John Laurence Donguines wins the 8th GMG Chess 2000 & below Tournament

GMG CHESS TOURNAMENTS

Coach Gerald Ferriol

8/10/20253 min read

From the very start, the top seed John showcased exceptional strategic acumen and deep concentration, setting the tone with decisive victories in all the rounds.

In round 5 he faced his rival John Lance Valencia,where his calculated risks paid off, securing the essential one point in a crucial game. He also defeated strong opponents namely Jeffrey Balita, Roy Rojo, Vincent Book, Alfredo Eriful and Roberto Semillano.

The 8th GMG Chess U2000 Below Tournament 2025 on August 10, 2025 at Robinson San Pedro, Laguna, witnessed a remarkable performance by John Laurence Donguines, who clinched victory with a flawless 7/7 score. This tournament was particularly challenging, drawing top-tier players from around the Metro Manila, Cavite and Laguna who are eager to claim the title.

John Laurence was playing with Black pieces and pondering his plan in the game.

The 2nd placer, Jorge Delgado collected 6/7 points and pocketed P2,000 and medal.

The 3rd placer, Joel Obogne collected 5/7 points with superior tiebreak of 28 and pocketed P1,000 and medal.

https://s3.chess-results.com/tnrWZ.aspx?lan=1&art=1&fed=PHI&turdet=NO&tno=1233246&SNode=S0

The atmosphere was fully-airconed inside the Robinson mall eagerly watching each move as strategies unfolded on the board. This event not only highlighted the competitive spirit of chess but also fostered a sense of community among players and fans alike. Many thanks to Mam Danielle Buenavista, Robinson's staffs and management for providing us a great venue for this tournament. And expecting more players to join in our subsequent tournaments.

The result of round seven and final standing

Congrats to all the winners in the 8th GMG Chess 2000 Below Chess Tournament

Champion: John Laurence Donguines - ₱4,000 + Trophy + e-certificate
2nd place: Jorge Delgado - P2,000 + medal + e-certificate
3rd place: Joel Obogne - P1,000 + medal + e-certificate
4th place: Larry Defensor - P700 + medal + e-certificate
5th place: Neil Kaiden Amatorio - P500 + medal + e-certificate
6th place: Jose Puyo - P500 + medal + e-certificate
7th place: Lightus Daleon - P500 + medal + e-certificate
Top Senior: Roberto Semillano - P500 + medal + e-certificate
Top College: John Lance Valencia - P500 + medal + e-certificate
Top High School: Rotshen Victor Hernando - P500 + medal + e-certificate
Top Lady: Jane Eunice Detablan - P500 + medal + e-certificate

Finishing the tournament, John Laurence not only claimed the title but also cemented his status as a veteran player in the Philippines Chess. His outstanding achievement is a beacon of inspiration for fellow players and chess enthusiasts.

#JohnLaurenceDonguines #JorgeDelgado #JoelObogne #LarryDefensor #NeilKaidenAmatorio #JosePuyo #LightusDaleon #RobertoSemillano #JohnLanceValencia #RotshenVictorHernando #JaneEuniceDetablan

Chess has always been more than just a game to us; it is a journey of self-discovery, a test of character, and a source of endless fascination and joy.

Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.

by Coach Gerald Ferriol