Manila: University of Santo Tomas and Far Eastern University dominated their respective divisions in the blitz category of the UAAP Season 88 collegiate chess tournament at Adamson University on Sunday. UST defeated Ateneo de Manila University (3.5-0.5, 3-1, 3-1) in the semis to forge a championship duel with FEU, which prevailed over De La Salle University (4-0, 2.5-1.5, 1.5-2.5, 2-2).
According to Philippines News Agency, after sweeping Round 1, UST escaped with a 2.5-1.5 win in Round 2 before securing the title with a 2-2 draw in Round 3. Jan Clifford Labog (Board 2), Christian Mark Daluz (Board 3), Chester Neil Reyes (Board 4), and Carl Daluz (Board 6) delivered the gold medals, while Vince Pascual (Board 5) took the silver medal. UST head coach and Grandmaster-elect Ronald Dableo highlighted the team's improved lineup and their advantage in the bottom boards.
Meanwhile, FEU captured the women's crown over La Salle, led by WNM Vic Glysen Derotas, who secured the gold medal on Board 3 and won the MVP award. Derotas expressed pride in her achievement, emphasizing the significance of receiving a special award. Woman FIDE Master Francesca Largo (Board 1), Woman National Master Mhage Sebastian (Board 4), and Kate Ordizo (Board 5) earned silver medals, while Samantha Umayan (Board 6) also claimed a gold medal.
Despite their runner-up finish, the Tamaraws celebrated MVP and Rookie of the Year honors, awarded to International Master Mark Jay Bacojo and Jerish John Velarde, respectively. Bacojo emphasized the importance of the team's performance in the UAAP as a team tournament. FEU-Diliman secured victories in the boys and girls titles, marking a significant achievement.
FEU-D head coach and Grandmaster Jayson Gonzales expressed joy in being part of history, as blitz chess became a regular sport in the UAAP with FEU winning three out of four division titles. Special award recipients in the boys division included King Xyan Beltran (MVP) and Lord Yofiel Young (Rookie of the Year), while in the girls division, WIM Ruelle Canino (MVP) and LJ Getubig (Rookie of the Year) were recognized.
