National Master Rolzon Roullo of Tanjay City, the current Buglasan holder, snared the Lupad Dumaguete Fiesta Open chess title.
Second place award went to the equally-talented NM Merben Roque of Cebu, while 3rd place went to Bacolod-based Engr. Adrian dela Cruz.
In the Juniors category, top-seeded Lance Nathaniel Orlina of Sibulan added another hardware to his collection, with a hairline championship victory wherein he tied in 1st place with Dauin’s fast rising prospect, Markley Partosa, who eventually bagged 2nd place. At 3rd place is former regional player Raphael Iyas from Tanjay City.
In the Elementary category, Bacolod City’s John Marco Agulto made a rare sweep in the ultra-competitive division highlighted by a last round win over top-rated Triton Blue Ares Garcia of Cebu. Garcia settled for 2nd, while Batang Pinoy qualifier Brett Pert Catipay made a big leap for 3rd spot.
In the Dama event, local bet Roberto Gajetos upended his fancied rivals to rule the annual Dama competition. Romeo Monceda settled for 2nd place, while Lemuel Alves was relegated to 3rd spot.
A combined massive turn-out of 320 participants all over the Visayas registered for the dama and chess events sponsored by the Dumaguete local government, and organized by the City Sports Office led by Ike Xavier Villaflores, and the Negros Club 64 with Alfredo Dumalag. Special guests of the event included the Provincial Sports officers from Negros Occidental. (Antonio Martin Olendo)
