Isabela: Woman Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna held Woman FIDE Master Francesca Largo to a draw after 31 moves of an English Opening to rule the Women's Chess Invitational Sunday at Alicia Community Center in Isabela. The 30-year-old Frayna completed the 13-round event with an impressive 11.5 points, securing 10 wins and three draws.
According to Philippines News Agency, WFM Shania Mae Mendoza took second place, having dismantled Francois Marie Magpily in 37 moves of a Four Knights Game to finish with nine points. Woman International Master Ruelle Canino claimed third place with eight points after a draw with Kate Nicole Ordizo in 25 moves of another English Opening.
Frayna's victory marked her fifth overall title and her second championship this year, having previously won the National Championship and Olympiad qualifier in Malolos, Bulacan in February. In that 15-round tournament, she amassed 11.5 points, reclaiming a title she previously won in 2013, 2016, and 2021.
Looking ahead, Frayna is set to lead the Philippine team in the World Chess Olympiad slated for September 15 to 27 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The women's team notably clinched the Group B gold medal in Budapest, Hungary, two years ago.
In the children's division, Khana Kathrine Ventolero from Zamboanga City won the girls' rapid category, while Krystelle Emerald Sanchez from Santiago City took home the girls' blitz title. John Randall Peralta and Allen Abor emerged victorious in the boys' rapid and blitz categories, respectively.
