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GM Joey Antonio Wins 3rd D’ Engineer’s Cup Rapid Chess Tournament

GM Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. lived up to his top billing and finished undefeated in the 3rd D’ Engineer’s Cup rapid chess tournament dubbed as the Armageddon Battle of Champions held March 8, 2025 at the Koten Enterprises Inc. Corporate office in F.B. Harrison Street, Pasay City, Philippines.


The 12-time Philippine Open Champion Antonio (right) beat journeyman Shewin Tiu (left) in the finals.
For his feat, Antonio pocketed P8,000 and a painting from Life ‘N Art, plus a gold medal.  The runner-up Tiu, on the other hand,received P4,000 and a silver medal in this tournament that drew 16 participants.
Antonio rode on a blistering start as he hurdled his first three opponents – Joseph Lawrence Rivera (2-0), International Master Chito Danilo Garma (2-0) and Tiu (2-0) to move within a win of a finals berth from the winners’ side.
Tiu bounced back from that loss with a 2-0 win over youthful Jeremy Marticio, thus keeping his hopes for the coveted crown.
There, Antonio showed nerves of steel and delivered when it mattered by trouncing Tiu in their rematch in the finals.
The 16-man Armageddon Battle of Champions had a rapid rating average over 2000 including IM Jose Efren Bagamasbad, IM Angelo Young, FM Narquingden Reyes, NM Marc Christian Nazario, NM Edmund Gatus, Narquingel “Archie” Reyes, Mark Gerald Reyes, John Andrew Garcia, Eric Mordido, Erwin Calar and Janmyl Tisado.
The 63 year old Antonio is set to compete in another Armageddon format dubbed as DG’s Cup 2025 Invitational Chess Tournament to be held on Friday, March 14, 2025 at the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) Auditorium, Double Dragon Center West Building, DD Meridian Park, Macapagal Avenue in Pasay City, Philippines.
“Armageddon chess is a unique variant in which the player with the black pieces wins in the case of a drawn game. The player with the white pieces receives an initial time advantage on the clock. If they fail to convert the game into a win, they suffer a loss even with a draw. This rule, adopted by the World Chess Federation and other chess federations, ensures that the game has a decisive outcome, ultimately determining the tournament’s victor,” said tournament director Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) National Past President Engr. Allan Anthony  Alvarez.


Earlier, Asia’s First GM Eugene Torre and Shimmer & Shield Car Coating President/CEO Jeff Bugayong made the ceremonial moves kicking off the  one-day tournament also graced by PRBEE Chairman Francis Mapile, PTC Country Registrar Romulo Agatep, GM Antonio, former Philippine Ambassador to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Maldives Leo Tito Ausan Jr., PTC President Federico Monsada and PSME National Past President Engr. Roger Reyes.
Chief Arbiter was NA Almario Marlon Quiroz Bernardino Jr. assisted by NM Romeo Alcodia, Rod Sulit and Brian Angelo Young.-Marlon Bernardino-

Tristan Jared Cervero Wins March to Remember Rapid Chess Tournament

Tristan Jared Cervero won the “March to Remember Rapid Chess Tournament” held March 8, 2025 at the QGym, Concepcion Dos, Marikina City, Philippines. In photo, Senator Koko Pimentel (left) shakes hands with Domingo Santos better known as Tatay Domeng, 97 years old, the oldest chess player in Marikina City.
Cervero pocketed the P7,000 purse and the trophy for winning the tournament which saw 220 participants.
He had a perfect campaign after tallying 7.0 points in the seven-round Swiss system competition.
Cervero defeated Nolasco Dialogo, Zarex Celis III, Reynaldo Aguirre, Ruel Sto. Domingo, Gabriel James Cartel, Mark Christian Mesina and Carlo Caranyagan.
The 26 years old Cervero is an AB Interdisciplinary Studies graduate student of Ateneo De Manila University.
Noel Geronimo’s  second place finish earned him P5,000, while the third place went to Joven Balsalubre with similar 6.5 points to earn P3,000.
The fourth to 13th placers who got 6.0 ponts each were Mark Christian Mesina, Mark Anthony Libramante, Carlo Caranyagan, Carl Jaedrianne Ancheta, Jhon Eirrol Poquiz, Gabriel James Cartel, Jayson Esparagonza, Rafael Lobitana, Jan Roldan Oriendo and Rolando Tenorio while Denniel Penafiel, Rexmon Morados, April Joy Ramos and Crispin Lambino finished the tournament with similar 5.5 points.


