New NCFP Regional Coordinator
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Thu, 21 Nov 2024
Engr. Rey C. Urbiztondo, a veteran chess organizer and active player, has been appointed as the Regional Coordinator for the Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions, marking a new chapter for chess enthusiasts in these areas. With his extensive experience in chess and leadership roles, he is set to invigorate the local chess community with his strategic vision and commitment.
Urbiztondo is celebrated for his role in organizing prestigious national chess tournaments in Ozamiz and Misamis Occidental, often featuring top grandmasters like Eugene Torre. Additionally, his involvement in events such as the Surigao Open has cemented his reputation as a key figure in Philippine chess.
His chess career includes being an executive chess champion in Davao, and as a college team captain in Cebu, he competed alongside some of the country’s leading chess players. His success with the Far East Bank Chess Team in the InterBank Chess Tournaments during the 1990s further showcases his long-standing dedication to chess.
In his new coordinator role, Urbiztondo has set forth these strategic priorities:
1. **FIDE Rated Tournaments**: Organizing these events will allow local players to gain international recognition and work toward achieving FIDE titles.
2. **Inter-School Competitions**: Establishing a regional school tournament similar to UAAP or NCAA will nurture young talents and encourage student participation.
3. **LGU Team Tournaments**: Encouraging team competitions among cities and provinces will promote community involvement and local interest in chess.
4. **Chess Tourism Promotion**: Connecting chess events to tourism can enhance the region’s cultural appeal and draw both visitors and players.
5. **National and International Events**: Increasing the number of major chess events hosted in Mindanao can establish it as a key chess destination.
6. **Formation of Chess Associations**: Creating associations across cities and provinces will support a structured growth of chess from the grassroots level.
7. **Implementation of NCFP Projects**: Introducing national federation initiatives will integrate Mindanao's efforts with broader national goals.
8. **National Age Group Tournaments**: Hosting these events will foster the development of young players and sustain long-term engagement.
9. **Collaborations with LGUs and Businesses**: Working with local government units and private companies will help secure essential resources and support for chess activities.
10. **Grassroots Development Programs**: Focusing on grassroots development will make chess more accessible, uncovering new talent and ensuring the sport's continuous growth.
Under Urbiztondo’s leadership, the Northern Mindanao and Caraga Regions can look forward to an energized and flourishing chess community, with dynamic initiatives aimed at fostering talent and expanding the sport's reach.
Marlon Bernardino
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Marlon Bernardino.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
Eumir, Weljohn put pros on hold
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 25 Nov 2025Toronto Topples Cleveland, 110-99 for 8th Straight Win; Holds on to 2nd in the East
By Teodoro Medina Reynoso, Tue, 25 Nov 2025PPP Seniors & PWD Fun Run 2025 on Dec. 13 in Talomo
By Lito delos Reyes, Tue, 25 Nov 2025MANNY PACQUIAO PROMOTIONS ANNOUNCES A FULL SELLOUT AND BROADCAST DETAILS AHEAD OF U.S. DEBUT EVENT THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, AT PECHANGA RESORT CASINO IN TEMECULA, CALIF.
Tue, 25 Nov 2025Tomorrow Night's CB Promotions Card at The Cure Insurance Arena in Trenton is Postponed
Tue, 25 Nov 2025PHL bids to host WB Congress
By Joaquin Henson, Tue, 25 Nov 2025Joel "Lethal" Lewis talks boxing evolution and upcoming Thunderdome 52 fight this Friday in Perth
Tue, 25 Nov 2025Granite Chin Promotions signs Milton pro boxer Jenn Perella
Tue, 25 Nov 2025Mabuhay at Salamat: ‘The Thirty’ Filipino Boxers Who Became Giants
By Emmanuel Rivera, RRT, Mon, 24 Nov 2025World-ranked Lightweight Dynamo Justin Pauldo Collides with Hard-punching Nike Theran
Mon, 24 Nov 2025Fastest Pinay in IronMan 70.3 World comes from Lanao del Norte
By Kim delos Reyes-Teves, Mon, 24 Nov 2025Two-time middleweight world champion Gennadiy Golovkin confirmed as new President of World Boxing at Congress 2025 in Rome
Mon, 24 Nov 2025Panama City will host the World Boxing Ordinary Congress in 2026
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Mon, 24 Nov 2025Tadlas, Busayong rule 42K in 3rd SDSPPO Run for a Cause
By Lito delos Reyes, Mon, 24 Nov 2025"The Mexican Monster" Terrorizes the 175: Benavidez Demolishes Yarde to Win WBC Light Heavyweight Title
By Dong Secuya, Sun, 23 Nov 2025