) or Atty. Estimo (09159360354)
SADORRA UPSETS GM ZHANG IN PICHAY CHESS CUP
Standings after two rounds:
2 points -- R. Antonio (RP), D. Laylo (RP), W. So (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), O. Barbosa (RP), D. Elorta (RP), H. Ni (China), E. Ghaem (Iran), Tirto (Indonesia), Q. Huang (China), D. T. Hai (Vietnam), R. Li (Singapore) 1.5 -- R. Dableo (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), B. Nadera (RP), I. Adante (RP), L. Chao (China), N.A. Dung (Vietnam), G. Xiaobing (China)
SINGAPORE BASED International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra stunned second seed GM Zhang Zhong of Singapore in the second round of the third Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup Intenational Open chess championships at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City yesterday.
Sadorra , one of the country's finest young players still seeking to gain worldwide recognition, toppled Zhong (ELO 2634) in only 48 moves of the Nimzo Indian to take the headstart in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under Pichay and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino.
The Singapore-based Sadorra also hurdled his first-round assignment against unhearalded R.J. Magallanes.
"I hope I can continue to play well," said Sadorra, who is best remembered for beating top seed GM Ni Hua of China also in the second round of the second President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup chess championship held last week.
Unheralded David Elorta aso made hi spresnece felt with back-to-back upset wins over Hame Nouri and Weiq Zhou fo China.
Five other Filipino campaigners -- GMs Rogelio Antonio Jr. and Darwin Laylo, IMs Wesley So and Oliver Dimakiling and NM Oliver Barbosa -- also posted back-to-back victories to share the lead with Sadorra, GM Ni Hua, GM Ehsan Ghame Maghami of Iran, Tirto of Indonesia, WIM Huang Qian of China, WGM Li Ruofan of Singapore and GM Dao THien Hai of Vietnam.
Antonio, still the country's highest-rated player with an ELO of 2540 despite a so-so performance in the GMA Cup, whipped compatriot Arlan Cabe in the first round and IM Halay Taufik of Indonesia in the second round.
Laylo, who is still smarting from a first-round loss to GM Etienne Bacrot of France in the World Chess Cup in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia, swept his fist two matches against Mirabeau Maga and Voltaire Sevilano.
So dumped Rhobel Legaspi and Rolando Nolte, Dimakiling crushed Fernandito Pialana and NM Petronio Roca and Barbosa trounced Boris Michael Diez and Jason Salubre.
Six foreign bets, led by GMs Ni Hua and Ehsan Ghaem Maghami of Iran, also kept their perfect record by humbling Ernesto Fernandez and Sander Severino, in the second round, respectively.
In the first round, Ni humbled Dino Ballecer and Ghaem downed FM Fernie Donguines.
Also in the early lead were GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam, Tirto of Indonesia, WGM Li Ruofan of Singapore and WIM Huang Qian of China.
GMs Eugene Torre and Mark Paragua also bounced back from a pair of upset losses in the opening round by downing their respective second-round opponents -- WIM Irene Sukandar of Indonesia and Pialan.
Late Saturday, Torre lost to No. 40 seed Shen Siyuan of China and Paragua fell to No. 43 WGM Gu Xiaobing of China.
Also striking back were GM-candidate Jayson Gonzales, who beat Diez; IM Chito Garma, who bested Magallanes; Donguines, who nipped WIM Beverly Mendoza; Efren Bagamasbad, who stopped Christopher Castellano; Nouri, who repulsed Richard de la Cruz; and Maga, who overwhelmed Leo Ausan.
FM SALES TIES FOR 2ND TO 6TH PLACE IN MELBOURNE TOURNEY
FILIPINO Fide Master Jesse Noel Sales tied for the second to sixth prizes in the Ellwood Bendigo Open, with Australian GM Darryl Johansen capturing the first prize.
FM Sales was the lone Filipino titled player in the Melbourne tournament, which attracted 86 players in all, including two grandmasters, two international masters and four other Fide masters.
GM Johansen finished in solo first with 6.0 points, followed by five runners-up with 5.5 each led by Serbian GM Dehan Antic,
With GM Antic were Australian IMs Stephen Solomon and Leonid Sandler, FM Igor Bjelobrk, also of Australia, and FM Sales of the Philippines.
Eight others tied for the seventh to 14th places, namely, Igor Goldenberg, Mirko Rujevic, Dusan Stojic, Edsil Skiotis, David Hacche, Andrew Brown and Dean Hogg. They had 5.0 each. Sales migrated to Australia two or three years ago.
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
Final Standings: (six round Swiss-system)
Christopher Rodriguez 5.0 pts.; NM Sammy Estimo 4.5 pts; Dennis San Juan, NM Dennis Gutierrez, NM Dante Zuniga, Dr. Jenny Mayor 4.0 pts.; WIM Christine Rose Mariano, Trine Olmedo, John-John Mendoza, NM Marlon Bernardino 3.5 pts.
PHILPPINE NAVY stalwart Christopher Rodriguez dominated the just concluded 8th leg of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) Executives and Professionals Chess Challenge at the Greenhouse Grill, 31 Matalino St., Diliman, Quezon City , on Saturday.
Rodriguez, also the head coach of Adamson University Varsity Chess Team compiled with a total of five points after six games of play in the event sponsored by NCFP chairman Rep. Matias Defensor and supported by Cebu sportsman Bombi Aznar, NCFP vice president Ed Madrid and directors Benguet Governor Raul Molintas , Gen. Art Carrillo and Jess Torre.
Two-time champion NM Samuel Estimo, executive director of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines settled for solo second with 4.5 points.