Domingo Santos, 97, better known as Tatay Domeng, the oldest player in Marikina City defeated the 5 year old Ecxzel Payson in one of the highlights of the event organized by Marikina Chess Association led by sportsman Johnny “Joel” Gaudia backed up by Sen. Koko Pimentel, an avid chess enthusiast.
Tournament Director was Isagani De Ramos assisted by Chief Arbiter NA Ranier Pascual.-Marlon Bernardino-

Team Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental Win ACAPI Online Chess Tournament 

The Sinacaban,  Misamis Occidental ruled the 3rd conference of the Association of Chess Amateurs in the Philippines Inc. (ACAPI) online chess tournament dubbed as C/INSP. Diosdado Morales Jr. Memorial Chess Tournament which was held February 28, 2025 at Chess.com Platform.
Cyrus Vladiimir Francisco led the chess team to the championship as the Engr. Billy Joe Ereno -coached squad also featured Abdul Halil II Sabo Abdullah, Gabriel Sano, John Percival Chua, Johnny Wellem Carzano, Apollo Agapay, Elizardo Paslon, Michael Tinga, Jarfinel Amodia, Rodney Opada, Julius Ablin and Jefte Crebillo.
Francisco, the pride of University of the Philippines tallied nine points as the Sinacaban, Misamis Occidental team edged the Panabo Knights Chess Club, 49-47, in an epic battle of ACAPI online chess tournament which was founded by Engr. Rey Cris Urbiztondo.
Thailand based Mohamad Sacar game high of nine points was not good enough to power the Henry Roger Lopez mentored Panabo Knights Chess Club.
Other member of the Panabo Knights Chess Club are Nazario Ubanan, Ahmad Allan Diansuy, Jerome Pulos, Michael Cuamag, Kobi Segura, Denzel John Amar, Reynaldo Gempero Jr., Carl Jasphyr Lloyd Fiel, Reynaldo Aba-a, Japheth Caresosa and Ramil Langamon.
On the road to the finals, Sinacaban,  Misamis Occidental defeated Davao Durianburg Stallions, 57-39 in the semi finals to arrange a titular showdown with Panabo Knights Chess Club, who brought down Las Pinas City TFCC-CMC, 54.5-33.5, in another final four matches in this rapid match with a time control of ten minutes to finish.-Marlon Bernardino-

GM Quizon Wins Kamatyas Rapid Chess Tournament

GM Daniel Quizon claim victory in the 15th Edition of the Kamatyas Rapid Chess Tournament 2025 dubbed as ” The Infinite Mindstrokes” on 1st March 2025 at the SM Southmall in Las Piñas City, Philippines.
Quizon scored 8.5 points to bring home a PHP30,000 cash prize.
He defeated Brycen Andallo (Round 1), Benjie Bercadez (Round 2), Mark Gerald Reyes (Round 3), National Master Romeo Alcodia (Round 4), FIDE Master Christian Mark Daluz (Round 6), International Master Ronald Dableo (Round 7), Grandmaster Darwin Laylo (Round 8) and National Master Arjoe Loanzon (Round 9).
He split the points with FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri in the fifth round.
Dableo settled for second with 8.0 points followed by third placer Nouri who totes 7.5 points.
Daluz, Jester Sistoza, Angele Tenshi Biete, Jaymiel Piel, NM Phil Martin Casiguran, NM John Curt Valencia, NM Giovanni Mejia, Chester Neil Reyes, Gilbert Taopa and NM Marc Christian Nzario finished the tournament with similar 7.0 points; while GM Darwin Laylo, Loanzon, Steven James Dacanay, Wenlan Temple, Kenneth Cris Alican, NM Karlycris Clarito Jr., Noel Trines Jr., Gabriel Ryan Paradero, Jerick Faledonia, Philip Octaviano and NM Cedric Kahlel Abris have identical 6.5 points.
The 15th Edition of the Kamatyas Rapid Chess Tournament 2025 was organized by IM Roderick Nava and NM David Almirol Jr. of Kamatyas Chess Club.
“The event is aimed at developing good thinkers through the understanding of chess strategies and tactics, improving the logical abilities and rational thinking and reasoning of the participants, and instilling a sense of self-confidence, self-worth and camaraderie,” said IM Nava.
Earlier, Asia’s First GM Eugene Torre (left) and NM Almirol; GM Quizon and IM Nava, made the ceremonial moves kicking off the one-day rapid chess tournament.

