Davaoeno Spiker Jose Miguel Rafailes Joins UST Boys Volleyball Team in UAAP High School League

 

Davaoeno talent Jose Miguel Rafailes, a promising young athlete and student at Jose Maria College, has been selected to join the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Boys Volleyball Team in the prestigious UAAP high school league.

This significant achievement marks a milestone for Rafailes, whose dedication and hard work on the volleyball court have paid off, earning him a spot on one of the top teams in the league. The UAAP (University Athletic Association of the Philippines) is renowned for its high level of competition, and being part of this league is a testament to Rafailes’ skills and potential in the sport.

Rafailes' journey from Davao to joining the UST Boys Volleyball Team highlights the growing recognition of athletic talent from various regions of the Philippines. His selection not only brings pride to his family and school but also serves as an inspiration to other young athletes in Davao and beyond.

Jose Maria College has expressed immense pride in Rafailes’ accomplishment. His coaches and mentors at the college have been instrumental in honing his abilities, providing him with the training and support needed to excel in volleyball. The college community is thrilled to see one of their own rise to such a prestigious platform.

Joining the UST Boys Volleyball Team, Rafailes will now be competing at a higher level, facing off against some of the best high school volleyball players in the country. This opportunity will allow him to further develop his skills, gain valuable experience, and potentially pave the way for a future in collegiate volleyball and beyond.

Rafailes' entry into the UAAP high school league is a proud moment not only for him and his family but also for his school and the entire Davao sports community. His story is a powerful reminder that with talent, hard work, and determination, young athletes from all over the Philippines can achieve great heights in their respective sports.

As Rafailes embarks on this new chapter with the UST Boys Volleyball Team, the community eagerly anticipates his performances and achievements in the upcoming UAAP season. His journey is a beacon of hope and motivation for aspiring volleyball players, demonstrating that dreams can indeed become reality with perseverance and dedication.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Chess Legend Eugene Torre will Lead Tournament in Misamis Occidental

 

Eugene Torre, Asia's first Grandmaster and Hall of Famer, will make the ceremonial moves to kick off the 2nd Gov. Henry S. Oaminal Open Chess Tournament on July 9-10 at AYA Hotel and Residences in Clarin, Misamis Occidental.

Joining Torre in the ceremony will be Gov. Henry S. Oaminal, Mayor Henry Oaminal Jr., and Rep. Sancho Fernando Oaminal. Top Filipino chess players, including International Masters Rolando Nolte and Ronald Bancod, FIDE Master Vince Alaan, and US Master Almario Marlon Bernardino Jr., are expected to compete. Participants from Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Zamboanga, and neighboring cities will also join.

A total of P355,000 in cash prizes will be awarded in the FIDE rapid-rated competition, organized by the Asenso Misamis Occidental Fiderated Chess Association (AMOFCA) in coordination with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, the 2nd Congressional District Office, and the Local Government Unit of Ozamis.

The open champion will receive P50,000, with additional prizes for winners in the Under-17, Top Elementary (Under-13), and Top Misamis Occidental categories. Special awards will also be given to the Top Senior (60+), Top Junior (20 and below), Top Lady (U17), Top Lady (U13), and Top Lady (Open) players.

The tournament is part of the celebration of the 76th Ozamiz City Charter Anniversary and the feast of Nuestra Sra. dela Concepcion y del Triunfo de Migpangi.

Davaoeno Matt Lim Honored with Heart of a Champion Award in the US

 

Matt Lim, a standout high school soccer varsity player at Montverde Academy in the United States, has been awarded the prestigious Heart of a Champion Award in recognition of his unwavering dedication and relentless commitment on the soccer  field. This award is a testament to Lim's exceptional passion and determination, qualities that have set him apart in the competitive world of high school soccer.

Lim, the son of Lafayette Lim, owner of the NCCC shopping center chain across Mindanao and Palawan, has shown remarkable perseverance and a fearless pursuit of victory, earning him accolades not just from his teammates and coaches, but also from the broader soccer community. His aggressive yet strategic playstyle, combined with his leadership qualities, has made him a key player for Montverde Academy.

In addition to his athletic prowess, Matt Lim is also a consistent honor student at Montverde Academy, demonstrating his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. His ability to balance the demands of rigorous academic work with high-level athletic competition speaks volumes about his discipline and time management skills.

