THE recent induction of Asia’s first GM Eugene Torre to the World Chess Hall of Fame is another tremendous boost to the popularity of chess in the country.

Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) Chairman Michael Angelo Chua said Torre’s newest achievement in the international stage could provide another spark that should keep chess alive even during the pandemic.

“PCAP, which selected GM Torre as its No. 1 player during our first-ever draft, is very honored for this achievement,” said Chua during the weekly “Usapang Sports on Air” by the Tabloids Organization in Philippine Sports (TOPS) via Zoom recently.

“In fact, all Filpinos should be very proud and honored with Torre’s induction into the Hall of Fame. Hindi lang tayo sa chess community, but buong bansa ang dapat mag-diwang,” Chua told editors and reporters during the weekly public service program sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and Games and Amusements Board (GAB).

“Magandang halimbawa si Torre sa mga kabataan natin. His success could provide the spark and inspire more young players to want to become chess players. Makatutulong ang chess sa pag-develop ng mental and strategic skills on and off the chess board.”

Chua also said the 69-year-old Torre, who was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Rizal Towers during the recent PCAP Draft, will also be part of the coming PCAP All-Star Extravaganza scheduled on May 2.

“Torre is one of the top vote-getters during our recent 10-day voting, along with GMs Mark Paragua of Camarines Soaring Eagles and Darwin Lylo of the Pasig Pirates.”

“The PCAP All Star Extravaganza will be a series of events for all of us on May 2. It will be like PCAP Summit. We will have media discussion about the coming GM Wesley So Cup, followed by the formal awarding ceremony for the recently-concluded All-Filipino Conference and of course, the PCAP All-Star Game,” explained Chua.

Also present during the forum also shown on Facebook and YouTube were Paragua and PCAP Vice-Chairman Ariel Potot of Cordova Dagami Warriors.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Ed Andaya