Goryachkina clinches 2nd FIDE WGP title in Monaco after dramatic finale

We have reached the end of a spectacular Grand Prix leg in Monaco, filled with intense battles, unexpected turns, and a newly crowned champion.

After nine grueling rounds, three players—Aleksandra Goryachkina, Batkhuyag Munguntuul, and Humpy Koneru—finished tied for first place. However, it was Goryachkina who emerged as the tournament winner, securing her second Grand Prix leg victory, thanks to the superiour Sonneborn-Berger tiebreak.

The final round delivered high-stakes drama, with Munguntuul and Goryachkina drawing their encounter, allowing Humpy Koneru to join them at the top after defeating Bibisara Assaubayeva. Meanwhile, Alexandra Kosteniuk bounced back with a victory over Elisabeth Paehtz, Tan Zhongyi and Harika Dronavalli drew, and in a shocking twist, Sarasadat Khademalsharieh defeated Kateryna Lagno, dashing her hopes for the title.

Yesterday’s results had already reshaped the leaderboard, with Goryachkina and Munguntuul catching up to Lagno, setting up a final-round showdown. The stakes were high: a win in Munguntuul-Goryachkina would likely secure first place for the winner, while Lagno needed a victory against Khademalsharieh to stay in contention. With everything on the line, the last round was a fitting climax to an unforgettable event.

Round 9 results

Batkhuyag Munguntuul 1/2-1/2 Aleksandra Goryachkina
Alexandra Kosteniuk 1-0 Elisabeth Paehtz
Tan Zhongyi 1/2-1/2 Harika Dronavalli
Humpy Koneru 1-0 Bibisara Assaubayeva
Sarasadat Khademalsharieh 1-0 Kateryna Lagno

Batkhuyag Munguntuul – Aleksandra Goryachkina

This was the game everyone had their eyes on. The tournament’s bottom seed, Batkhuyag Munguntuul, delivered a phenomenal performance in Monaco, while Goryachkina, the winner of the previous Grand Prix leg, fought her way to the top after an early setback in round one.

A victory for either would have secured at least a shared first place, while a draw would have left the final standings uncertain, depending on Lagno’s result. The opening choice—a Berlin Defense in Ruy Lopez—was particularly interesting, as it is known for its drawish tendencies. However, throughout this tournament, we have seen dynamic interpretations of this setup, and this game was no exception. Both players sought complications, but multiple exchanges eradicated any attacking chances, leading to a draw.

Goryachkina remains the clear favorite in the overall Grand Prix standings and will play her third and final leg in Cyprus (March 14-25). Will she cement her place at the top? Meanwhile, Munguntuul, who had a tough start in Shymkent but shone in Monaco, will return for the Indian leg (April 13-24). What will her third appearance bring?

Alexandra Kosteniuk – Elisabeth Paehtz

A King’s Indian Defense quickly turned favorable for White, both on the board and on the clock. Alexandra first advanced on the queenside, securing a strong outpost for her knight, and then took full advantage of Black’s passive pieces and ill-timed counterplay on the kingside. Both players have not had great time management in this tournament, and today they exchanged long tanks – for more than 20 minutes at some points. A key moment came at move 18 when Black faced a recapture dilemma:

Kosteniuk noted in her post-game interview that King’s Indian players instinctively want to recapture on f5 with a pawn, but here, Black’s passive position demanded either 18…Bxf5 or 18…Nxf5 instead. After further simplifications, White’s advantage became undeniable due to Black’s misplaced pieces and weak pawn structure.

The game concluded with a tactical shot following 36. Bb4, making White’s passed a-pawn a decisive factor. Paehtz, understandably determined to win, took risks, but Kosteniuk—bouncing back from her previous loss—remained composed and converted the advantage.

