So leads ‘Battle of GMs’ cast

So, who ruled the first two stagings of the event held in Manila in 2008 and Dapitan City last year, will set out as the overwhelming favorite anew in the prestigious competition organized by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP), headed by chairman/president Prospero “Butch” Pichay, in cooperation with the Tagaytay City government, led by newly re-elected Mayor Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino.

“I expect So to continue to play well and defend his title, but Antonio, Laylo and the rest of the participants are all capable of pulling off some surprises,” said PIchay, who is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the third edition of the tournament.

Tolentino, for his part, said Tagaytay and its chess-loving residents are all happy for this chance to host the country’s top chess players in a no-holds barred competition.

“We have hosted several major chess tournament in the past, including the chess competition in the last SEA Games, but this is the first time that the Battle of GMs will be held here,” said Tolentino, also the secretary-general of the country’s governing chess body.

As much as P200, 000 and a finely-crafted trophy await the champion in this tournament, which will feature the best and the brightest chess players in the country today.

GM Rogelio Antonio, Jr., who finished runner-up to So last year, and GM Darwin Laylo are also expected to figure prominently in the title race

Two other GMs – John Paul Gomez and Jayson Gonzales – make up the list of favored players vying for fame and fortune in this biggest local competition in the country.