These Davao City-based players are Fide Master Austin Jacob Literatus, National Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca, National Master Jonathan Tan, and National Master Alexander Lupian.
The Davaoeos are set to challenge 13-time Philippine Open Champion Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. of Quezon City, World IPCA (International Physically Disabled Chess Association) Champion Fide Master Sander Severino of Silay City, National Master Glennen Artuz of Naga City, National Master Merben Roque of Cebu and Arena Grandmaster Rey Urbiztondo of Surigao Fianchetto Checkmates for the title of the money rich tournament.
Also seeing action in the online tournament backed by friends of the Asenso Pinoy Party-list are Fide Master Vince Alaan and Cyrus Donasco of Surigao, National Master Levi Mercado and Woman National Master Ruelle Canino of Cagayan de Oro City, and National Master Zulfikar Sali of Zamboanga City.
The champion will earn P8,000. The second placer will get P4,000, the third 2,000, the fourth P1,000, and the fifth P500. Sixth to 10th placers will pocket P300 each, 11th to 20th placers will bring home P200 each, and 21st to 30th placers will go home P100 each.
The tournament director is National Master Henry Roger Lopez of Panabo City while the chief arbiter is national arbiter Ely Acas of Davao City. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)
Arena Grandmaster Rey Urbiztondo.