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:
BOXING LEGEND: JIMMY CARRUTHERS
By Ray Dunbar, Fri, 19 Jun 2026WEIGHTS FROM LONG BEACH H2O SYLVE vs. JOJO DIAZ
Fri, 19 Jun 2026Collazo vs. Valdez Final Press Conference Quotes
Fri, 19 Jun 2026Alex Eala beats World No.2 Elena Rybakina
By Marlon Bernardino, Fri, 19 Jun 2026Undefeated Cuban Middleweight Pedro Veitia Scores Electrifying Stoppage of Previously Unbeaten Taiwo Afolabi
Fri, 19 Jun 2026Riyadh Season boxing events will stream free starting in November
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Fri, 19 Jun 2026Heavyweight Contender Gustavo "The Cuban Assassin" Trujillo Returns June 28 in Main Event of "Fist of Fury 11"
Fri, 19 Jun 2026DC Eagles routs Perfect, 5-1 in R5
By Lito delos Reyes, Fri, 19 Jun 2026PCCI Las Piñas Leaders to Visit Lipa for the June 20 JCI Rapid Chess Tournament
Fri, 19 Jun 2026Engr. Allan Anthony Alvarez eyes five squads in JCI Senate Lipa 3X3 Open Rapid Chess Tournament on June 20
By Marlon Bernardino, Fri, 19 Jun 2026PACHECO CLASHES WITH ALEEM ON STACKED LA CARD
Thu, 18 Jun 2026Rising Mexican Contender Neider Valdez Steps in to Face Pound-for-Pound Puerto Rican Champion Oscar “El Pupilo” Collazo in WBA, WBO and Ring Magazine Minimumweight World Championship Fight
Thu, 18 Jun 2026Sumabong to defend WBO title against undefeated Taiwanese on July 11 in Bohol
By Lito delos Reyes, Wed, 17 Jun 2026Jordan Orozco Remains Perfect with Dominant Third-Round TKO of Fernando Diaz on MVP/Boxlab Card in Orlando
Wed, 17 Jun 2026Floyd Mayweather Jr could face charges of fraud in Las Vegas
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Wed, 17 Jun 2026