By Jean Malanum

CHESS WIZ. FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca contemplates his next move during a chess game in this undated photo. The 16-year-old from Panabo, Davao del Norte on Monday (March 17, 2025) bagged the blitz and rapid titles in the Under-18 Open division of the National Age Group Chess Championships at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas to represent the country in the Asian Youth Championships in Thailand in November 2025. (Contributed photo)

MANILA – FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca dominated the blitz and rapid categories of the premier Under-18 Open division in the National Age Group Chess Championships at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas.

The 16-year-old from Panabo, Davao del Norte swept both categories and settled for second place in the standard event.

For his twin victories, Arca will represent the country in the Asian Youth Chess Championships slated on Nov. 20 to 30 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Other winners were Jersey Marticio (U18 girls rapid and blitz), Khana Kathrine Ventolero (U12 girls rapid and blitz), Sebastian Damonsong (U12 boys rapid) and Roel Pagatpatan (U12 boys blitz).

Also going to Thailand are Rouelle Canino and April Joy Claros, who will compete in the U18 Open standard category.

The National Age Group Chess Championships was supported by Mayor Ben Patron and FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Mark Lester Patron, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the National Chess Federation of the Philippines. (PNA)