SM Baguio chess tournament draws players across generations
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines, June 21 — A chess tournament hosted by SM City Baguio drew players across generations, underscoring the growing popularity of the game in the mountain city and its role in strengthening community ties and family relationships.
The event brought together young beginners, seasoned competitors and chess enthusiasts in a display of concentration, strategy and sportsmanship, reflecting the steady growth of Baguio’s local chess scene.
Participants filled the tournament area with quiet intensity as they weighed moves and counter-moves across the chessboard, while organizers highlighted the game’s educational and social benefits beyond competition.
Among those who joined were father-and-daughter tandem Romel Valdez and Mary Grace Valdez, a Batang Pinoy gold medalist, whose shared passion for chess has evolved from casual games at home into a meaningful family tradition.
Romel said the game has become a tool for teaching patience, discipline and critical thinking while allowing him to spend quality time with his daughter.
For Mary Grace, chess serves both as a competitive pursuit and a way to strengthen family bonds. Her participation in tournaments continues to build on lessons learned through years of playing alongside her father.
The tournament also showcased the broader appeal of chess as a platform for learning and personal development.
Players exchanged handshakes after matches and shared advice between rounds, reinforcing a culture of respect and camaraderie within the local chess community.
Chess has gained increasing visibility in Baguio in recent years through community events and local competitions that encourage participation from players of all ages.
Organizers said such activities help cultivate interest in the game while providing opportunities for aspiring competitors to develop their skills.
The event highlighted how chess continues to bring together individuals from different backgrounds through a common interest in strategy and problem-solving.
SM City Baguio said it remains committed to supporting community-centered activities that promote learning, recreation and meaningful engagement among residents.
The tournament concluded with participants celebrating not only competitive achievements but also the friendships, lessons and family connections forged through the game.
(Source: SM Supermalls press release)
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