National Master Jasper Faeldonia was crowned champion in the recently concluded 1st Dr. GM Eugene Torre FIDE Standard Open Chess Tournament held at the Marikina Sports Center, Marikina City, from August 30-31,2026.
NM Jasper, the pride of Odiongan, Romblon scored a total of 5.5 points on account of five wins and one draw after the World Chess Federation (FIDE)-Standard rated 6-Rounds Swiss System competition that used 60-minutes plus 3 seconds increment time control. He went home with the P20,000 cash prize.
Actually, NM Jasper, Jeremy Marticio of Cabuyao, Laguna and Arena International Master Jerick Faeldonia of Odiongan, Romblon posted similar 5.5 points but NM Jasper took first place honors by virtue of a higher tie-break output.
" I am happy with my latest victory especially my younger brother Jerick also finish in a tie for first place," said the 21-year-old NM Jasper, top player of College of St. Benilde, NCAA Most Valuable Player.
Jeremy settled for second place to earn P15,000 while Jerick wound up third to receive P10,000.
NM Jasper and Jerick, both International Tournament was supported by Romblon Governor Trina Firmalo Fabic.
Last round saw NM Jasper defeated former solo leader National Master Keith Adriane Ilar after 65 moves of Kings Indian defense on Board 1.
Jerick upset International Master Ricardo de Guzman after 75 moves of Torre Attack on Board 2.
Jeremy trounced Kings Lanz Pamplona after 28 moves of Trompovsky Opening on Board 3.
Rounding up to the top 10 with 5.0 points each were NM Keith Adriane (fourth), IM Ronald Bancod (fifth), Jian Carlo Rivera (sixth), AIM Zeyus Kyle Del Mundo (seventh), Quarl Maverick Vera Cruz (eight), Denniel Penafiel (ninth) and Jan Renzo Ochave (tenth).
The event was organized by Mr. Jun Enage and was supported by Marikina City Mayor Maan Teodoro and Cong. Marcy Teodoro.
The chief arbiter was International Arbiter/FIDE Trainer and FIDE Master Rudy Ibanez.
Engr. Ernie Fetisan Faeldonia had something to say to his sons.
"The (Jasper and Jerick) Faeldonia brothers both scored 5.5 points with 5 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw.
They tied for 1st place with 2nd placer Jeremy Marticio in the recent 1st GM Eugene Torre Open Standard Chess Tournament held at Marikina Sports Center.
The tournament had 223 players, including 4 International Masters, 3 National Masters, and 18 Arena Masters from different cities and provinces. It was a tough battle, but they maintained their composure and secured podium finishes.
Thank you to Arellano University Coach FM Rudy Listana Ibañez and to everyone who supported my sons in their chess journey.
Above all, thank you Lord for all the blessings. Honor and glory are forever Yours. " said proud father Engr. Ernie.
-Marlon Bernardino-
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