Compilation of 1st GMA Cup Press Releases

PGMA to Grace Chess Opening

PRESIDENT Arroyo takes time out from her busy schedule to play chess against super GM Alexander Onishuk of the United States during formal opening ceremony of the 2006 Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge today at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.

President Arroyo, the country's No. 1 sports patron, and Onishuk will make the ceremonial moves during the 10 a.m. ceremony to be attended by top government and sports officials, invited guests and the participating foreign and local players.
Joining President Arroyo and Onishuk at center stage are National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., Department of Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez, Rep. Ed Zialcita, Paranaque Mayor Florencio Bernabe Jr., NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino, Duty Free general manager Michael Kho and FIDE representative Toti Abundo.

The players’ meeting and the opening round will be held immediately after the ceremony.
"It's all systems go. The players, both local and foreign, are all ready to make the first move in this biggest international chess tournament to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay.

"With President Arroyo giving her full support, we see a good future for Philippine chess," added Pichay, who hopes to produce as many as five new GMs by next year.
A member of the United States team which finished third overall in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Onishuk is the highest-rated player n the tournament with an ELO of 2668.

In the United States, the 31-year old Onishuk is the second highest-rated player behind only fellow GM Gata Kamsky (ELO 2705). He was one of the leading scorers for the American team in the Turin Olympiad, posting four wins and six draws in 10 matches. One of his draws came against Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre in the second round.
Aside from Onishuk, the other top foreign players vying for the US $6,000 top prize Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
Torre, the country’s most experienced player, will spearhead the Filipinos’ challenge in the tough, nine-round tournament.

Also in the registry are GMs Mark Paragua, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca; NMs Mirabeua Maga, Mannny Senador and Anthony Makinano; Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.
At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home the lion’s share of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.

The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers, as well as the top three Filipinos, top three women and top three juniors.


Press Release 1

ONE of the biggest sporting events of the year -- the first Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup international chess tournament -- finally comes off the wraps on Nov 17 at the Duty Free near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

A project of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) , headed by Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay, the prestigious, nine-round tournament will be held in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.

No less than President Arroyo and Rep. Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during the colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m.

"With no less than President Arroyo gracing the opening ceremony and more than 10 foreign GMs taking part, the GMA Cup will easily be the biggest chess competition to be held in the country in recent years," said Pichay, who is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the event.

"Through the GMA Cup and other international events lined up next year, such as the Sen. Manny Villar Cup and the Speaker De Venecia Cup, we expect to produce more world-class chess players in the near future," added Pichay, who also tapped Toti Abundo and Willie Abalos as tournament directors.

Among the foreign players who have already signified their intention to participate are GMs Ni HUa and Zhang Zhong of China, Utut Adianto and Edhi Handoko of Indonesia and WGM Maia Lominenisvili of Georgia.

Four other players from China and two from Vietnam are also expected to participate, along with several other strong players from Europe and the United States.

The Philippines’ challenge will be led by GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and upcoming Wesley So and John Paul Gomez.

At stake in the week-long competition are US$6,000 and trophy to the overall champion, US$4,000 and trophy to the runner-up and US$3,000 and trophy to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to 15 th placers.

The top three Filipino players, the top three women and the top three junior participants will also bring home cash prizes.

For more inquiries, call Willie Abalos at cell 0920-4871453 or visit the NCFP website at www.ncfphilippines.org

Press Release 2
GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).

Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.
Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.

The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.

Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.

At stake are cash prizes amounting to US$30,000, with the champion bringing home a whopping cash prize of US$6,000 and the prestigious PGMA Cup.
President Arroyo and NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero “Butch” Pichay are expected to make the ceremonial moves during a colorful opening ceremony set at 3 p.m. on Nov. 17.

The runner-up and third placer will receive US$4,000 and US 3,000, respectively.

Press Release 3

GM Zhang Pengxiang of China became the newest -- and highest-rated player -- to confirm his participation in the first President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge international championship set Nov. 17-23 at the Duty Free Shop near Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Pengxiang is the fourth highest-rated Chinese player with an ELO rating of 2636 behind only fellow GMs Bu Xiangzhi (ELO 2671), Wang Yue (ELO 2644) and Ye Jiangchuan (ELO 2641).
The 26-year-old Pengxiang will join compatriots GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226) in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP).