Adding to his impressive list of achievements, Lim has recently been invited to join the Philippine U-19 training camp, set to run from June 10 to July 10. This camp is a critical part of the team’s preparation for the upcoming AFF U19 Boys Championship 2024, which will be held in Surabaya, Indonesia. His inclusion in this camp not only highlights his talent but also his potential to contribute significantly to the national team.

The Heart of a Champion Award is a fitting recognition for Lim, whose dedication to soccer and his team has been nothing short of inspirational. His journey from Davao to the US, and now to the national training camp, reflects his deep-rooted passion for the sport and his continuous strive for excellence.

As Matt Lim prepares to represent the Philippines in the AFF U19 Boys Championship 2024, he carries with him the hopes and support of his family, school, and country. His story is an inspiration to young athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work, commitment, and a fearless attitude, one can achieve great heights.

Congratulations to Matt Lim for his outstanding achievements and the well-deserved Heart of a Champion Award. Your relentless spirit and dedication serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the globe.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Region 11 chess team dominate CEAP Mindanao Games 2024

 

In a stunning display of strategic brilliance and unwavering determination, the Secondary Chess Team Region 11 has emerged victorious in the Team Category at the CEAP Games 2024. Held at the picturesque Saint Paul University in Surigao City, this year's games brought together the finest young minds in chess from across the region, culminating in a series of matches that were as thrilling as they were intense.

Both the men's and women's teams from Region 11 showcased exceptional skill and teamwork, ultimately claiming the championship title in their respective categories. Their success is a testament to their hard work, strategic planning, and deep understanding of the game.

Adding to the accolades, Nathalie Suter of San Pedro College delivered a masterful performance, clinching the championship in the Individual Category.

Suter is the daughter of veteran broadcaster Jhun Suter.

 Nathalie's journey through the tournament was marked by a series of impressive victories, demonstrating her keen tactical acumen and mental fortitude. Her triumph not only highlights her personal dedication and talent but also underscores the high level of competition present at the CEAP Games.

The CEAP Games 2024 at Saint Paul University provided an excellent platform for young chess enthusiasts to test their skills, learn from their peers, and experience the spirit of sportsmanship. The event, known for fostering camaraderie and excellence in various sports disciplines, once again lived up to its reputation, with chess being a focal point of excitement.

The success of the Secondary Chess Team Region 11 and Nathalie Suter serves as an inspiration to aspiring chess players across the region. Their victories are not just personal achievements but also a reflection of the strong chess culture and support system within their schools and communities.

As the champions return home, they bring with them not only trophies and titles but also the pride of their schools and regions. Their accomplishments at the CEAP Games 2024 will be remembered and celebrated, motivating future generations to aim high and work hard in their pursuit of excellence in chess and beyond.

Congratulations to the Secondary Chess Team Region 11 and Nathalie Suter for their outstanding achievements at the CEAP Games 2024! Your dedication, skill, and sportsmanship have made your schools and communities immensely proud.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Blue-Blooded Forever: Davaoeno star spiker Faith Nisperos Reflects on Her Ateneo Journey

 

Davaoeno spiker Faith Nisperos, a standout player for Alas Pilipinas and current Akari Charger, is set to graduate from Ateneo de Manila University. As she looks back on her remarkable journey, Nisperos shares her experiences and the valuable life lessons she learned while donning the blue and white jersey of the Lady Eagles.

A Memorable Stint with Ateneo

Nisperos' journey began as a volleyball varsity player at Ateneo de Davao University, where her talent and passion for the sport first shone brightly. Transitioning to Ateneo de Manila University, she quickly established herself as a key player for the Lady Eagles. Her tenure at Ateneo was filled with significant moments, from thrilling victories to personal growth both on and off the court.

Learning Life Lessons

Faith reflects on the numerous life lessons she absorbed during her time at Ateneo. "Ateneo taught me the importance of resilience, teamwork, and maintaining a positive attitude, no matter the circumstances," she says. The challenges she faced and overcame molded her into a stronger, more determined individual, both as an athlete and as a person.

Finding Love in Volleyball

Her time at Ateneo deepened her love for volleyball. The supportive community, the bond with her teammates, and the electrifying energy of the games strengthened her passion for the sport. "Volleyball at Ateneo was more than just a game; it was a way of life," Nisperos shares. "Every match, every practice, was an opportunity to grow and to share my love for the sport with others."

Looking Ahead

As she graduates, Faith Nisperos is excited for the future but remains deeply connected to her roots at Katipunan. Her professional career with Akari Chargers is a new chapter, but the foundation built during her time at Ateneo will always be a part of her. "Graduating from Ateneo is a milestone I’m incredibly proud of," she says. "It's a testament to the hard work, dedication, and support from everyone at Ateneo."(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Holy Cross of Davao College Blazers: Dominating the CEAP Mindanao Games 2024!

