For Concio sisters, chess is an opportunity and a way to honor their father

MANILA, Philippines – If you scour the landscape of Philippine chess, aside from the obvious talent and competitiveness, one can say that it is a family affair. The Garmas, Reyeses, Labogs, Buenaventuras, Villasenors and Tumaliuans to name but a few can attest to that.

And there are the Concio sisters — Michaela and Michella. The former plays for the Quezon City Simba’s Tribe while the latter is with their hometown team of the Laguna Heroes.

The two credit their father, Michael Concio Sr., not only with inculcating the love of the sport in them but for also making an impact with the chess community in Laguna.

“He worked as a government official, but at the same time, he was dedicated to chess,” recounted Michella. “He was a chess player, arbiter, and a trainer. He conducted chess clinics and tournaments to inspire the youth.”

Chimed in older sister Michaela, “Dad taught us how to play when we were young. We never really thought we’d be in this seriously until Michella qualified for a regional meet.”

“I was a dancer and also part of a band in high school, but when I saw my sister’s achievements, I left everything to dedicate myself to chess.”

Aside from her father, Michaela also credits current Laguna Heroes owner AGM and Dr. Fred Paez for her career. 

Dr. Paez recruited Michaela for Colegio de San Juan de Letran-Calamba but before she could begin her collegiate career, he asked Michaela where she wanted to study in Manila.

“Sayang ang talent mo kapag dito ka sa province,” Michaela quoted Dr. Paez as advising her. 

Without batting an eyelash, Michaela said, “UST.”

Paez then contacted UST coach Ronald Dableo and of the seven players who applied for a slot on the UAAP team, it was Michaela who topped the tryout.

UST provided a full scholarship, food allowance, a dorm and a basic school allowance.

Like her older sister, Michella also went to UST. 

After their playing years, the sisters took a corporate job. But when the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines opened shop in late 2020, the two quickly joined the fledgling pro loop.

Michaela joined the Quezon City Simba’s Tribe while Michella played for the Mindoro Tamaraws for two conferences before joining her hometown team, the Laguna Heroes.

“I was able to play (against) my ate last conference. She won. If we ever cross paths again, I will have my revenge,” laughed Michella.

“I am happy and sad where I am now,” fessed up Michaela. “I have a job I love. And a professional chess career because of PCAP. And I just got my first chess title. It’s sad that our dad is not around to see my accomplishments.”

For her part, the elder sister spoke of her commitment to Quezon City. “It’s really important to trust, honor your commitment and loyalty to the team. Being at the bottom for two conferences made me sad but at the same time, it inspired me to do better. That is why I am pushing myself to get a title this year. And I believe we can do so much better this conference.”