Paehtz started the tournament strongly but lost momentum. However, with her next appearance in Cyprus, she has the opportunity to regain her form. Meanwhile, Kosteniuk will return for the final Grand Prix leg in Austria.

Tan Zhongyi – Harika Dronavalli

Both players entered the round with confidence after winning their previous games. While neither had a standout tournament, ending on a strong note was crucial—especially for Harika, who will play in Cyprus next, and Tan, who is set to challenge the Women’s World Champion in just four weeks.

Tan, trailing the leaders by just half a point, still had an outside chance of winning, making this game all the more significant for both players. It began with a Sicilian but quickly deviated from mainline theory. White appeared more comfortable in the resulting closed position, securing a strong outpost knight. However, her other pieces were passive, preventing any decisive breakthroughs.

As the game progressed, Black found chances for a kingside initiative, but the position remained balanced. Eventually, the queenside opened up, leading to multiple exchanges and leaving Black with a passed a-pawn.

Dronavalli could have forced a draw by trading queens but opted to continue, given her slightly more active pieces. Despite Black’s winning pawns, the ensuing complications allowed Tan’s queen to remain a constant threat. Ultimately, the game ended in a hard-fought draw.

Tan will soon be in China for the World Championship match before returning for the Grand Prix final leg in Austria (May 6-17)—will she compete as the newly crowned World Champion? Meanwhile, Harika, despite an underwhelming performance in  Monaco leg, will have two more chances to shine in Cyprus and India.

Humpy Koneru – Bibisara Assaubayeva

Trailing the leaders by half a point, Humpy had every reason to go all in, and that’s precisely what she did. Her opponent, Assaubayeva, struggling with health issues and sitting at the bottom of the standings, was likely not at her sharpest. An early mistake cost her a pawn, and from there, Humpy dictated the game.

Here, instead of 11…c6 or 11…Nh5 Black played 11…Nd7?, allowing 12. Qxd8 Rxd8 13. Nb5, attacking the c7-pawn.

Despite being down material early, Assaubayeva fought on, posing as many problems as possible. However, Humpy’s experience prevailed, and she secured a critical victory, joining the tournament leaders.

This was Assaubayeva’s final Grand Prix leg, while Humpy will return to compete in India, playing on home turf.

Sarasadat Khademalsharieh – Kateryna Lagno

Lagno had led the tournament for multiple rounds and played a quick draw on the previous day. But with her co-leaders facing off, she needed a win. Unfortunately, pushing too hard, she stumbled and suffered her first loss of the event—costing her the tournament victory.

Her opponent, Khademalsharieh, has had a difficult event but showed resilience against her higher-rated opponents. Today was no different. The game, a Fianchetto King’s Indian, remained quiet until Lagno took a risk, sacrificing a pawn for activity.

White’s position remained solid, and with precise play, Khademalsharieh consolidated, preserved her extra pawn, trading queens and converting a winning knight endgame. This win was a well-earned consolation after three consecutive losses, though she sympathized with Lagno, whose tournament hopes were dashed in this final game.

Both players will conclude their Grand Prix campaigns in India.

WGP Monaco final standings:

 

1 GM Aleksandra Goryachkina FID 2546 5½
2 GM Humpy Koneru IND 2523 5½
3 IM Batkhuyag Munguntuul MGL 2331 5½
4 GM Zhongyi Tan CHN 2561 5
5 GM Kateryna Lagno FID 2515 5
6 GM Alexandra Kosteniuk SUI 2484 4½
7 IM Sarasadat Khademalsharieh ESP 2458 4
8 GM Harika Dronavalli IND 2489 4
9 GM Elisabeth Paehtz GER 2427 3
10 IM Bibisara Assaubayeva KAZ 2492 3

 

As FIDE’s first major event of the year, the Monaco Grand Prix was a resounding success.

This tournament showcased fighting chess, resilience, and the unpredictable nature of round-robin events. It brought forth brilliant games, moments of heartbreak, and a reminder of the incredible talent in women’s chess. But the battle for the overall title is far from over. With three legs remaining—and top contenders like Lei Tingjie still set to compete—the race for the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix crown is heating up.

