Philippine coach urges early prep for ASEAN chess fest in 2018

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines hopes to ride on its successful performance in the 18th Association of Southeast Asian Nation Age Group Chess Championships in Malaysia as it hosts the 19th edition of the annual tournament for woodpushers 20 years old and below in Davao City from June 18-28 next year.

“We should start preparations already as we will be the host in June next year in Davao City,” said national team coach Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales.

Gonzales was with the Philippine squad that raked in a whopping 83 gold, 37 silver and 29 bronze medals in multiple age class of individual and team events of standard, rapid and blitz plays, the country’s best performance in the almost the last two decades.

Aside from the 47-member Philippine side, the weeklong event drew 250 participants from host Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, China and Australia.

Gonzales said they expect the number to double next year.

“We are looking at more participating countries and about 500 players to join,” he said.

Kaye Lalaine Regidor and Ruelle Canina spearheaded the campaign and swept all six golds available in their respective divisions.

And Gonzales wants the Philippine to prepare early.

“If the NCFP will approve it, we want to start preparations as soon as possible,” he said.