Veteran GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) and Edhi Handoko (2441) will carry the fight for Indonesia, while IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) will banner Uzbekistan.

Also expected to see action are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) and Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States and Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel.

The country’s five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Bong Villamayor -- have also entered the fray along with Asian Games-bound IM Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo and Jedara Docena.

Also in the cast are IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and female players Shercila Cua, Beverly Mendoza, Cristine Rose Mariano and Catherine Perena.

Press Release 4

ADD GM Vladimir Belov , one of Russia's top players, to the list of foreign participants vying in the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Chess Challenge scheduled Nov 27-23 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque, Manila.

The entry of Belov (ELO 2589) is expected to further raise the level of competition in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay in honor of the country's No. 1 sports patron, President Arroyo.

"With several highly-rated GMs from the United States, China, Indonesia and now Russia in the registry, the GMA Cup will surely be one of the biggest international chess competitions to be held in the country," said Pichay.

Aside from Belov, the other foreign players coming are GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States, Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) and IMs Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China; GMs Utut Adanto 2589) and Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IM Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan.

The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, fast-rising Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.

Press Release 5

AFTER the sensational triumph of Ronnie Alcano in world billiards, Filipino chess players also hope to do well and bring honors to the country when the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup international chess tournament comes off the wraps on Friday, Nov. 17 at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.

A brainchild of National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr. in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines, the prestigious seven-day tournament in honor of the country’s No. 1 sports patron is expected to attract close to 120 foreign and local players vying for the US $30,000 (P1.5 million).

President Arroyo will personally make the ceremonial moves with Pichay during the 10 a.m. opening ceremony.

Also invited during the opening rites are Department of Tourism Secretary Robert Ace Durano, Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez and Duty Free general manager Michael Kho.

"Everything is ready. With the participation of highly-rated foreign players from Russia, the United States and other Asian countries and a whopping cash prize amounting to US $30,000, the GMA Cup will surely be the biggest international chess tournament in recent years," said Pichay during the formal launch at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall yesterday.

Also gracing the launching were NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, FIDE delegate Casto “Toti’ Abundo and tournament director Wilfredo Abalos.

Super GMs Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States and Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636) of China head the list of foreign participants vying for the top purse of US $6,000.
Also in the registry are GMs Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609) of China, GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States, GMs Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia, GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel, and GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.

The Philippines will be represented by its five GMs -- Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. Nelson Mariano II and Singapore-based Buenaventura Villamayor, Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo, GM-candidate Wesley So and John Paul Gomez and other top-rated IMs.

Press Release 6

WESLEY So will be one of the Filipino players to watch when the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup Open and Chess Challenge reels off tomorrow (Friday, Nov. 17) at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque City.

So, who earned his first GM norm in the recent 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany last Nov. 12, is expected to bring his winning ways in the tough, nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and sponsored by Duty Free Philippines, Dearborn Realty Corporation Cadbury Hersheys M&Ms Johnnie Walker Chivas Regal, Fundador and Tagaytay City.

"We expect Wesley to perform well in the GMA Cup and even earn another GM norm," said NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr.
"If we’re fortunate enough, we can have another GM - and even the world’s youngest GM -- next year. The NCFP is confident that Wesley can achieve this goal," added Pichay, who vowed to produce as many as five GMs right in his first year of office as head of the country’s governing body in chess.

In Bad Wiessee, So finished with five wins and four draws for seven points, the same score of compatriots GM-candidates Darwin Laylo and Oliver Dimakiling.
So (ELO 2411) posted five wins, including stunning back-to-back victories over GMs Michael Prusikin (ELO 2560) of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin (ELO 2559) of Russia in the fifth and sixth rounds.

The Bacoor, Cavite-based So also drew his last three assignments against GMs Vereslav Eingorn (ELO 2591) of Ukraine, Vladimir Epishin (ELO 2527) of Russia and Vladimir Goergiev (ELO 2532) of Macedonia.

