Hortelano cops June title in CEPCA monthly

CEBU, Philippines - Ruel Hortelano topped the June edition of the Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (CEPCA) monthly tournament last Sunday at the Knight Attack Cafe in Robinsons Galleria Cebu.

Hortelano, a senior police officer detailed at the Cebu City Police Office, was actually tied with Jonas Bajo who also completed the 5-round Swiss system competition with 4.0 points but got the top honors via a superior tiebreaker.

Bajo placed second followed by Eddie Flores and Jeremy Rose Bajo.

After sweeping his first three games against Henry Cariat, Mario Bustillo, and Joe Atillo, Hortelano fell prey to Eddie Flores in round four.

Hortelano, however, capped his campaign with a crucial win over Cristy Cabuncag and that was all he needed to pocket the title.

Hortelano thus joined early Group B qualifiers Adrian Paraiso, Mario Bustillo, Jun Kidlat, Percival Fiel and John Velarde into the year-ending grand finals also known as the 'Battle of Champions' this December.

The one-day tilt was made possible through the support of US-based Cepcan Dr. Alex C. Olis and Engr. Paolo S. Olis of  Mosaic Corporation. (BANAT NEWS)