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GET TO KNOW NCFP

Statement from the National Chess Federation of the Philippines

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As the National Chess Federation of the Philippines, we are honored to carry forward the mission of promoting and elevating the game of chess across our nation. Chess is more than a sport; it is a powerful tool for intellectual development, discipline, and strategic thinking. Our goal is to make chess accessible to every Filipino, young and old, and to foster an environment where talent, resilience, and sportsmanship are celebrated.

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We are committed to nurturing the next generation of Filipino chess players, with a focus on increasing the representation of women in chess, empowering them to achieve the title of Grandmaster. The journey toward building a stronger roster of women Grandmasters is a priority, as we believe that gender equality in chess enriches the game, inspires future players, and uplifts our society as a whole.

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Chess has long been a source of pride in the Philippines, contributing to our national identity and showcasing Filipino excellence on the global stage. Through training programs, tournaments, and community initiatives, we aim to strengthen our country's presence in international competitions and to inspire a lifelong love for chess in all Filipinos. Together, we will ensure that chess continues to thrive as a cornerstone of Philippine culture, education, and sportsmanship."

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This statement reflects the federation's dedication to advancing chess within the Philippines and its commitment to nurturing both male and female chess talent to achieve international recognition.

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OFFICIALS

Mayor Tolentino

First Vice President

Vice Gov. Athena Bryana Tolentino
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Second Vice President

Hon. Atty. Ruel V. Canobas
Pacman Pacquiao
Third Vice President
Hon. Emmanuel D. Pacquiao
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Secretary General
Cong. Carlo Sandro L. Gonzalez
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Treasurer
Mayor Atty. Christian D. Natividad
NCFP President Prospero A Pichay Jr

Chairman / President

HON. PROSPERO A. PICHAY
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Auditor
Judge Gonzalo Q. Mapili Jr.
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Chairman, Committee on Grassroots Programs
Mayor Seth Frederick P. Jalosjos
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Chairman, Committee on Youth Development
Hon. Atty. Neri J. Colmenares
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Chairman, Committee on Ratings & Titles
NM/ Atty. CresencioV. Aspiras Jr.
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Chairman, Committee on Finance& Promotions
Dir. Luisito G. Ramos
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Chairman, Committee on External Affairs
F/Chief Supt. Jonas R. Silvano
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Chairman, Committee on Internal Affairs
NM Jose Rafael B. Legaspi, REB
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Sergeant at Arms
Dir. Martin M. Gaticales
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Director
NM/Engr. Rey C. Urbiztondo
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Administrative and Rating Officer
IA RedenA. Cruz
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Legal Adviser
Atty. Norieva D. De Vega
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GRANDMASTERS

GM Eugene Torre

  • Peak Rating: 2580

  • Notable Titles: Asia’s first Grandmaster (1974)

GM Rosendo Balinas Jr

  • Peak Rating: 2460 (1976)

  • Notable Title: Winner of the 1976 Odessa International Tournament in the USSR

Rogelio Antonio

  • Peak Rating: 2540 (2000)

  • Notable Title: 13-time Philippine National Chess Champion

Villamayor buenaventura

  • Peak Rating: 2510 (2000)

  • Notable Title: 2000 Asian Zonal Chess Champion

Nelson Mariano ii

  • Peak Rating: 2515 (1999)

  • Notable Title: Champion, 1994 Asian Junior Chess Championship

Mark Paragua

  • Peak Rating: 2621 (2006)

  • Notable Title: First Filipino to break 2600+ rating, 2006

Darwin Laylo

  • Peak Rating: 2500 (2007)

  • Notable Title: Winner of the 2006 Philippine National Chess Championship

Wesley So

  • Peak Rating: 2822 (2017)

  • Notable Title: 2017 World Rapid Chess Champion

Jayson Gonzales

  • Peak Rating: 2501 (1998)

  • Notable Title: 1999 Asian Junior Chess Champion

John Paul Gomez

  • Peak Rating: 2535 (2018)

  • Notable Title: 2014 National Chess Championship Runner-up

Joseph Sanchez

  • Peak Rating: 2496 (2015)

  • Notable Title: First Cebuano GM, achieved title in 2009

Rogelio Barcenilla

  • Peak Rating: 2521 (1994)

  • Notable Title: 1996 Philippine National Chess Champion

salvador

  • Peak Rating: 2495 (1992)

  • Notable Title: 1994 Philippine National Chess Championship Runner-up

Julio Catalino Sadorra

  • Peak Rating: 2523 (2018)

  • Notable Title: 2012 Philippine National Chess Championship Runner-up

Barbosa

  • Peak Rating: 2550 (2014)

  • Notable Title: Winner of the 2013 ASEAN Chess Championship

Richard Bitoon

  • Peak Rating: 2500 (2016)

  • Notable Title: 2016 Philippine National Chess Championship Runner-up

Daniel Quizon

  • Peak Rating: 2537 (2020)

  • Notable Title: 2019 National Juniors Chess Champion

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WOMAN GRANDMASTERS

Janelle Mae Frayna

Janelle Me Frayna is a prominent Filipino chess player who has made significant strides in the chess community. Here are key details about her:

  • Title: She holds the title of Woman Grandmaster (WGM), which she earned in 2017, making her the first female player from the Philippines to achieve this title.

  • Peak Rating: Her peak FIDE rating reached 2411 in 2017, reflecting her competitive abilities on the international stage.

  Notable Achievements:

  • Frayna won the gold medal in the women’s individual event at the 2015 Southeast Asian Games.

  • She has represented the Philippines in various international competitions, including the Women's World Chess Championship and multiple ASEAN events.

  • Academic Background: Janelle is also noted for her academic achievements, being a graduate of the University of the East, where she balanced her studies with her chess career.

  • Impact on Philippine Chess: As a trailblazer for female chess players in the country, she inspires young girls to pursue chess and strive for excellence in the sport.

Janelle Me Frayna continues to be an influential figure in Philippine chess, promoting the game and encouraging participation among women.

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