Historic FIDE-rated chess tournament debuts in Bataan

Bataan hosted its first-ever FIDE-rated tournament during the 8th Bataan Standard Chess Tournament on Feb. 21 and 22 at SM City Bataan, drawing more than 90 players.

The event signaled the emergence of the province as a new destination for competitive chess, with participants from Bataan, Pampanga, Bulacan, Baguio, Pangasinan, Marikina, Olongapo, and Isabela to compete in the Kiddie and Open divisions.

Board Member Mylene Serrano, representing the Provincial Government of Bataan, led the opening rites and expressed pride in the province’s hosting of its first internationally rated tournament. She said the event is expected to inspire young Bataeños to pursue chess and elevate their level of play. Tournament co-organizer and chess benefactor Dr. Rhea Anne Mangabilen also described the competition as a historic breakthrough and voiced hope that Bataan would soon produce its own chess masters.

Organizer and National Chess Arbiter Erickson Marimla emphasized the importance of the event for local players, noting that they no longer need to travel far to gain international ratings, as Bataan can now host high-level competitions. Earlier, Romeo Quintos, president of the Bataan Chess Players Association, said that through Bataan Checkmate, the official chess team of the Provincial Government of Bataan, plans are underway to promote chess at the grassroots level and develop local talents in the province.

Organizers also thanked the management of SM City Bataan for allowing the mall to serve as the venue for the event.