His other victories came against Josef Strasser (ELO 2250), Gerha Niebergal (ELO 2139) and Sebastian Voelker (ELO 2250), all of host Germany. Among the foreign GMs seeing action in the GMA Cup are super GM Alexander Onishuk (ELO 2668) of the United States; GMs Zhang Pengxiang (ELO 2636), Ni Hua (ELO 2621) and Zhang Zhong (ELO 2609), all of of China; GM Varushan Akobian (ELO 2598) of the United States; GM Vladimir Belov (ELO 2589) of Russia; GM Utut Adianto (ELO 2589) of Indonesia; GM Viktor Mikhalevski (ELO 2580) of Israel; GM Edhi Handoko (ELO 2441) of Indonesia; and IMs Tahir Vakhidov (ELO 2522) of Uzbekistan, Wang Rui (ELO 2463), Zhou Weigi (ELO 2435) and Wang Li (ELO 2226), all of China.
The Philippines will be represented in the GMA Cup by its five GMs – Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and Buenavenutra “Bong” Villamayor; IMs Oliver Dimakiling, Richard Bitoon, Idelfonso Datu, Yves Ranola, Oliver Barbosa, Wesley So, Rolando Nolte, John Paul Gomez, Jayson Gonzales, Chito Garma and Petronio Roca and six-time RP executive champion Dr. Jenny Mayor.

Onischuk Leads GMA Chess Winners

TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.

Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted NM Sammy Estimo in 26 moves of the Sicilian.

Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr. and comebacking Buenaventura "Bong" Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.

Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.

The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.

The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.

No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.

Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; Nm John Paul Goemz, who nipped Jenny Mayor; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who ourtplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.

Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.

President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onischuk.
Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.

The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.

Onsichuk, Pengxiang lead GMA Cup Chess Winners (Update)

TOP seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States lived up to his high billing, beating NM Adrian Pacis to lead opening-day winners in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque
Onischuk, one of seven foreign GMs in the registry, made short work of Pacis after only 35 moves of the Bishop’s Opening despite playing with the disadvantageous black pieces.
The 31-year-old Onischuk, who is ranked No. 40 in the world with an ELO rating of 2668, seized control of the game right from the opening and did not give Pacis any opportunity for a counter-play.

Equally impressive were second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China, who outwitted veteran NM Sammy Estimo afteronly 26 moves of the Sicilian to join Onischuk and 32 other players in the early lead.

The day also belonged to little-known Rustum Tolentino, who stole the spotlight from his more illustrious countrymen by drawing with super GM Ni Hua of China.
The 24-year old campaigner from Cagayan de Oro City, however, missed the winning line under time pressure and allowed the third-seeded Chinese bet to heave a big sigh of relief and escape with a draw in 35 moves of the Sicilian.

Still, Tolentino’s surprisingly strong showing against his tough Chinese rival turned out to be the day’s biggest story.

Fourth seed GM Zhang Zhong of China humbled Rolando Yutuc, No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of United States overpowered Catherine Perena, No. 6 GM Vladimir Belov of Russia trounced Wang Li and No. 11 IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan nipped Rodolfo Panopio in other featured matches.

Local bets GMs Mark Paragua, Eugene Torre, Rogelio Antonio Jr., Nelson Mariano II and comebacking Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor also hurdled their respective rivals to join the march of the favorites in this tough, nine-round tournament organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) in cooperation with Duty Free Philippines.
Paragua, at 22 the country’s highest-rated player with an ELO of 2587, outclassed Julius de Ramos in 40 moves of the Reti; Torre whipped Alfredo Paez in 32 moves of the Owen’s Defense; Antonio outclassed WIM Beverly Mendoza in 34 moves of the Ruy Lopez; Mariano overpowered NM Efen Bagamasbad; and Villamayor crushed Ibaryu Adante in 33 moves of the Reti.
Asian Games-bound IMs Darwin Laylo and Ronald Dableo also made their presence felt by beating Roberto Suelo and Leotito Ausan, respectively.
Laylo defeated Suelo in 47 moves of the Bishop’s Opening, while Dableo downed Ausan in 50 moves of the English.

Also making their presence felt were GM-candidate Wesley So, who stopped Dandel Fernandez; and national junior champion John Paul Gomez, who defeated six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor.

The country’s lone female representative to the Asiad -- Jedara Docena -- was not as lucky. Docena bowed to NM Oliver Barbosa.
The biggest casualty was IM Barlo Nadera, who fell in upset to unheralded Ramon Manon-og Jr. in 42 moves of the Slav.

No. 13 seed IM Wang Rui of China also won his match against Edmudno Legaspi.
Other early winners were IMs Chito Garma, who subdued Boris Diez; Nm Rolando Nolte, who dumped Christian Flores; FM Mirabeau Maga, who stopped Merben Roque; FM Fernie Donguiens, who trounced Kamil Rzoska of Poland; Anam Khairul, who overwhelmed Qurino Sagario; Anthony Makinano, who outplayed Victoria Chan of Singapore.

