International Master Christian Gian Carlo Arca remains undefeated at the Gov. Henry S. Oaminal Rapid Open Chess Championships in Ozamiz City, Philippines, after defeating local player Rodney Opada. Arca shares the lead with seven others, each holding 4.0 points.
Malalakas na Kalahok sa Paligsahan
Alongside Arca, the other players in the lead include IM Michael Concio Jr., Sherwin Tiu, Merben Roque, IM Mark Jay Bacojo, FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri, Joey Albert Florendo, and Johnnel Balquin.
Defending champion Grandmaster Rogelio Antonio Jr. faced a setback, managing only a draw against Nazario Ubanan from Cagayan de Oro. Meanwhile, Concio secured a victory against candidate master Jan Clifford Labog.
Dumating lang ako dito para maglaro at mag-enjoy nang walang mataas na inaasahan. Siyempre, nasasabik akong makakuha ng upset laban sa isang mataas na kalibreng manlalaro.
(cite: Abdul Halil Abdullah, Electrical Engineer)
The festive atmosphere at the tournament is amplified by the announcement from Gov. Henry S. Oaminal Sr. regarding the doubling of the cash prizes to P1 million. The tournament, which features various categories such as elementary and high school events, brought together over 400 participants.
In addition to the cash prizes, all participants received a P2,000 reimbursement for their registration fees. Notably, all 31 titled players in attendance will also receive P10,000 each.
Organizer Arena Grandmaster Rey Urbiztondo emphasized the large investment in the tournament, stating that the city and province spent over P2 million to promote chess development. He expressed gratitude to Gov. Oaminal for his support, which he believes will greatly benefit young chess players across the country.