Daniel Quizon, the country's newest chess grandmaster, will spearhead a strong cast of competitors clashing in the 3rd Governor Henry Oaminal Open Chess Festival on November 4-5 at the Asenso Global Gardens, Hoyohoy, Tangub City, Misamis Occidental.
The 20-year-old Quizon looms as the player to beat in this nine-round Swiss system Fide-rated rapid chess tournament owing to his recent performances here and abroad.
"I am looking forward to playing in the 3rd Governor Henry S. Oaminal Open Chess Festival and hopefully, get good results," said Quizon, who broke the 2500 Elo barrier during the Budapest Chess Olympiad last month to complete his GM status.
Quizon, playing under the support of Dasmariñas Mayor Jenny Barzaga and Councilor Kiko Barzaga, also topped the 2nd Gov. Henry Oaminal Open Rapid Chess Tournament in Clarin, Misamis Occidental on July 9-10, 2024.
Also competing in the tournament are GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr., GM Darwin Laylo, International Master Michael Concio Jr., IM Rolando nolte, IM Ronald Bancod, IM Joel Pimentel, IM Rico Mascarinas, IM Eric Labog jr., Fide Master Roel Abelgas, FM Austin Jacob Literatus, FM Victor lluch, FM David Elorta, FM Christian Gian Karlo Arca and National Master Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr., among others.
Asia's first grandmaster and Hall of Famer Eugene Torre, meanwhile, has been invited to grace the opening ceremony of the tournament and is expected to make the ceremonial opening moves along with Gov. Henry Oaminal, Mayor Henry Oaminal Jr. and Rep. Sancho Fernando Oaminal. At least P428,000 in cash prizes will be given away to the winners of the Fide-rated rapid chess competition with the open division champion receiving the P50,000 top purse.
The Top 20 players will also get consolation prizes.
Cash prizes are also at stake for the winners in the under-13, under-17, and blitz event.
The top performer from Misamis Occidental will also recveive an award.
The tournament is in line with the celebration of the 95th provincial anniversary of Asenso Misamis Occidental.