Pinamalayan Open Champion

After Tarlac, life must go on...
In short notice, we (Mel, Jojo, Arnel, Judge and I) joined the Pinamalayan Chess Open last April 19, 2009.
The team agreed to share the winnings equally among ourselves if there is any.
Mel, Jojo & I fought galantly while Judge and Arnel suffered temporary setbacks. On the 3rd round however, I became careless and lost to Glenn of Socorro. I annihilated my succeeding opponents to end up 4 points out of 5 games. Enough for joint first place with Mel, Jojo, Glenn and to our suprise my victim in the first round (who was not in the top boards despite wins).
The pairing was not well done resulting to questionable results.
When tie was broken, I emerged champion. Mel was third while Jojo was 5th place . Thanks to the score of my opponents which was considered in the tie break.
Special thanks to Nelson of Pinamalayan Chess Club. I am looking forward on depending my throne next year. (lol)

2009 National Intercities & Municipalities Chess Team Championship

As President of United Chess Players of Calapan, Inc. I sought the help of Marvin Panahon of City Youth and Sports Development Department together with our Secretary Steve Alcantara to have team representation in the event.
We were able to get support from the City Government and with pride and honor, the team represented the city last April 11 to 16, 2009.
We learned a lot from the experience! All were coming to right places. We were able to register our organization with National Chess Federation of the Philippines, we met with the City's lone Grandmaster Joey Antonio, battled out against titled players ... to name a few.
However, on the 14th of April, our team mate Nicasio Jun Rizo suffered asthma. We brought him to the nearest hospital but all our efforts were futile. His life was mated and instantly at that.
Sad day for Calapan Chess....
The team opted not to continue with the tournament. I have to let go my chance to be a board medalist at board 5. What was important at that time is we brought his body in our city.
Jun, may you rest in peace.

Why CHESS?

When I was younger, I was an avid basketball player. We would play basketball with my twin brother Joselito and relatives Jaime and Ogie. We would battle it out against other kids in the block.
During summer, there will be basketball tournaments. One time, there was an ongoing selection. Joselito and Jaime were already assured to have a team while Ogie was in Batangas for a visit to relatives. I taught there would be no problem in joining the last team. After all, the remaining slot is being fought by me and Gilbert who's other hand is amputated ('Putol Na)
But shock of my life Gilbert was the one chosen. What an unfair world it is!! Enough for basketball. Nobody should play it. We don't stand a chance with other countries!?!/ Blah blah blah!