MANILA, Philippines — International Master Jose Efren Bagamasbad will spearhead a strong cast clashing in the Laoag City Open chess championship set Dec. 19-23 at the Ilocos Norte National High School gymnasium, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte.
The 67-year-old Bagamasbad, looms as the player to beat in the nine-round Swiss system tournament owing to his performance in the past.
Last October, Bagamasbad won the 65-years-old-and-above division of the 12th Asian Senior Chess Championship in Tagaytay City.
He also topped the 65-years-old-and-above division of the 11th Asian Senior Chess Championship held in Auckland, New Zealand last year.
"I hope to do well in this event and gain some Elo rating points," added Bagamasbad.
The event, hosted by Laoag City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon in cooperation with Chairman of 102nd Homecoming Committee of the UP Vanguard Incorporated Aldwin Galapon and tournament director International Master Ronald Bancod, offers a top purse of P50,000.
Others vying in the event sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation are IM Rolando Nolte, IM Ricardo de Guzman and IM Barlo Nadera.
Other notable masters participating are FM Christopher Castellano, FM Giovanni Mejia, NM Edmundo Gatus, NM Jose "Jojo" Aquino and CM Luffe Magdalaga.
Chief Arbiter is International Arbiter Ricky Navalta.-Marlon Bernardino-
Comments
Share your thoughts on the above article by Marlon Bernardino.