Barotac Viejo to host memorial chess tournament

BAROTAC VIEJO, Iloilo — The local government of Barotac Viejo and organizers led by chess champion Neymark Digno are set to hold the Coach Eugene “Oyen” Tupas Memorial Summer Chess Tournament on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the second floor of the Barotac Viejo Public Market.

The event is being positioned as both a community sports gathering and a tribute to the life and legacy of Coach Eugene “Oyen” Tupas, whose work in chess continues to inspire young players to pursue discipline, excellence, and a deeper love for the game.

Organizers said the tournament aims to draw chess enthusiasts from across Iloilo and nearby areas while giving young people a constructive space for competition, learning, and mental development through sport.

The competition is scheduled for 6–7 rounds under a rapid format of 10 minutes plus a five-second increment.

It is open to 60–70 players with a local rating of 2000 and below.

Prizes will include cash awards, medals, and special citations.

The registration fee is PHP 250.

Organizers also plan to open summer chess training enrollment on the same day for beginners and aspiring young players who want to learn the fundamentals of the game or improve their skills.

The summer enrollment component highlights the broader youth development goal behind the event, extending the program beyond a one-day competition and into grassroots training.

The tournament is being organized by Digno, a two-time NCAA chess champion who has continued promoting chess at the community level in Iloilo through tournaments and mentoring young players.

Digno won the NCAA Season 96 seniors online chess crown while representing Lyceum of the Philippines University.