Allan Pason (Chess)

CEBU, Philippines - A double date with history.

This is what the young pawnpusher from Lapu-Lapu City has achieved that made him our top choice for this monthly accolade.

Aside from clinching the championship of the 1st Cebu Chess Festival, 15-year-old Allan Pason also etched his name in stone for being part of Cebu City's attempt to break the Guinness record for the 'World's Largest Chess Tournament."

For a mind-draining competition that drew over 3,000 participants, what the sophomore student from Pajo National High School has accomplished was no ordinary feat.

The thing of beauty is that Pason doesn't only enjoy playing chess, he's also earning a living from the sport closest to his heart.

"I'm very thankful to God for blessing me with this kind of talent," he said. "Through chess, I'm able to earn an income not only for myself but also for my family."

Though he doesn't have any background in the popular European boardgame nor possess books that could further sharpen his skills, Pason showed mastery of the game by winning various competitions.

A two-time Shell Youth National Active Chess champion, Pason also had a stint in the ASEAN Junior Age-Group Chess Championships in Olongapo City where he defeated a topseed player from Vietnam.

Like his idol, Super Grandmaster Wesley So, Pason's ultimate goal is to become a grandmaster and be part of the Philippine Team someday.

"To the aspiring chess players out there, just keep on practicing. In that way, they will learn better and improve their craft," said Pason. — EBV with Marigold P. Lebumfacil (THE FREEMAN)