By Eduard Basilonia
ROXAS CITY, Capiz — Toby Allister Lopez, a young chess prodigy from Barangay Sibaguan, Roxas City, secured the championship trophy in the 13-under category of the “Rapido de Ajedrez” chess tournament, held at SM City Mall, Roxas City, on August 18. Lopez earned 5 points in the tournament, showcasing his exceptional skills.
The event was sponsored by Maayon Mayor Raymond D. Malapajo, who also serves as the president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) Capiz Chapter. The tournament was organized by the Great Thinkers Chess Club (GTCC) of Capiz.
13-Under Category Winners:
- 1st Runner-up: Zac Gabriel Avelino
- 2nd Runner-up: Adrian Bigornia
- 3rd Runner-up: Paul Benedict Soberano
- 4th Runner-up: Lance Bellosillo
- 5th Runner-up: Scot Philip Gibson
- 6th Runner-up: Nil Schester Bayaban
- 7th Runner-up: Mery Cris Francisco
- 8th Runner-up: Faith Beatrice Cerado
- 9th Runner-up: Cyrix Jhay Deloviar
Top Kiddie Players (7-under):
- Female: Lady Chery Solite Litang
- Male: Faith Emmanuel Cam
In the 14-and-above category, Patrick Panaligan of Barangay Linao, Panay, Capiz, emerged victorious, clinching the championship trophy with a perfect score of six points. Panaligan also recently won the “Capisnon Chess Classico” title on August 11.
14-and-Above Category Winners:
- 1st Runner-up: Chester Acuyong
- 2nd Runner-up: Francisco Lamayo Jr.
- 3rd Runner-up: Omer Placer
- 4th Runner-up: Engr. Michael Falsis
- 5th Runner-up: Mark Christian Magbanua
- 6th Runner-up: John Lester Cadelena
- 7th Runner-up: Engr. Anthony Arcangeles
- 8th Runner-up: Ariel Andrada
- 9th Runner-up: Lumar Avelino
Top Junior Player (19-under): Franz Cedrick Dordas
Top Female Player: Concepcion Fajanil
Top Senior Player: Tomas Obligar Jr.
The event was graced by several veteran chess players from Capiz, including National Master Francis Jocson, Engr. Anthony Arcangeles, Felixberto Baguyo Jr., Lumar Avelino, and Allan Tutica, all from Roxas City.
Capiz Governor Fredenil “Oto” Castro also attended to show his support for the event.