De la Cerna, 45, rules UV Scrabble Challenge

CEBU, Philippines - Renante de la Cerna, who once reigned as the country's top scrabble player, shot back to the limelight after topping the University of the Visayas (UV) Scrabble Challenge the other day at the school's multi-media room.

The 45-year-old De la Cerna summoned his old, sharp form to outwit 38 other contenders with eight wins.

De la Cerna, a proud product of UV, was Phl's No.1 player in 2001. He was dislodged from that lofty post by Odette Rio of Iloilo in 2006. The following year, however, Teodoro Matus snatched the top ranking, which he currently held until now.

Ironically, Martus, last year's champion, placed only sixth this time.

Another veteran word wizard in Dart Eslao placed second with six wins and 700 points spread, while Jowar Ayuno settled for third with six wins and 500 points spread.

UV varsity player Khiel Acasili came in fourth followed by Jullence Labalan and Martus.

This year's edition of the annual event featured Cebu's top scrabblers from all ages, from the old down to the new generation.

Aside from trophies and medals, the champion pocketed P1,500, while the second and third took home P1,800 and   P1, 000, respectively. The fourth and fifth got P500 and P200. (FREEMAN)