CEBU, Philippines – It's goint to be a merry triple treat for the Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (CEPCA) as they stage the grand finals of their year-round tournament, the induction of their new members, and their annual Christmas party altogether today at Lola Saling's Grill and Seafood Restaurant in Barangay Casuntingan, Mandaue City.
Jimmy Ty Jr. leads the pack of strong contenders who will slug it out for supremacy in the 'Battle of Champions.' The Tacloban City-native pawnpusher outlasted Peterson Sia, a chess tutor who owns the biggest collection of chess books in Cebu, to emerge as overall champion in last year's edition of the event.
This time, the 28-year-old Ty will defend his throne against fellow monthly qualifiers in CEPCA President Jerry Maratas, Tony Cabibil, Rey Flores, Rosendo Yamyamin, Peterson Sia, Harry Chua, NM Arnold Cadiz, Eduard de la Torre, Maggi Dionson, Amado Olea, and Carlo Maraat.
To be supervised by CEPCA sports commitee chairman Jun Olis and FIDE Arbiter Mavin Y. Ruelan, the competition will promptly start at 2 p.m. Cash prizes will be given away to the top performers.
On the other hand, the new Cepcans who will be formally be inducted include Therese de la Torre, Eduard de la Torre, Rosendo Yamyamin, Jimmy Ty Jr., Edwin Cablao, Jessa Balbona, Jane Harvey Hilbano, Louie Alalim, Fil Ryan Cortez, Dominic Morre, Isen Montero, Regelito Hortelano, Ben Rodriguez, and Denster Abella. — EBV (FREEMAN)