By Kristel Satumbaga
United States-based Grandmasters Mark Paragua and Banjo Barcenilla showed their worth once again by finishing 1-2 in the GM Rosendo Balinas Cup done online over the weekend.
Fresh from playing the top two boards for the Philippine team that saw action in the FIDE Online Olympiad last month, Paragua took the title with 18 points out of a possible 21 while Barcenilla ended up second with 17.
The 30-year-old Paragua, the reigning bullet king, emerged as the lone undefeated participant with 15 wins and six draws, while the 48-year-old Barcenilla struggled with two early losses but recovered in time to finish second.
International Master Jem Emmanuel Garcia was third with 16 points.
The win by Paragua highlighted what had been a productive day as he also triumphed in the rated tournament by the National Chess Tournament as well as the Stay at Home Arena tilt.
In all, Paragua, who thanked Benjamin Lim for sponsoring him, netted P15,000 for his feats.
“I just try to make the most out of my opportunities and I’m thankful for all the blessings,” said Paragua, who now lives in New York.