In the Chess Challenge, Rodolfo Diaz Jr., Roel Abelgas, Julius Sinangote, Raymodn Salcedo and Edmundo Gatus led opening-day winners.

Earlier, President Arroyo formally declared the tournament open during a brief but colorful ceremony.

President Arroyo also made the ceremonial moves with GM Onishuk.

Also present during the ceremony were NCFP president and Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay Jr., NCFP chairman and Rep. Mat Defensor, NCFP secretary-general and Tagaytay City Mayor Bambol Tolentino; Rep. Ed Zialcita and Philippine Sports Commisison (PSC) chairman Butch Ramirez.

The second and third rounds will be held starting at 9 a.m. today.

The moves of Pacis-Onischuk game:Bishop’s Opening1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4 Nf6 4. d3 Be7 5. 0-0 0-0 6. a3 d5 7. exd5 Nxd5 8. h3 Kh8 9. Nc3 Nxc3 10. bxc3 f5 11. Rb1 a6 12. d4 e4 13. Nh2 b5 14. Ba2 Na5 15. f3 Bb7 16. a4 bxa4 17. c4 exf3 18. Nxf3 Be4 19. d5 Rb8 20. Bd2 Nb7 21. Bc3 Bf6 22. Bb4 c5 23. Ba3 Qc7 24. Qd2 Nd6 25. Rxb8 Rxb8 26. Ng5 Bxg5 27. Qxg5 Bxc2 28. Re1 Ne4 29. Qf5 Qg3 30. Rf1 h6 31. Bc1 Nd2 32. Qxc2 Nxf1 33. Kxf1 Rf8+ 34. Kg1 Qe1+ 35. Kh2 Rf1

So topples Paragua; Onsichuk, Pengxiang Prevail

Standings after two rounds:1-16 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), Z. Zhong (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), W. So (RP), E. Torre (RP), R. Antonio (RP), D. Laylo (RP), R. Dableo (RP), W. Rui (China), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), W. Zhou (China), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP) 2 points; 17-20 N. Hua (China), R. Bitoon (RP), A. Makinano (RP), H. Nouri 1.5.

GM-candidate Wesley So provided the days’ s biggest surprise as he pulled off a stunning upset win over GM Mark Paragua, even as top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms in the second round of the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.

A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10 th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in the queen-rook-pawn endgame.

The win enabled Paragua to join Onischuk, Pengxiang and 13 other players with perfect scores of two points in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.

Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovitch, while Pengxiang whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in only 29 moves of the Sicilian.

Also hurdling their second-round assignments were No. 4 GM Zhang Zhong of China, who subdued IM Chito Garma in 60 moves of the Scotch; No. 5 GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, who downed IM Yves Ranola; No. 6 Gm Vladimir Belov of Russia, who trounced NM Oliver Barbosa in in 48 moves of the Caro Kann; and GM Viktor Mikhalevski of Israel, who outclassed Nm Rolando Nolte.

Except for Paragua and Mariano II, the country’s three other GMS also won their r matches against their lower-rated opponents.

GM Eugene Torre outplayed FM Fernie Donguines, GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra, and GM Buenaventura “Bong” Villamayor overwhelmed Nelson Villanueva Jr.
NM Emmanuel Senador outwitted IM Oliver Dimakiling and IM Ronald Dableo humbled Richard de la Cruz to join the elite group of two-pointers.

Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.

Four other foreign players won their matches against their Filipino rivals.

Wang Rui of China overwhelmed FM Mirabeau Maga, Weiqi Zhou of China stopped upset-conscious Ramon Manon-og, Victoria Chan of Singapore surprised NM Sammy Estimo and Kamil Rzoska of Poland downed Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena.

The only foreign casualty was Wang Li of Chia, who was ambushed by NM Efren Bagamasbad.
In other results, IM Barlo Nadera stopped Loreshyl Cuizon, six-time RP executive champion Jenny Mayor whipped Enerose Magno, WIM Beverly Mendoza overpowered Christian Flores, Catherine Perena toppled Leo Ausan, Julius de Ramos nipped Erwin Carag, and Robert Suelo clipped Jan Emmanuel Garcia.

