Shining Stars in Chess

The game of chess requires strategic thinking, mental agility, and unwavering focus. It is a sport that tests the intellect and determination of its players, and two young chess prodigies from Calubian Leyte, Philippines have been making waves in the chess community with their remarkable skills. Meet Keen Andie

F. Nierras, 17 years old, and Adrian Dave F. Nierras, 15 years old, who have been making their mark in the world of chess, coached by the esteemed Ms. Genedina A. Mabulac.

The Nierras brothers recently secured a victory in chess (SB) in the highly anticipated Area 3 Athletic Meet held on February 4, 2023, at Tabango, Leyte. Hailing from Guadalupe Calubian, Leyte, Keen and Adrian are the sons of Tony Nierras and Flordeliza Nierras. From a young age, they were captivated by the intricacies of the game of chess and devoted countless hours to honing their skills. With unwavering support from their parents and the guidance of their coach, Ms. Genedina A. Mabulac, the Nierras brothers have emerged as formidable opponents on the chessboard.

Jake Robaro Abajon of Calubian National High School hailed victorious after destroying his oppent, Idan Palad of AREA IV, in a round 1 technical knockout during the Provincial Meet Semifinals held at Leyte Sports Academy Tacloban City last February 10,2023.

The stage was set for an intense battle in a first match between Abajon, representing Area III, and his opponent, Idan Palad, representing Area IV, wherein both boxers in top form, eager to claim the win making the match a thrilling encounter.

As the match began, both boxers came out strong, throwing powerful punches, exchanging heavy blows and jabs, looking to gain the upper hand. However, it was Abajon who quickly established his dominance, landing a series of powerful punches that left his opponent reeling. Palad tried to fight back, but Abajon’s quick reflexes and precision proved too much for him.

In the end, it was Abajon who emerged victorious, winning via referee stopping the match (RSTC) due to his opponent sur- rendering after getting knocked out.

The match lasted 2 minutes and 40 seconds, but it was enough for Abajon to prove his mettle and cement his place as the winner.

Abajon then advances to the Youth Boys Light Welterweight Championship (56-60kgs) category.

However, the match was cut short because his opponent Marlon Corbilla from Area IIA was disqualified due to high blood pressure, giving Abajon the win. He will now represent Region VIII for the upcoming EVRAA to be held in Tacloban City.

Despite the unexpected winning, Abajon expressed his joy and his desire to pursue boxing as a future career. He also thanks his family and friends for their unwavering support.

However, Abajon’s hopes of proceeding to the EVRAA boxing competition were dashed due to changes in guidelines, which excluded the light welterweight category. Nevertheless, Abajon remains optimistic and determined to continue his training, hoping to join more boxing matches in the future.

By Justine D. Lozada

Keen, born on April 16, 2006, is the elder brother at 17 years old. He possesses a keen sense of strategy and a sharp tactical mind, which have earned him numerous victories in local and regional chess competitions. His ability to calculate multiple moves ahead and anticipate his opponent’s moves has made him a force to be reckoned with in the chess community.

Adrian, born on October 28, 2007, is the younger brother at 15 years old. Despite his age, he has already shown exceptional talent and promise in chess. Adrian’s intuitive understanding of the game and his ability to think critically under pressure have earned him praise from fellow players and coaches alike. He has proven to be a formidable opponent, often catching his opponents off guard with his unexpected moves and tenacious gameplay.

Under the tutelage of their coach, Ms. Genedina A. Mabulac, the Nierras brothers have honed their skills and developed a deep love for the game of chess. Ms. Mabulac, a seasoned chess coach with years of experience, has been instrumental in their success. Her guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support have helped the Nierras brothers reach new heights in their chess careers.

The recently concluded Area 3 Athletic Meet held in Tabango, Leyte, was a pivotal moment for the Nierras brothers. Competing against tough opponents from different schools in the region, Keen and Adrian displayed exceptional skill, composure, and determination. Their strategic moves and calculated gameplay left their opponents in awe, and they emerged victorious, securing the top spot in the chess (SB) category.

When asked about their success, Keen and Adrian credited their love for the game, the unwavering support of their parents, and the guidance of their coach, Ms. Genedina A. Mabulac. They expressed their gratitude for the opportunities they have been given and their determination to continue striving for excellence in chess.

The Nierras brothers’ success in the recent Area 3 Athletic Meet is a testament to their talent, hard work, and dedication to the game of chess. With their impressive skills and unwavering determination, they are undoubtedly poised for a bright future in the world of chess. As they continue to compete in local and regional competitions, the Nierras brothers are undoubtedly shining stars in the world of chess, inspiring fellow chess enthusiasts and leaving a lasting legacy in their community.

By Vincent Daniel D. Ponce

1ST CALUBIAN INVITATIONAL MOTORCROSS.

As Calubian, Leyte commemorate its Town Fiesta on August 15-16, the Local Government Unit head ed by Hon. Marciano A. Batiancela Jr. in cooperation of Sanguniang Bayan Members, sperheaded a one day motorcross racing at Eamiguel’s Vacant lot, Brgy. Villalon Calubian, Leyte. “The event aims to promote motorcross racing in the municipality, encouraging both young and adult Calubianons to embrace the said sport”, Hon. Noel Eamiguel said. ( story by Martina Sofia L. Torlao)