PSC, NCFP launch the Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program

THE Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) have teamed up and formed a program that will gather the country’s best young chessers across the nation and train them to become future Grandmasters someday.

Starting Aug. 1, NCFP Chief Executive Officer Jayson Gonzales on Wednesday said the Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program would bring together 36 woodpushers — 12 each from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao — who made it through the regional qualifiers and give them a structured training program.

“It marks a historic milestone in Philippine grassroots chess development that would lay the foundation for the country’s future national athletes,” said Mr. Gonzales, a Grandmaster who is also the national women’s team coach.

Getting blessings from PSC Chair Patrick C. Gregorio and NCFP Chief Prospero “Butch” Pichay, Jr., Mr. Gonzales met with PSC Commissioner Ed Hayco to finalize the implementation of the momentous project.

Making the cut under the boys and girls 5-8 and 9-11 years old bracket from Luzon were Aaliyan Borden, Alyiah Beltran, Hahn Tee, Gael Navarro, Mark Albert, Orion Paredes, Sofia Saludares, Althea Paredes, Kate Garcia, Marius Constante, Neil Amatorio and Clyde Torena.

Those from the Visayas are Frexine Lim, Elisa Johansson, Frida Bernal, Ivan Icalina, Terrence Donoga, Rybarage Entia, Rhian Salud, Lyrah Villareal, Ellysa Maru, Lance Bangero, Allen Albor and Navi Icalina.

From Mindanao are Sabella Sy, Elisha Romarate, Eu Pepito, Magnus Carlsen Sanico, Carlsen Andres Hapitan, Yoseff Prada, Roshan Templa, Scarlett Donoso, Claudiah Fabrigia, Danny Romualdez, Aidh Munsing and Levon Reyes.

Mr. Gonzales said these players would be given an important pathway towards becoming members of the national team in the future. — Joey Villar