The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) have joined forces to launch a groundbreaking program aimed at identifying and nurturing the country's top young chess players.
The Batang Pinoy Chess Henyo Grassroots Program, set to commence on August 1, will bring together 36 talented woodpushers, 12 from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, who have already made a name for themselves in regional qualifiers.
The program, designed to provide a structured training regimen, marks a significant milestone in Philippine grassroots chess development, paving the way for the country's future national athletes.
NCFP Chief Executive Officer Jayson Gonzales, a Grandmaster and national women's team coach, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, citing its potential to create a strong foundation for the country's chess development.
The selection of participants includes Aaliyan Borden, Alyiah Beltran, and 33 other young chess enthusiasts from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao who will undergo intensive training and guidance under the program.
With the support of PSC Chair Patrick C. Gregorio and NCFP Chief Prospero “Butch” Pichay, Jr., the project is set to launch with the goal of producing future Grandmasters and national team members.
