Campo: Get virus out of RP chess

Florencio Campomanes, who knows Philippine chess like the back of his hand, has welcomed the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) move investigating players allegedly involved in game-fixing.

"It’s a virus. And the only way to excise it or at least contain it is with an iron hand," said the 79-year-old honorary president of FIDE, the international chess federation.

"And it’s a good thing that the NCFP president, Butch Pitchay, is hands-on on this. Otherwise, what’s the use of all these tournaments, programs and policies of our generous chess president?" Campomanes said.

"But let us hope that the remedy here is not punitive. It could be the reforming of these individuals if they are ready to reform. Before we hold another big tournament, this has to be cleared," he added.

Allegations that some big-name players are involved in game-fixing or networking came out a week ago, leading to an NCFP investigation, more charges and a lot of denials from the those being accused.

But Campomanes said the air should be cleared as soon as possible because there are players, who are "clean and honest" that are also suffering.

"The rumors tend to be exaggerated and when it happens everyone falls suspect. And this is unfair. We have good, well-behaved players in the chess community," he said.

"And how would the public view this? Of course there will be some knee-jerking. Of course there’s hope for a fresh start. Butch Pichay has the courage of his words and he’s calling a spade a spade.

"He’s coming to grips with the problem and I’m certain that he will lay down the rule on the culprits. If there are any," said Campomanes, who remembers suspending three local players in the past for the same thing.