On a quiet Sunday morning at the Centermall of the Greenhills Shopping Center in San Juan, Pacis exploded with a 38-move victory over top seed NM Ronald Dableo, even as the 27-year old Balico toppled FIDE Master Fernie Donguines after 51 moves of an Alekhine.
Pacis, seeded no. 34, surprised the 23-year old Dableo with a rook sacrifice nearing the endgame, triggering a series of moves that exposed blacks King to vulnerable attack.
Balico also picked up his seventh point via another upset victory at the expense of Donguines, the no. 13 seed, in an Alekhine Opening.
Also with seven points are 74th seed Melvin Merelos, IM Barlo Nadera, IM Nelson Mariano and NM Petronio Roca.
International Master Chito Garma drew with Meralos to remain in the lead with eight points, and is now only a draw away from making it to the finals.