Filipino Chess Prodigy Triumphs in ASEAN Blitz Championship
Filipino Fide Master Alekhine Nouri has emerged victorious in the Open blitz category of the ASEAN Individual Chess Championships - Gov. Henry Oaminal Cup. The 19-year-old chess sensation secured the gold medal after a hard-fought tournament that concluded on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the Misamis Occidental Resort and Aquamarine Park in Ozamiz City.
Nouri's Path to Victory
In the crucial final match, Nouri faced Russian International Master Miroslav Vlasenko in what turned into an epic 61-move battle using the Nimzovich defense. Reflecting on his win, the young champion stated, "I just played my game and took it as an opportunity, good thing I won." This victory adds another significant achievement to Nouri's growing reputation, as he currently holds both the Asian juniors rapid champion and national junior champion titles.
The tournament saw Nouri finish tied for first place with compatriot Grandmaster Daniel Quizon, both accumulating eight points each. However, Nouri claimed the top podium position by virtue of having higher tiebreak points. The Filipino champion further demonstrated his dominance by defeating Quizon in their seventh-round encounter.
Complete Medal Standings and Other Winners
The silver medal in the Open blitz category went to GM Daniel Quizon, who secured his position by defeating IM Christian Gian Karlo Arca in 47 moves using a King's Indian Attack. Indonesian GM Novendra Priasmoro captured the bronze medal with seven points, after prevailing over Filipino IM Mark Jay Bacojo in 31 moves of a Sicilian defense.
In the women's division, several notable performances included:
- WGM Janelle Mae Frayna winning bronze medals in both rapid and blitz categories
- WFM Allaney Jia Doroy claiming the silver medal in blitz
- Russian WFM Anna Zhurova and Vietnamese WIM Nguyen Hong Anh dominating the rapid and blitz categories respectively
The men's rapid gold medal was won by Vietnam's IM Nguyen Quoc Hy, showcasing the strong international competition at the event.
This tournament not only highlights the rising talent in Philippine chess but also reinforces the country's position as a breeding ground for world-class chess players. Nouri's victory at such a prestigious regional competition signals a bright future for Filipino chess on the international stage.
