CEBU CITY – Isa sa Philippines’ most promising young talents ay nakatutok maging pinakabatang FIDE (World Chess Federation) National Arbiter ng bansa sa paglahok niya sa 2018 Philippine National Games Chess Competition sa Robinsons Galleria Cebu dito.

Si Jerel John Velarde, 17, ay nais ding sundan ang yapak ni Singapore-based International Arbiter Lincoln Yap.

“One of my goal is to be a part of arbiter team in the World Stage such as World Cadet, World Youth and World Chess Olympiad as well,” sabi ni Jerel John, dating top chess player ng Marigondo National High School sa Lapu Lapu City.

Akari Sports wala pang balak pasukin ang PBA

Matatandaan na si Jerel John, kapatid ni Philippine chess wizard at chess champion Jerish John Velarde, ang nanguna sa exam kasama sina veteran campaigner Odilon Badilles at Associate Professor Gamaliel Gonzales, ng Cebu Technological University. Sila ay nakalikom ng tig-35 out of a possible 40 kung saan si Dubai-based International Arbiter/International Organizer Casto “Toti” Abundo ang nagsagawa ng two-day Fide Arbiter Seminar na ginanap sa University of San Carlos main campus noong May 30 hanggang 31, 2017.

“I give my all out support to my child on his chosen sport. Personally I like him playing chess but his passion and love is organizing a chess event,” sabi ng amang si Engr. Edilberto “John” Velarde Jr. na FIDE (World Chess Federation) National Arbiter-elect. (Annie Abad)