National Master Michael Jan Stephen Rosalem Inigo emerged as the champion in the “Batang Pinoy” Blitz Chess Championship held November 24, 2024 in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines.
Inigo, who plays for the City of Dumaguete , pocketed the gold medal for winning the tournament with 85 youth chess players participating.
He had a perfect campaign after tallying 5.0 points in the five-round Swiss system competition with a time control of three minutes plus two seconds increment.
Inigo defeated Juncin Estrella (City of General Trias), Daniel Gil Eclavia (Zambales), Clint Calvin Atoc ( City of General Santos), Aaron Limpangog (City of Davao) and Allan Gabriel Hilario (City of Meycauayan).
Cedric Kahlel Abris, representing the City of Mandaluyong, went on to place second overall with similar perfect 5.0 points.
Abris hacked out victories over Emmanuel Endrinal (City of Cabuyao), Denver Billedo (Ilocos Sur), Carl Jasphyr Lloyd (City of Digos), Jayrald Jade Antiporta (City of Paranaque) and Lance Nathaniel Orlina (Negros).
Inigo took the title plus the gold medal by virtue of a higher tie break points against runner-up place and silver medallist Abris.
Inigo,16, a grade 11 student of Lyceum of the Philippines University Cavite International School, played under the watchful eyes of coaches Emerson Belardo Sayaman and Voltaire Marc Paraguya while Abris,17, Grade 12 student of La Salle Greenhills played under the guidance of coach Cruz.
Meanwhile, Karlycris Clarito Jr., representing Pasig City edged fellow 4.5 pointers Oscar Joseph Cantela, playing for Quezon City to romp home with the bronze medal.
Cantela and Lenmuel Jay Adena won the team gold for Quezon City, Clarito teamed up with Andrew James Toledo to take the silver for Pasig City while Rigil Kent Rosell Pahamtang partnered with David Kiel Briones to win the team bronze for Lipa City.
Tournament Director was NCFP CEO/Executive Director GM Jayson Gonzales.-Marlon Bernardino