IM Chito Garma defeated Lennon Hart Salgados in the sixth and final round to win the 5th AQ Prime Standard Open chess tournament on 16th February 2025 at the Robinson Metro East in Pasig City, Philippines. In photo are, from left, lawyer Aldwin Alegre, IM Chito Danilo Garma and IA/FST/FA Rudy Listana Ibañez.
Garma prevailed after 53 moves of a seldom used Budapest defense with the black pieces. Garma finished the two day FIDE Standard Open chess tournament hosted by Atty Aldwin Alegre with perfect 6.0 points.
Thus, Garma, the reigning Portugal World Senior blitz champion pocketed the top prize of P10,000 and a trophy for his effort.
IM Chito Danilo Garma (right) pondering his next moves against Lennon Hart Salgados. Looking on are Vrigen Gil Ruaya and IA/FST/FA Rudy Listana Ibañez (right).
The 60-year-old Garma already has two Grandmaster norms.
Garma, a former University of Manila standout, also beat Kara Meneses, Andrew San Antonio, Michael Gastala, Phil Martin Casiguran and Alexis Emil Maribao, respectively.
Kevin Mirano beat Karlycris Clarito Jr. in the last round to score 5.5 points for solo 2nd place. Mirano, a member of the multi-titled Philippine Army chess team received P7,000 and a trophy.
The third to 10th placers were Maribao (5.0), Salgados (5.0), IM Barlo Nadera (5.0), Jerico Santiaguel (5.0), Jerish John Velarde (5.0), Christian Tolosa (5.0), Clarito (4.5) and Janmyl Dilan Tisado (4.5), respectively.
Edwin Caballero won the Top Senior 55 years old and above category.
The chess tournament attracted 126 players. The tournament director was IA/FST/FA Rudy Listana Ibañez . -Marlon Bernardino-