by Marlon Bernardino
MANILA, Philippines—Filipino Grandmaster (GM) Mark Paragua dominated the Mayor Inday Sara Blitz (3 minutes plus 2 seconds increment time control format) Online Chess Tournament on Monday, May 31, 2021 on chess.com platform.
The New York, US based Paragua, a World Championship veteran, collected 10 points on nine wins, two draws to win the 11 Round Swiss-Tournament, being held to coincide with the birthday celebration of Mayor Sara Duterte.
The event, which attracted 327 entries worldwide, was organized by IA/FT James Infiesto in close cooperation with Davao Chess Eagles, AGM Ariel Aton, NA Ely Acas and sponsored by AIM/NA Rey Urbiztondo and Surigao Fianchetto Checkmates.
Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr., a 13-time Philippine champion, took 2nd with a better tiebreak over fellow 9 pointers 3rd placer Italy based Grandmaster Roland Salvador, 4th placer Canadian National Master Zulfikar Sali and 5th placer FIDE Master Roberto Suelo Jr.
The top five (5) winners received P5,000, P2,500, P1,500, P750 and P750 for their efforts.
Also with similar 9 points but lower tie break are 6th placer Johnnel Balquin and 7th placer Woman National Master Francois Marie Magpily.
Final Standings and tournament pay outs (11 Round Swiss-Tournament, 327 woodpushers entries worldwide)
Top five (5)
10/11 GM Mark Paragua
Champ-P5,000
9/11 GM Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr.
2nd-P2,500
9/11 GM Roland Salvador
3rd-P1,500
9/11 Canadian National Master Zulfikar Sali
4th-P750
9/11 Fide Master Robert Suelo Jr.
5th-P750