DAVAO CITY---There is no doubt veteran chesser and Surigao Checkmates owner Arena Grand Master (AGM) Rey Urbiztondo has tremendous respect and following from the Masonic communities in the Philippines.
Urbiztondo was recently given a plaque of appreciation during the 42nd Installation of Officers of Palilan ML 239, Jimenez, Misamis Occidental, last March 11.
It is the 4th of 5 lodges installations for Masonic District RX Misamis Occidental.
The veteran chess player and organizer are pleased and humbled by the trust given to him by the Masonic community.
"Thank you for the plaques of appreciation given to the DDGM from 4 masonic lodges: Palilan 239, TS Uy 349, Don Lorenzo 265, and Mt. Malindang 130," Urbiztondo said.
During the event, he also lauded GOHAS VW Governor Henry S. Oaminal, H.A., PDDGM, for the enormous donation to the lodge.
Last February 25, Urbiztondo received similar recognition from Timoteo S. Uy Sr. Masonic Lodge No. 349 in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental.
The National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) bestowed an honorary National Master title to Urbiztondo for promoting chess actively in Mindanao.
This award is in recognition of an individual whose advocacy is to promote chess in their respective regions by actively supporting several chess programs and activities through sponsorship and donation, which helps the aspiration of Filipino players, especially the youth. Likewise, in general, the whole Philippine Chess Community," NCFP said on its official Facebook page.
Urbiztondo is happy and proud to be given the honorary NM ranking.
As the owner of Checkmates, Urbiztondo is giving a form of livelihood to some chess players in Mindanao in the PCAP tournaments.
Aside from Urbiztondo, the team is managed by Engr. Dodjie Morales and sponsored by Congressman Robert Ace Barbers.
PCAP is the first professional chess league in the Philippines. The players are provided salary and incentives from their team, just like in other professional sports like the PBA.
Urbiztondo is also busy organizing chess tournaments to allow Mindanao players to participate and earn if they win. (Romeo Braceros Jr.)
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