Close games, routs open PH chess league

Twelve teams, led by Cagayan, won their opening round matches in the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) First Conference on Saturday, January 16.

Cagayan edged favored Pasig, 11-10, after grandmaster Darwin Laylo inexplicably lost on time in a superior position against untitled Jake Tasi Tumaliuan. 

Manila overcame gutsy Cavite, which forced a deciding Armageddon  where the Philippines’ top player Julio Catalino Sadorra, John Marvin Miciano, and veteran blitz specialist Cris Ramayrat swept their foes.

Palawan Queen’s Gambit, an all-female squad, dropped its overall match against Iloilo, 15-6, but not before its top board Shania Mae Mendoza upset many-time national champion Joey Antonio in rapid chess and Catherine Secopito won after Karl Chua failed to get internet connection.

Mendoza, the Philippines’ second strongest female player, unleashed a speculative sacrifice of a rook for a knight which paid off when Antonio blundered on the 37th move. Mendoza got a strong attack and forced Antonio to resign in 46 moves.

In other results, Toledo downed Cebu, 13-8; Laguna drubbed Rizal, 17.5-3.5; Olongapo downed Isabela, 17.5-3.5; Olongapo nipped Isabela, 11.5-9.5;  San Juan routed Antipolo, 18.5-1.5; Camarines beat Zamboanga, 12.5-8.5; Cordova beat Surigao, 13.5-7.5; Lapu-Lapu whipped Mindoro, 14.5-6.5; Negros clobbered Iriga, 18-3; and Caloocan crushed Quezon City, 17-4.

Two rounds will be played on Wednesday. – Rappler.com