MANILA, Philippines — Al Basher Buto, a 10-year-old kid discovered beating older foes in the streets of Quiapo, Manila a few years ago, showed his intent to representing the country in the World Cadets and Youth Rapid Chess Championships when he ruled the eliminations Saturday night.
Buto swept the last six rounds to finish with eight points out of the possible nine, atop at the open U12 division where he is the favorite to win his age class in the grand finals on Saturday.
Sharing the spotlight with Buto were Woman Grandmaster candidate Kylen Joy Mordido and Michael Concio Jr, who topped girls Under-18 and open U16, respectively.