IM Yap rules Mandaue chess

INTERNATIONAL Master (IM) Kim Steven Yap flashed his woodpushing mastery as he topped last weekend’s Mandaue City Mayor’s Cup Chess Open held at the Mandaue Sports Complex.

Yap outplayed other rated Cebuano players Anthony Makinano (2nd place), Carlos Moreno (3rd), Edsel Montoya, Mark Alunan and Erwin Ababat who tied for fourth to fifth places, respectively.

Aldritz Pondoyo dominated the 13 years old and below competition with John Jerish Velarde and Andrew Balbona in second and third spots, respectively.

In the 18-under competition, multi-titled Rhenzi Kyle Sevillano added another title to his brimming collection followed by Diego Claro and Felix Shaun Balbona.

In the women’s division, Airene Robillos edged Hazel Sato for the title while Marvie Abucay rounded out the top three winners. /CORRESPONDENT DALE G. ROSAL