 

The recently concluded Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2024 in Surigao City witnessed an extraordinary performance from the Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC) Blazers. The Blazers clinched three gold medals across different disciplines, showcasing their athletic prowess and bringing pride to the Davao Region.

Golden Triumph in Women's Volleyball 

Ending a decade-long drought, the HCDC Women's Volleyball Team delivered an impressive performance to secure the gold medal. In a best-of-five match, the Blazers swept Saint Columban College of Region IX with scores of 15-25, 19-25, and 17-25. Their strategic play and unwavering determination were evident as they dominated each set, leading to an emphatic victory and a well-deserved gold for the Davao Region.

Back-to-Back Gold for Women's Basketball Team! 

The HCDC Women's 5x5 Basketball Team defended their title in a resounding fashion, securing a landslide victory against Region IX's Ateneo de Zamboanga. The final score of 94-29 highlighted the Blazers' superior skills and teamwork. This back-to-back gold medal win solidifies their status as a powerhouse in women's college basketball, further elevating the prestige of Holy Cross of Davao College.

Men's Football Team Shines Bright 

The Holy Cross of Davao College Men's Football Team fulfilled their promise of a strong comeback by clinching the gold medal. They triumphed over Soccsksargen’s Notre Dame University with a decisive 5-0 victory on June 21. The Blazers' stellar performance on the field was a testament to their hard work, strategic gameplay, and unyielding spirit, earning them the top spot and bringing home yet another gold for the Davao Region.

Region XI Unstoppable 

With these outstanding achievements, the Holy Cross of Davao College Blazers have proven their dominance in the CEAP Mindanao Games 2024. Their victories in women's volleyball, women's basketball, and men's football underscore the college's commitment to excellence in sports and their significant role in promoting athletic talent in Mindanao.

The Davao Region celebrates these remarkable triumphs, and the entire Holy Cross of Davao College community stands proud of their athletes' dedication and hard work. The Blazers' success in the CEAP Mindanao Games 2024 is a source of inspiration and a testament to the spirit of perseverance and teamwork. Congratulations to the champions!( Romeo Braceros Jr.)

2nd Oaminal chess tournament offers P355,000 cash prizes

 

Clarin, Misamis Occidental - On July 9–10, chess enthusiasts will gather at the AYA Hotel and Residences for the 2nd Gov. Henry Oaminal Open Chess Tournament, offering a substantial cash prize pool of at least P355,000.

Organized by the Asenso Misamis Occidental Fiderated Chess Association (AMOFCA) in partnership with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, the 2nd Congressional District Office, and local government units of Ozamis, this FIDE-rated rapid chess competition coincides with the 76th Anniversary of the City Charter and Nuestra Sra's Feast Dela Concepcion y del Triunfo de Migpangi.

The open champion stands to win P50,000, with P30,000, P20,000, P10,000, P5,000, and P3,000 awarded to second through sixth place. Seventh through tenth place finishers will receive P2,000 each, and P1,000 will go to each of the top 20 finishers.

Special awards will recognize the best elementary (under-13), best high school (under-17), and best player from Misamis Occidental. Categories for top junior (under 20), senior (60+), under-17 female, under-13 female, and open female players will also feature special prizes.

The ceremonial moves will involve Governor Henry Oaminal, Mayor Henry Oaminal, Jr., and Representative Sancho Fernando Oaminal, alongside Asia's first grandmaster and Hall of Famer Eugene Torre. For further details, contact NM/AGM Rey Urbiztondo at (0999-999-0374) or reycurbz@gmail.com.

Panaboan Christian Gian Karlo Arca wins Asian Youth tourney in Kazakhstan

 

Final Standings:

8.0 points---FM Christian Gian Karlo Arca (Philippines)

7.0 points--- Asman Bayantas (Kazakhstan), Nikita An Kalinin (Russia), FM Ernur Amangeldy (Kazakhstan)

6.5 points---Leonid Efimov (Russia), Alan Petukhov (Kazakhstan)

6.0 points---FM Daniyal Sapenov (Kazakhstan),  Kirill Otdelnov (Russia), Isaak  Parpiev (Russia), Do An Hoa (Vietnam)

On Thursday, June 20, 2024, Filipino teenage wonder Christian Gian Karlo Arca struck gold again, adding another significant victory to his expanding collection of victories. The Asian Youth Blitz Chess Championships 2024 - U16 was held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.

