Perpetual Help aims for big finish in NCAA chess

MANILA, Philippines - Host University Perpetual Help System Dalta hopes to make a big impression in the forthcoming 87th NCAA chess wars unfolding on July 30 at the SM City Manila.

Altas coach Assistio Bagaipo said they’ve trained and prepared hard for the coming tournament and they’re eyeing no less than a Final Four finish in the second sports event to be played in Season 87 next to junior and senior basketball.

“The players worked hard in preparing for this event and hopefully we’ll reap the fruits of our hard labor,” said Bagaipo, who is assisted by Philip Medina in training the Las Piñas-based chessers.

“Our goal, of course, is to finish in the top four, which we know is very achievable this season,” he added.

Veteran Aries Monera is expected to man the top board with Jean Paul Bagaipo, Justine Nicole de Jesus and Jenwin Alconcher playing the second, third and fourth boards, respectively.

Kris Angelique Melicano and Aurora Kim Dantes have been designated alternates or Board 5 and 6 players.

Perpetual Help owner, Col./Dr. Antonio Tamayo, wishes his team luck.

“We’ve always supported our Perpetual Help players and we’re hoping and praying for a good performance in all sports,” he said.