The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bringhome th elion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.

Onischuk, 5 others share lead; So shocks Paragua
Standings after three rounds:1-6 A. Onischuk (USA), Z. Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V. Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio Jr. (RP) 3 points; 7-11 W. So (RP), Z.,Zhong (China), W. Rui (China), E. Torre (RP), R. Bitoon (RP) 2.5; 12-33 N. Hua (China), A. Makinano (RP), M. Paragua (RP), F. Donguines (RP), O. Dimakiling (RP), B. Mendoza (RP), D. Laylo (RP), T. Vakhidov (Uzbekistan), R. Dableo (RP), W. Zhou (China), B. Villamayor (RP), E. Senador (RP), C. Garma (RP), Y. Ranola (RP), O. Babrosa (RP), R. Nolte (RP), B. Nadera (RP), R. Bancod (RP), J. Sadorra (RP), S. Severino (RP), A. Khairul (Ina), R. Tolentino (RP) 2.
WESLEY So provided the days’ s biggest surprise, beating GM Mark Paragua in the second round and drawing with GM Eugene Torre in the third to boost his chances for his second GM norm in the first Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque.

A few days after earning his first GM norm with a smashing performance in the 10th Bayer Open in Bad Wiessee, Germany, the 13-year-old pride of Bacoor, Cavite added the highly-rated Paragua to his list of victims following a decisive 37-move victory in an English Opening.
So, who boasts of back-to-back victories over two tough GMs Michael Prusikin of Germany and Vladimir Brumakin of Russia in the German tournament early this month, played aggressively with the black pieces and outplayed his higher-rated compatriot in a queen-rook-pawn endgame.

It was So’s first career victory over Paragua, at 22 the country's highest-rated player.

Then, So held the 55-year-old Torre to a draw with the white pieces after only 26 moves of a Bishop’s Opening to remain in contention with 2.5 points out of a possible three in this tough, nine-round tournament which offers a total cash prize of US $30,000 and the prestigious GMA Cup.

Top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States and second seed GM Zhang Pengxiang of China sustained their fiery forms and racked up back-to-back victories to lead four other players with perfect scores of three points.

Onischuk, a mainstay of the United States team which finished third in the last World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, crushed GM-candidate Jayson Gonzalez after only 23 moves of the Nimzovich in the second round and IM Darwin Laylo in 40 moves of another Nimzo in the third.
Pengxiang, ranked No. 4 in China with an ELO of 2636, whipped GM Nelson Mariano II in 29 moves of the Sicilian in the second round and IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan in 43 moves of the Dutch.

NO. 10 seed GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. dumped FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player in the lead with three points.

Also with perfect scores of three points were GMs Varuzhan Akobian of the United States, Vladimir Belov of Russia and Victor Mikhalevski of Israel.

No. 5 Akobian downed IM Yves Ranola in the second round and Im Ronald Dableo in the third round, No. 6 Belov trounced NM Oliver Barbosa and Weiqi Zhou of China and No. 8 Mikhalevski outclassed NM Rolando Nolte and GM Bong Villamayor.
Joining So and Torre in a five-way tie for seventh to 11th places were GM Zhang Zhong and IM Wang Rui, both of China, who drew their match after only nine moves of the Pirc; and IM Richard Bitoon, who beat Hamed Nouri.

Third seed GM Ni Hua of China, who barely escaped with a draw against little-known Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro City in the first round late Friday, bounced back in contention by beating FM Roderick Nava.

Hua was held to another draw in the third round, this time by Palawan Open champion NM Anthony Makinano of Cebu.

Sharing the limelight in the third round was Turin Olympiad veteran WIM Beverly Mendoza, who shocked Gonzales in 43 moves of the Dutch to remain as the highest-placed female player with two points.

Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena outsteadied NM Sammy Estimo to finally barge into the win column after two losses.

Other third-round winners were Paragua, who downed Catherine Perena; IM Oliver Dimakiling, who nipped Kamil Rzoska of Poland; NM Oliver Babrosa, who trounced Victoria Chan of Singapore; Sander Severino, who toppled NM Miranbau Maga; NM Petronio Roca, who stopped WFM Liu Yang of China; Adrian Pacis , who beat Dande Fernandez; and Erwin Carag, who humbled Edmundo Legaspi.

