Barbosa paces AFPI chess

MANILA, Philippines - IM Oliver Barbosa bested FM Fernie Donguines to seize the solo lead in the Artillery Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (AFPI) “Chess for a Cause” national rapid chess in the sixth round at the Philippine Army gym in Fort Bonifacio, Makati City yesterday.

It was Barbosa’s sixth straight victory as the Taytay, Rizal native moved one point clear off eight others, including GM Joey Antonio, IMs Rolando Nolte, Chito Garma and Jan Garcia, Nelson Villanueva, Alcon John Datu, Raymond Salcedo.

Antonio halved the point with GM Mark Paragua, Nolte also drew with GM Darwin Laylo, Garma defeated NM Alex Milagrosa, Garcia toppled Antonio Chavez, Datu beat NM Rolando Andador, Villanueva disposed of Jerry Areque and Salcedo upset IM Richard Bitoon.

In women’s play, WIM Catherine Perena won over Jenny Rose Palomo to retain the solo lead with 5.5 points. WFM Cherry Ann Mejia defeated WFM Rulp Ylem Jose to stay within striking distance with five points.

The champion and runner-up in the women’s division will earn the right to represent the country in the rapid event of the SEA Games.