Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca contemplates his next move during a chess game in this undated photo. The 16-year-old from Panabo, Davao del Norte on Monday (March 17, 2025) bagged the blitz and rapid titles in the Under-18 Open division of the National Age Group Chess Championships at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas to represent the country in the Asian Youth Championships in Thailand in November 2025. (Contributed photo)
FIDE Master Christian Gian Karlo Arca showcased his dominance at the National Age Group Chess Championships, sweeping both the blitz and rapid events in the Under-18 Open division. The tournament was held at the FPJ Arena in San Jose, Batangas.
The 16-year-old chess prodigy from Panabo, Davao del Norte, delivered a stellar performance, securing victories in both categories. He also claimed second place in the standard event, further cementing his status as one of the country’s top young chess players.
With his double triumph, Arca has earned the honor of representing the Philippines at the Asian Youth Chess Championships, set to take place from November 20 to 30 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Other standout performers included Jersey Marticio, who ruled the Under-18 girls’ rapid and blitz events, as well as Khana Kathrine Ventolero, who swept the Under-12 girls’ rapid and blitz categories. In the Under-12 boys’ division, Sebastian Damonsong emerged victorious in rapid, while Roel Pagatpatan claimed the blitz title.
Joining Arca in the Thailand-bound delegation are Rouelle Canino and April Joy Claros, who will compete in the Under-18 Open standard category.
The National Age Group Chess Championships was made possible through the support of Mayor Ben Patron, FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Rep. Mark Lester Patron, the Philippine Sports Commission, and the National Chess Federation of the Philippines.
