MANILA – The Laguna Heroes romped to the quarterfinals of Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) third conference following wins over Double Bishops Bangkok and the Camarines Soaring Eagle on Saturday, Nov. 13, in the virtually held tournament at Chess.com Platform.
“Winning by a wide margin against Bangkok and Camarines is a good motivation for Laguna Heroes. Hoping to continue our fine games in the quarterfinals.” Arena Grandmaster Dr. Fred Paez said.
Laguna survived a 5.5-1.5 win over Bangkok in blitz on victories by Grandmaster Rogelio “Banjo” Barcenilla Jr. (Board 1), Fide Master Austin Jacob Literatus (Board 2), Woman National Master Jean Karen Enriquez (Board 3), Fide Master Jose Efren Bagamasbad (Board 4), Grandmaster John Paul Gomez (Board 5) and a draw by Candidate Master Arjie Bayangat (Board 7).
The Heroes also dominated Bangkok in the rapid event, 10-4, with Barcenilla, Literatus, Michella Concio (Board 3), Vince Angelo Medina (Board 6), and Bayangat winning two points each.
In the second match, Laguna continued its winning ways behind Literatus, Enriquez, Gomez, Medina, and Kimuel Aaron Lorenzo (Board 7) and a draw by Barcenilla in the blitz event.
The Laguna Heroes also toppled Camarines Soaring Eagle in the rapid event, 12-2, thanks to Literatus, Concio, Gomez, Medina, and Lorenzo who had two points each as well as draws by Barcenilla and Bagamasbad.
They finished the elimination road at third spot with a 19-4 win-loss card. (PR) – bny