 With eight points from nine rounds, the remarkable 15-year-old FIDE Master from Panabo City, Davao del Norte finished alone in first place. Arca lost to Asman Bayantas of Kazakhstan in the fourth round after defeating Kirill Gusev of Russia, Kirill Tambovskii of Russia, and Goyal Daksh of India in the first three rounds, respectively.

En route to winning the coveted title, the incoming Grade 9 student of Dasmariñas Integrated High School won all of his remaining matches against FM Daniyal Sapenov of Kazakhstan in the ninth and final round, CM Dmitrii Suslov of Russia in the seventh round, CM Akbarali Abdukhakimov of Uzbekistan in the fifth round, and Truong Phu Pham of Vietnam in the sixth round.

 It was also his second major victory following his victory in a Grandmaster competition in Quang Ninh, Vietnam, last month, which helped him reach the second of the three standards needed to become an International Master (IM).

“It is always an honor for me to represent our country in the Asian Youth Blitz Chess Championships 2024 - U16 held in Almaty, Kazakhstan," said FM Arca.

 The Eastern Asia Juniors Chess Championship in Karawaci-Tangerang, Indonesia, from July 3 to 11, and the 8th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship in Penang, Malaysia, from July 12 to 21, are FM Arca's next scheduled competitions.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

Davaoeno Matt Lim Selected for Philippine U19 Training Camp Ahead of AFF U19 Boys Championship

 

Davao City native Matt Lim has been selected to join the training camp for the Philippine U19 national football team. The camp, set to run from June 10 to July 10, is part of the team’s preparation for the upcoming AFF U19 Boys Championship 2024, which will take place in Surabaya, Indonesia.

Lim, a standout player from Davao, is currently a member of the Crocs Football Team. In addition, he is a high school soccer varsity player in the United States, where he has honed his skills and gained significant experience on the field.

The month-long training camp will be a crucial period for the team to build cohesion and refine strategies. It will also provide the coaching staff an opportunity to assess and select the final roster for the championship. The AFF U19 Boys Championship is a significant event, bringing together the best young talent from across Southeast Asia, and the Philippine team is aiming to make a strong impact.

Lim’s selection is a testament to his hard work and talent. His participation in the camp is a proud moment for Davao City and the local football community. Known for his versatility and athleticism, Lim is expected to bring valuable skills to the national team.

The training camp will involve intense drills, tactical sessions, and friendly matches to ensure the team is well-prepared for the competition in Surabaya. Lim's experience playing varsity soccer in the U.S. is likely to be an asset, providing him with a different perspective and level of play that can benefit the team.

As the team gears up for the AFF U19 Boys Championship, supporters and fans from Davao and across the Philippines will be eagerly watching Matt Lim and his teammates. Their journey represents not only the pursuit of victory but also the growing strength and potential of Philippine football on the international stage.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)

2nd Oaminal chess tournament gets going on July 9-10

 

 

Clarin, Misamis Occidental - On July 9–10, here at the AYA Hotel and Residences, the nation's best chess players will put their skills to the test in the 2nd Gov. Henry Oaminal Open Chess Tournament.

 The winners of the FIDE-rated rapid chess competition, which is being held by the Asenso Misamis Occidental Fiderated Chess Association (AMOFCA) in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Misamis Occidental, the 2nd Congressional District Office, and local government units of Ozamis, will receive a minimum of P355,000 in cash prize.

Conducted in conjunction with the 76th Anniversary of the City Charter and Nuestra Sra's Feast Dela Concepcion y del Triunfo de Migpangi.

The open champion of the competition will receive P50,000, P30,000, P20,000, P10,000, P5,000, and P3,000 will be awarded to the second through sixth place finishers, and P2,000 will be given to the seventh through tenth place finishers. P1,000 will be awarded to each of the top 20 finishers.

Additionally, awards will be given to the best elementary (under-13), best high school (under-17), and best player from Misamis Occidental. Additionally, the top junior (20 below), top senior (60+), top under-17 female, top under-13 female, and top open female will get special category rewards.

 Governor Henry Oaminal, Mayor Henry Oaminal, Jr., and Representative Sancho Fernando Oaminal have all been invited to participate in the ceremonial moves, which will include Asia's first grandmaster and Hall of Famer Eugene Torre. Please get in touch with NM/AGM Rey Urbiztondo at (0999-999-0374) or by email at reycurbz@gmail.com for more information.