The Eugene Torre Chess Foundation, Inc. is organizing the event, which has the blessings of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) under Butch Pichay, the Asian Chess Federation and FIDE.
“This will be a historic event because one of the world’s sporting icons, Manny Pacquiao, is supporting us. We will make sure it becomes a successful event,” said Torre.
Registration to the tournament is ongoing, according to Asia’s first grandmaster. He expects the top players from China, India, Vietnam, Indonesia and the former Soviet republics to compete.
The NCFP has already sent invitations to the different national federations, and so far Torre said there’s been a tremendous response.
He added that Filipino players, the International Masters and the National Masters, are also very interested in joining the event.
“We are all very excited. I hope a Filipino qualifies for the World Cup. We will be happy with one but it will be a big bonus if we get two slots,” said Torre.
Organizers are waiting for the arrival of ACF vice president and FIDE ratings administrator Toti Abundo from the Middle East before they announce the breakdown of the cash prizes.
Red Dumuk, NCFP board member, said they are working on the live streaming of the top board matches during the tournament, and the setting up of TV screens at the hotel lobby for the fans.
Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com
What’s his rating?