The action now shifts to Cyprus (March 14-25), where several key players, including Goryachkina, will compete in their final leg. Meanwhile, Munguntuul and Koneru will return for the Indian leg (April 13-24), looking to build on their momentum.

With so much at stake, the Grand Prix series is only getting more exciting.

More information about the event, including the regulations and details of the pairings, as well as live games can be found on the official website: womengrandprix.fide.com.

Written by Charlize van Zyl

Photos: Niki Riga

From Goryachkina clinches second FIDE WGP 2024-2025 title in Monaco after dramatic finale – World Chess Federation

Grandmaster Nigel Short Visits Manila

FIDE Director of Chess Development GM Nigel Short (above left) visited Manila on February 26, 2025. The former World Championship challenger met with Filipino chess players at the New World Hotel in Makati City, through the initiative of US-based National Master Antonio “Tony” Aguirre.
Accompanying Grandmaster Short were Interbank Champion CPA Danilo Ponay, sportswriter and radio commentator National Master Almario Marlon Quiroz Bernardino Jr., two-time Asian Senior (65+) champion International Master Jose Efren Bagamasbad, Engr. Rey Cris Urbiztondo, and dinner host Johnny “Joel” Gaudia.
The Filipino chess players expressed their gratitude to National Master Aguirre for arranging this memorable meeting with Grandmaster Short. On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Mr. Teddy Cu acted as host before GM Short’s evening flight to Guam.
It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to play with the legendary GM Short at the Wild Flour Restaurant in Greenbelt 3, Makati City.
GM Short beat all the Filipino players in a friendly blitz match with a time control of five minutes to finish.
He played with 12-time Philippine Open champion GM Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr., IM Bagamasbad, FM Ivan Travis Cu, NM Bernardino, Jericho Winston Cu, Engr. Allan Anthony Alvarez, Keiffer Pelias, Noel Jay Estacio and lone lady player Elizsa Gayle Cafirma.
After the friendly blitz match, GM Short gave advice to the Filipino chess players and had a lot of funny stories. He also gave a video message of congratulation to Xavier School Chess Team and to the forthcoming World Engineering chess on March 8.
The Filipino chess players gave a heartfelt thanks to NM Tony Aguirre for bringing Nigel Short” Engr. Alvarez said.
-Marlon Bernardino-

3rd National Youth Chess Championship Karachi, 2025

Pakistan’s Largest Youth Chess Event Concludes Successfully at Karachi Grammar School Karachi, Pakistan

The 3rd National Youth Chess Championship was held on the weekend of 22nd and 223rd February 2025 with resounding success at the Karachi Grammar School (KGS) Saddar Campus, making history as the largest youth chess event ever held in Pakistan. With over 250 young chess players from across the country, the championship highlighted the rising popularity of chess and the Chess Federation of Pakistan’s (CFP) commitment to developing young talent.

Mr. Hanif Qureshi, President of the Chess Federation of Pakistan attended as Chief Guest who delivered an inspiring opening speech: “I have had a dream, but now it is no longer a dream—it is turning into reality right before my eyes. Seeing over 250 talented young chess players from across Pakistan compete at this grand stage fills me with immense pride and optimism for the future of chess in our country.”

He commended the exceptional efforts of the organizing committee and team, led by Mr. Saleem Akhtar (Senior Vice President, CFP), Mr. Amer Karim GS CFP, Mr. Aijaz Samma, NM Muhammad Shahzeb and his Karpov Chess Club team, Ms. Saba Salahuddin, and Mrs. Saira Leghari for successfully executing this historic event.

