Councilor Gealon extols CEPCA s lasting impact on sports

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Councilor Atty. Rey Gealon praised the Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (CEPCA) for its significant contributions especially in the promotion and development of chess in this side of the archipelago for over three decades now.

Speaking as guest of honor during the formal opening of CEPCA s 34th Anniversary Tournament billed as the 5th Boy Chessmoso Pesta o Memorial Chess Cup on Sunday, November 10, at Robinsons Galleria Cebu, Gealon said he is very proud and extremely grateful for being part of such a remarkable milestone.

This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past;it is a testament of CEPCA s invaluable contributions to the Cebu chess community, and I look forward to a promising future for chess in our city,  said Gealon, himself an avid sportsman and one of the club s biggest supporters.

In the same breath, Gealon lauded the Cepcans for being an amazing partner in grassroots development through their assistance to the city s various tournaments as well as honing young talents, which not only elevates the quality of competition but also provides opportunities for the youth.

CEPCA s initiatives align closely with our vision, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity in the sport and most importantly, nurturing local talents. Its continuous efforts to ensure that chess reaches communities are exceptional. CEPCA has truly made a lasting impact in the community,  Gealon furthered.

Gealon made special mention of CEPCA s longtime president Engr. Jerry Maratas, whose dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment has kept the oldest existing chess organization outside of Manila afloat despite the many challenges it faced over the years.

Under the stewardship of Maratas, Gealon is highly confident that Cebu chess will reach greater heights and discover the next masters from its own backyard.

As we celebrate CEPCA s 34th year, let us remember that each anniversary is a representation not only of the years, but also of the stories of dedication, passion, and of shared victories. May this milestone inspire all of us to continue working to champion the values that chess teaches us, foster friendship and camaraderie, encourage competition, and above all, nurture the next generation of Cebuano chess players,  said Gealon.

Congratulations to CEPCA and to everyone who has been a part of this journey. May this anniversary be a step to an even greater achievement - for the love of chess, and for the love of Cebu, Gealon ended.