Close to 300 chessplayers are taking part in 12 boys and girls divisions.
International Master Mark Paragua, and Natinal Masters John Paul Gomez and NM Oliver Barbosa banner the elite 20-and-under division, the winner of which will earn the right to represent the country in the Asian Junior Championships.
Among the fancied participants in the other divisions are Bernard Tempo and Dexter Dacanay (18 and under), Julius Joseph de Ramos and Paolo Bautista (16 and under), Vic Neil Villanueva and Ivan Gil Biag (14 and under), Karl Victor Ochoa, Aaron Rivas, Rommelle delos Santos and John Robin Buenavista (12 and under), Gabriel Layugan and Haridas Pascua (10 and under).
Also on tap is a separate competition for girls featuring six brackets.
The tournament is organized by the Metropolitan Chess Club.
Each player will be given 90 minutes to finish the game. Participants are required to bring their own sets and if possible, chess clock.
Provincial entries who made reservations have until 10 a.m. to settle their accounts at the venue site. Pairings will be released at 12 noon.
Call up MCC at 826-8560 for more details.