Sevillano, Derotas make history for Cebu in Shell chessfest

 CEBU, Philippines - For the first time in 20 years, Cebuano pawnpushers swept the kiddies division titles of the Shell National Youth Active Chess Championships Grand Finals over the weekend at the SM Megamall in Manila.

Thanks to Rhenzi Kyle Sevillano and Vic Glyzen Derotas who reigned supreme in the boys and girls division, respectively. Both are students of the University of San Carlos (USC).

Sevillano, who qualified for the national finals via the Davao leg and not in Cebu, bagged the national title after posting nine wins and a draw.

The 13-year-old Sevillano may have missed a perfect game, but it did not matter to him anymore as he finally emerged victorious after five attempts.

The 11-year-old Derotas, on the other hand, ended her campaign with 8.5 points.

Aside from trophies, Sevillano went home P20,000 richer, while Derotas pocketed P10,000. (FREEMAN)