The championship witnessed overwhelming participation from parents, players, school representatives, and distinguished guests who came together to celebrate and support the young chess talent of Pakistan. Notable personalities present included:

Mr. Sultan Ali Allana, Chairman of the Board, Habib Bank Limited (HBL)

Mr. Shahzad Roy, renowned musician, philanthropist, and founder of Zindagi Trust

Mr. Carl P. Lander, Principal of Karachi Grammar School

Mr. Rudiger Lotz, German Consul General, Karachi

Mr. Tariq Pervez, President of Pakistan Scrabble Association

Affan Salman, Reigning World Youth Scrabble Champion

Ali Salman, World Youth Scrabble Champion 2022

Bilal Asher, Reigning World Youth Scrabble Champion

The event was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including:

Mr. Jamil Mughal, McDonald’s Pakistan

Mr. Asad Vohra and Mr. Irfan, GreenO

Ms. Safina Chapra, Brain & Learning Pakistan

Adding to the championship’s prestige, Mr. Shahzad Roy praised the young participants for their dedication, encouraging them to strive for excellence. President CFP Hanif Qureshi also acknowledged Mr. Shahzad Roy’s transformative efforts in public education and his advocacy for chess as a powerful mind sport in schools.

The championship provided a platform for young players to hone their skills, develop critical thinking, and embrace the spirit of sportsmanship. The Chess Federation of Pakistan reaffirmed its dedication to expanding grassroots chess initiatives, ensuring wider access to the cognitive and educational benefits of chess across the country.

With Pakistan’s youth chess scene flourishing, the future of the sport looks promising, with many of these players poised to compete on national and international stages in the years to come. Here’s a summary of the winners and runners-up in each category:

Congratulations to all participants and winners for their outstanding performances at this prestigious event!

Muhammad Waqar

Development Officer

Chess Federation of Pakistan

Singapore Championship 2025: Tin Jingyao and Gong Qianyun retain titles

GM Tin Jingyao and WGM Gong Qianyun successfully defended their titles as Singapore’s national chess champions.

The 76th Singapore National Championship, featuring a record prize pool, took place at the Asian Civilisations Museum from February 4–25. Men and women competed in a single event but were ranked separately.

GM Tin Jingyao dominated the tournament, achieving a perfect score of 9/9 with an impressive tournament performance rating of 3000.

GM Siddharth Jagadeesh finished second, 2.5 points behind the champion, while four players—IM Enrique Paciencia, FM Jayden Wong, Tang Yiheng, and Elliot Wong—tied for third place with 6/9. Paciencia claimed bronze thanks to a superior Buchholz tiebreak score.

In the women’s competition, WGM Gong Qianyun won her 11th National Championship title after defeating WIM Anjela Khegay in an exciting tiebreaker. Both players had finished the tournament with 5/9. This victory marks an extraordinary milestone, as it is also Gong’s 10th consecutive title, cementing a decade of her supremacy in Singaporean women’s chess.

WIM Anjela Khegay took silver, while Eden Pang completed the podium with bronze.

Final standings:

 

1 GM Tin, Jingyao 2582 9
2 GM Siddharth, Jagadeesh 2496 6½
3 IM Paciencia, Enrique 2259 6
4 FM Wong, Zhenyong Jayden 2393 6
5 Tang, Yiheng 1969 6
6 Wong, Yen-Hsiu Elliot 1847 6
7 IM Susilodinata, Andrean 2359 5½
8 WGM Gong, Qianyun W 2297 5
9 WIM Khegay, Anjela W 2037 5
10 AGM Kapoor, Satvik 2116 5
Photos: Singapore Chess Federation

Eldiyar Orozbaev and Begimai Zairbek Kyzy win 2025 Kyrgyzstan Championship

IM Eldiyar Orozbaev and WFM Begimai Zairbek Kyzy are the new chess champions of Kyrgyzstan.

Organized by the Kyrgyz Chess Union in collaboration with the Directorate for Non-Olympic Sports of the Kyrgyz Republic, and supported by the general sponsor, financial company MBulak, the 2025 Kyrgyzstan Chess Championship took place from February 13 to 23 at Kyrgyz State Technical University, named after I. Razzakov.

A total of 92 players participated in the championship, including 65 men and 27 women. Both the open and women’s events were Swiss tournaments (eleven and nine rounds, respectively) with classical time control. A panel of arbiters, led by IA Aziz Umarbekov, officiated the competitions.

The open tournament was fiercely contested, culminating in a tiebreaker to determine the national champion. Remarkably, five of the top ten finishers, including the champion, are under twenty years of age. After IMs Eldiyar Orozbaev, Asylbek Abdyjapar, and Semetei Tologon Tegin tied for first place with 9/11, the top two players based on Buchholz tiebreak scores—Orozbaev and Abdyjapar—competed in a rapid tiebreak match. Top seed Orozbaev emerged victorious, winning both games to claim the title. Despite his excellent performance, Abdyjapar had to settle for second place, while Tologon secured bronze.

