CEPCA16-under rapid chessfest unfurls today

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Executives and Professionals Chess Association (CEPCA) 16-under rapid tournament for boys and girls will kick off today at the Deep Blue Cafe in SM City-Cebu.

The 7-round Swiss system competition will promptly start at 10:30 this morning.

FIDE Arbiter Marvin Ruelan said more than 40 participants, mostly from local schools led by the University of San Carlos (USC), have already registered for the two-day event supported by chess patron Engr. Benjamin "Bogie" Lim of Rose Pharmacy and the benevolent CEPCA members led by their president Jojo Muralla.

The number of entries, however, is expected to increase as the organizers will be accepting on-site registration.

Trophies for the champions and cash prizes for the top five placers in both categories will be given away by CEPCA.

Also, the top three finishers will qualify for the Batang Pinoy National Finals scheduled later this year.

Entry fee is pegged at P100. For registration, interested parties may go directly to the tournament venue or call call/text Marvin Ruelan at 0926-7352951. (FREEMAN)