The champion in the tournament also supported by Duty Free Philippines will bring home the lion’s prize of US 6,000. The runner-up and the third placer will receive US 4,000 and US 3, 000, respectively.

So Faces Tough Chinese GM

Standings after three rounds:1-6 A.Onischuk (USA), Z.Pengxiang (China), V. Akobian (USA), V. Belov (Russia), V.Mikhalevski (Israel), R. Antonio (RP) 3 points; 7-11 Z. Zhong (China), E. Torre (RP), W. Rui (China), R. Bitoon (RP), W. So (RP) 2.5.
GM-candidate Wesley So faces his biggest test yet when he meets third seed GM Ni Hua of China in the fourth round of the first President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Cup International Open and Chess Challenge at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in Paranaque today (Nov. 20).
Buoyed by his upset win over GM Mark Paragua in the second round and a draw with GM Eugene Torre in the third round, the 13-year old So gets a chance to play his first foreign rival in the prestigious nine-round tournament being organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) and Duty Free Philippines in honor of President Arroyo.
So, who earned his first GM norm in Bad Wiessee, Germany early this month, will play the disadvantageous black pieces against Hua.

A member of the Chinese team which finished runner-up in the 37th World Chess Olympiad in Turin, Italy, Hua was held to a draw in two of his first three assignments by Rustum Tolentino of Cagayan de Oro in the first round and Anthony Makinano of Cebu in the third round.
GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. also gets his first opportunity against a foreign rival when he takes on fifth seed GM Varuzhan Akobian of the United States in another keenly-awaited encoubter.
Antonio racked up three straight victories over WIM Beverly Mendoza, FM Julio Sadorra and NM Emmanuel Senador to remain as the only Filipino player still in the lead pack with a perfect score of three points.

The 42-year old Antonio will play black against Akobian, the 23-year old American who swept his first three matches against Catherine Perena, IM Yves Ranola and IM Ronald Dableo.
In the other featured matches at center stage, top seed GM Alexander Onischuk of the United States battles sixth seed GM Vladimir Belov of Russia and No. 2 GM Wang Pengxiang of China plays No. 8 GM Alexander Mikhalevski of Israel.
Onischuk, who won the US Championship last March and now ranked second in the US behind only GM Gata Kamsky with an ELO rating of 2668, had easy time against NM Adrian Pacis, IM Jayson Gonzales and IM Darwin Laylo.

Torre, at 55 still the country’s most-experienced player in the international front, tests the mettle of GM Zhang Zhong of China, while IM Richard Bitoon trades moves with IM Wang Rui of China. GM Nelson Mariano II, the country’s fifth GM in the registry, will try to recover lost ground when he faces NM Rodolfo Panopio Jr. After hurdling his opening-day assignment against NM Efren Bagamasbad, Mariano lost to Pengxiang in the second round and settled for a draw with Julius de Ramos in the third round.

In other featured fourth-round matches, it will be Paragua against NM Rolando Nolte, IM Tahir Vakhidov of Uzbekistan against FM Fernie Donguines, IM Barlo Nadera against IM Oliver Dimakiling, Senador against Laylo, Zhou Weiqi of China against IM Ronald Bancod, GM Buenavetura “Bong” Villamayor against Sadorra, Anam Khairul of Indonesia against Dableo, IM Chito Garma against Makinano and Mendoza against Ranola.
Paragua kept his hopes alive despite the stunning second-round setback to So by hurdling Perena in the third round, while Donguines barely stayed in the upper half of the standings by outlasting NM Richard de la Cruz in their marathon four-hour showdown.
Mendoza, a veteran of the Turin Olympiad, will also seek a fitting follow-up to her morale-boosting third-round upset win over Gonzales to boost her chances for the top consolation prize in the female category.

WFM Sherry Joy Lomibao will play national junior champion John Paul Gomez while Asian Games-bound Jedara Docena will tackle Wang Li of China in other crucial matches.
Tournament director is Wilie Abalos, while the chief arbiter is Toti Abundo.
At stake in the week-long competition which ends Nov. 24 are US $6,000 and the coveted GMA Cup for the champion, US $4,000 to the runner-up and US $3,000 to the third placer.
Cash prizes will also be given to the fourth to the 15th placers, as well as the top three finishers in the female and junior categories.

+ Courtesy of NCFP official website.