Final Standings – Open

1 IM Orozbaev, Eldiyar U20 2403 9
2 IM Abdyzhapar, Asylbek 2353 9
3 IM Tologon Tegin, Semetei 2353 9
4 IM Khoroshev, Nikita 2359 8
5 CM Momunaliev, Ruslan U14 2032 7½
6 Sulaimanov, Tilekmatali U18 1744 7½
7 CM Sharshenbekov, Emir U16 2078 7
8 NM Takyrbashev, Bolot 2042 7
9 IM Markov, Mikhail 2255 7
10 IM Zhakshylykov, Erzhan U18 2310 7
In the women’s competition, which also featured a very young lineup, WFM Begimai Zairbek Kyzy (pictured below) claimed the national title with a strong score of 7.5 points out of 9.

WFM Nuray Sovetbekova finished second, just half a point behind, while WCM Aizhan Sezdbekova completed the podium with 6.5 points.

Final Standings – Women

1 WFM Zairbek Kyzy, Begimai 1848 7½
2 WFM Sovetbekova, Nurai U20 1940 7
3 WCM Sezdbekova, Aizhan U16 1881 6½
4 WCM Lesbekova, Assel 1952 6
5 WCM Zhanybekova, Begimay U18 1909 6
6 Tursunalieva, Nurelina U14 1697 6
7 Sagynbekova, Zhibek U12 1609 5½
8 Poliak, Margarita U12 1762 5½
9 Zhunusbekova, Aimonchok U16 1907 5
10 Sabyrbekova, Aizhan U14 1537 5
This event showcased the high level of competition in Kyrgyzstan, with the country’s best players battling for the titles. The Kyrgyz Chess Union expresses its gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and partners for their support in advancing chess in Kyrgyzstan. Congratulations to the winners!

Photos: Kyrgyz Chess Union

2025 Mayor Arlene Arcillas Rapid Chess Team Tournament Set March 1st

The 2025 Mayor Arlene Arcillas rapid chess team tournament (2100 average rating and below) gets underway on March 1st, 2025, Saturday at the Vista Mall, Sta. Rosa City, Laguna, Philippines.
Open to all provinces, cities, municipalities, schools, companies, government agencies, chess clubs, and associations.
Each Team must be composed of 3 players with an average rating of 2100 and below as of February 1, 2025.
Player without FIDE Rapid Rating or whose rating is 1799 and below will be reconsidered 1800.
Only 1 Master is allowed and must play in Board 1 only.
Organized by the Rotary Club of Nuvali in cooperation with Philippine Executive Chess Association and Laguna Chess Association, the 1 day tournament will apply a 7 Round Swiss System, 15 minutes plus 3 seconds delay time control format.
The champion team will earn P30,000 plus a trophy.
The second placer will get P20,000 plus trophy, third placer will receive P10,000 plus trophy , fourth placer will bring home P7,000 while the fifth placer will pocket P5,000.
Sixth to 10th placers will bring home P3,000 each.
Special awards will receive P3,000 plus trophy each for the Top Executive Team, Top Government Team, Top College Team, Top High School Team, Top Lady Team and Top Sta. Rosa City Team.
The gold medalists in Boards 1, 2 and 3 will pocket P2,000 each plus medal, silver medalists will earn P1500 each plus medal and bronze medalists will receive P1000 each plus medal.
“We are excited to invite you to participate in the 2025 Mayor Arlene Arcillas rapid chess tatluhan team tournament. All proceeds of this event will be used to construct a waiting shed in Pulong Sta. Cruz Elementary School for the convenience of students”, said Magical President Engr. Carmencita Dionisio of Rotary Club of Nuvali.
Tournament registration fee at P2,000 on or before February 28 while P2,500 for the on site registration.
Call or text mobile number: 09212728172 (Dr. Fred Paez), 09178713693 (Engr. Bren Sasot) and 09622753001 (Ms. Josaville Gimutao).-Marlon Bernardino-