GM Laylo replaces GM Sadorra in PHL team for Chess Olympiad

THE NATIONAL Chess Federation of the Philippines has tapped GM Darwin Laylo to replace GM Julio Catalino “Ino” Sadorra in the national team competing in the 44th World Chess Olympiad set August 5 to 18 in Moscow, Russia.

“GM Julio Catalino “Ino” Sadorra will be replaced by GM Darwin Laylo, who placed second to International Master Haridas Pascua in the 4-man elimination tournament held recently, in the Olympic team.” said Atty. Cliburn Anthony Orbe, newly-appointed executive director of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines.

The final line-up according to Mr. Orbe, Laylo, reigning Philippine National Chess Champion GM Rogelio “Banjo” Barcenilla Jr., GM John Paul Gomez, IM Paulo Bersamina and IM Haridas Pascua.

Mr. Laylo, is one of the top players of multi-titled Philippine Army chess team, expressed readiness to take part in his Olympiad quest, saying that he’ll begin intensive training Saturday.

“Special thanks to our NCFP chairman/president Prospero “Butch” Pichay Jr. and executive director Atty. Cliburn Anthony Orbe for this opportunity,” Mr. Laylo said.

Coming off a winning performance at the Hong Bao Rating Tournament 2020 (Open division), the San Roque, Marikina City-based Laylo is looking to follow-up the victory in the Singapore Chess Federation High Performance Enrichment (HPE) in Bishan, Singapore. — Marlon Bernardino