Lorena captures Malilipot, Albay Open chessfest

National Master Carlo Lorena of Daraga, Albay emerged champion in the 2nd Open Invitational Chess Tournament held recently in Malilipot, Albay.

Lorena, one of the top players of governor Al Francis C. Bichara, finished with 6.5 points.

He went home with the top prize P6,000 for his victory in the seven-round Swiss system format tournament, organized by Local Government Unit (LGU) Malilipot.

National Master (NM) Jose Efren Bagamasbad of Talisay, Camarines, Norte placed second with 5.5 points with a superior tie break points to receive the P4,000 runner-up purse.

Also with 5.5 points each were 3rd place Marvid Zuniega of Legaspi City, Albay, 4th place Rene del Castillo of Bulan, Sorsogon and 5th place Arnold Samporna of Albay.

Completing the top nine were National Master (NM) Glennen Artuz of Naga City, Camarines, Sur, John Marco Balane of Sipocot, Camarines Sur, Danny Bon of Gubat, Sorsogon and Roilo Bihag of Naga City, Camarines, Sur.

Tournament Director is Obed Barrios, Chief of Supervising Arbiter is Alexis Orlain and assisted by Joy Baraquiel and Jose Belen.