Pacis, Balico shine in chess semis

National Masters Adriano Pacis and Jerome Balico provided the fireworks in an otherwise uneventful ninth round in the semifinals of the National Chess Championship yesterday, as they turned back higher seeded opponents to stay on track for a place in the championship round.

On a quiet Sunday morning at the Centermall of the Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan, Pacis exploded with a 38-move victory over top seed NM Ronald Dableo, even as the 27-year old Balico toppled FIDE Master Fernie Donguines after 51 moves of an Alekhine.

Pacis, seeded no. 34, surprised the 23-year old Dableo with a rook sacrifice nearing the endgame, triggering a series of moves that exposed black’s King to vulnerable attack.

Balico also picked up his seventh point via another upset victory at the expense of Donguines, the no. 13 seed, in an Alekhine Opening.

Also with seven points are 74th seed Melvin Merelos, IM Barlo Nadera, IM Nelson Mariano and NM Petronio Roca.

International Master Chito Garma drew with Meralos to remain in the lead with eight points, and is now only a draw away from making it to the finals.