Rounding up the top ten winners were Dennis San Juan (3rd), NM Dennis Gutierrez (4th), NM Dante Zuniga (5th), Dr. Jenny Mayor (6th), WIM Christine Rose Mariano (7th), Trine Olmedo (8th), John-John Mendoza (9th), and sports writer and NM Marlon Bernardino (10th).
According to International Arbiter Joey Moseros, the triumvirate (Rodriguez, Mariano and Mendoza) will advance to the Grand Finals next year along with Danny Geronimo, Manny Batalla, Johnny Bargo and Danny Ponay.
Meanwhile, the registration of Quezon City Inter-Barangay Chessfest is now on full swing. This event is sponsored by Quezon City Majority floor leader and 4th district councilor Ariel Inton, the chess tournament is slated on December 13, 14, 15 and 16 at the Amoranto Sports Complex in Quezon City. Registration fee is P1,000 for each team.
Participants may call GM Eugene Torre (09228822870), Dr. Mayor (09194782209) or Atty. Estimo (09159360354)
SADORRA UPSETS GM ZHANG IN PICHAY CHESS CUP
Standings after two rounds:
2 points -- R. Antonio (RP), D. Laylo (RP), W. So (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), O. Barbosa (RP), D. Elorta (RP), H. Ni (China), E. Ghaem (Iran), Tirto (Indonesia), Q. Huang (China), D. T. Hai (Vietnam), R. Li (Singapore) 1.5 -- R. Dableo (RP), R. Bitoon (RP), B. Nadera (RP), I. Adante (RP), L. Chao (China), N.A. Dung (Vietnam), G. Xiaobing (China)
SINGAPORE BASED International Master Julio Catalino Sadorra stunned second seed GM Zhang Zhong of Singapore in the second round of the third Prospero Pichay Jr. Cup Intenational Open chess championships at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City yesterday.
Sadorra , one of the country's finest young players still seeking to gain worldwide recognition, toppled Zhong (ELO 2634) in only 48 moves of the Nimzo Indian to take the headstart in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under Pichay and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino.
The Singapore-based Sadorra also hurdled his first-round assignment against unhearalded R.J. Magallanes.
"I hope I can continue to play well," said Sadorra, who is best remembered for beating top seed GM Ni Hua of China also in the second round of the second President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup chess championship held last week.
Unheralded David Elorta aso made hi spresnece felt with back-to-back upset wins over Hame Nouri and Weiq Zhou fo China.
Five other Filipino campaigners -- GMs Rogelio Antonio Jr. and Darwin Laylo, IMs Wesley So and Oliver Dimakiling and NM Oliver Barbosa -- also posted back-to-back victories to share the lead with Sadorra, GM Ni Hua, GM Ehsan Ghame Maghami of Iran, Tirto of Indonesia, WIM Huang Qian of China, WGM Li Ruofan of Singapore and GM Dao THien Hai of Vietnam.
Antonio, still the country's highest-rated player with an ELO of 2540 despite a so-so performance in the GMA Cup, whipped compatriot Arlan Cabe in the first round and IM Halay Taufik of Indonesia in the second round.
Laylo, who is still smarting from a first-round loss to GM Etienne Bacrot of France in the World Chess Cup in Khanty-Mansiysk, Russia, swept his fist two matches against Mirabeau Maga and Voltaire Sevilano.
So dumped Rhobel Legaspi and Rolando Nolte, Dimakiling crushed Fernandito Pialana and NM Petronio Roca and Barbosa trounced Boris Michael Diez and Jason Salubre.
Six foreign bets, led by GMs Ni Hua and Ehsan Ghaem Maghami of Iran, also kept their perfect record by humbling Ernesto Fernandez and Sander Severino, in the second round, respectively.
In the first round, Ni humbled Dino Ballecer and Ghaem downed FM Fernie Donguines.
Also in the early lead were GM Dao Thien Hai of Vietnam, Tirto of Indonesia, WGM Li Ruofan of Singapore and WIM Huang Qian of China.
GMs Eugene Torre and Mark Paragua also bounced back from a pair of upset losses in the opening round by downing their respective second-round opponents -- WIM Irene Sukandar of Indonesia and Pialan.
Late Saturday, Torre lost to No. 40 seed Shen Siyuan of China and Paragua fell to No. 43 WGM Gu Xiaobing of China.
Also striking back were GM-candidate Jayson Gonzales, who beat Diez; IM Chito Garma, who bested Magallanes; Donguines, who nipped WIM Beverly Mendoza; Efren Bagamasbad, who stopped Christopher Castellano; Nouri, who repulsed Richard de la Cruz; and Maga, who overwhelmed Leo Ausan.
FM SALES TIES FOR 2ND TO 6TH PLACE IN MELBOURNE TOURNEY
FILIPINO Fide Master Jesse Noel Sales tied for the second to sixth prizes in the Ellwood Bendigo Open, with Australian GM Darryl Johansen capturing the first prize.
FM Sales was the lone Filipino titled player in the Melbourne tournament, which attracted 86 players in all, including two grandmasters, two international masters and four other Fide masters.
GM Johansen finished in solo first with 6.0 points, followed by five runners-up with 5.5 each led by Serbian GM Dehan Antic,
With GM Antic were Australian IMs Stephen Solomon and Leonid Sandler, FM Igor Bjelobrk, also of Australia, and FM Sales of the Philippines.
Eight others tied for the seventh to 14th places, namely, Igor Goldenberg, Mirko Rujevic, Dusan Stojic, Edsil Skiotis, David Hacche, Andrew Brown and Dean Hogg. They had 5.0 each. Sales migrated to Australia two or three years ago.
Reports from MARLON BERNARDINO
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