Laylo back as Philippine top chesser

MANILA, Philippines — After a 17-year wait, Grandmaster Darwin Laylo is back as the country’s top chess player.

The 42-year-old Laylo recalled the old form that pushed him to the pedestal in 2004 and 2006 in ruling the National Chess Championships at the Malolos City Auditorium in Bulacan Monday night.

The Army man from Dasmariñas, Cavite split the point with International Master Daniel Quizon, the last winner of this meet two years ago in Lapu-Lapu, Cebu, and finished with 6.5 points on four triumphs and five draws.

Laylo’s four victories came at the expense of Woman GM Janelle Mae Frayna, WIM Marie Antoinette San Diego, IM Paulo Bersamina and GM Joey Antonio.