By: Elijah La Torre and Hannah Vere
Copyedited by: Jeyana Sophia Caparros
Photos: Daniel Quintin

Players from all year levels gathered to represent their teams and compete for victory in the 2024 Intramurals Chess Tournament at Pasay City National Science High School on October 9.

Strategic mastermind Neil Josh Icaro achieved an impressive 7-point score across seven rounds in the Boys’ Chess Swiss System tournament during the 2024 Intramurals. With a whirlwind of tactical moves, he left his opponents fazed, securing the victory for the Chiefs.

Meanwhile, rising prodigy Quendra Ulep of the Archers delivered an outstanding performance in the Girls’ Chess Swiss System tournament, claiming the title with a score of 6 points in the same event.

In the first five rounds, each player received fifteen minutes, allowing ample time to strategize and make thoughtful moves. However, the final two rounds saw the time limit reduced to just ten minutes per player, increasing the pressure and requiring quick decision-making under intense competition.

Ulep opened her tournament against Reisha Uy of the Eagles,  both players showcased their skills as they carefully navigated their strategies, making calculated moves to outmaneuver each other. Despite their efforts, the game culminated in a tense seven round standoff. Ulep edged out Uy by a narrow 0.5-point margin, resulting in a draw.

Meanwhile, Icaro took an early lead by defeating Shawn Kenneth Deodor 1-0 in his first game. He showcased exceptional skill and strategy, controlling the board and effectively countering Deodor’s moves, setting the stage for his impressive performance throughout the tournament. He also triumphed with a decisive 2-point victory over Gid Alcantara of the Spartans.