Bernardino to Represent PH in 24th ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships

Filipino chess player Almario Marlon Quiroz Bernardino Jr., a certified Online Arena Grandmaster, will represent the Philippines in the 24th ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships scheduled from August 7 to 17 at Tampines Hub in Singapore.

The 49-year-old campaigner from Quezon City and Mandaluyong expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete in one of the region's premier chess tournaments.

"I would like to thank the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP), headed by Chairman and President Cong. Prospero Pichay Jr., Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, Kap. Marlon Manalo, and Sir Ignatius Leong for their support in this tournament," Bernardino said.

The veteran sportswriter and radio commentator is aiming to boost his international rating during the 10-day competition.

"I'm hoping to earn valuable ELO rating points," said Bernardino, a native of Binalonan, Pangasinan.

Bernardino heads to Singapore in high spirits after capturing the title in the 100th Saturday Evening Casual Blitz Chess Tournament held on August 1 at the Red Knight Chess Café in Bambini Villa, Sukhumvit, Bangkok, Thailand.

The ASEAN+ Age Group Chess Championships annually gather some of the region's top young and veteran players, providing a competitive platform for international exposure and FIDE rating opportunities. (LUCIO GABOR)