Cebu City, Philippines – The Toledo Xignex Trojans continued their impressive performance at the PCAP All-Filipino Conference, recording two resounding wins on Thursday, March 26.
Leading the Trojans’ outstanding play was recently signed Grandmaster (GM) Mark Paragua, who showcased an impeccable performance in their decisive 17-4 victory over the Iloilo Kisela Knights. The Trojans continued their stellar form by defeating the Camarines Soaring Eagles 17.5-3.5 in their subsequent game later that same day.
Thanks to these consecutive victories, coupled with their initial win, the Trojans currently lead the South Division rankings with a perfect 3-0 (win-loss) record and have amassed a total of 54.5 points.
The Bacolod Blitzers, who remain undefeated at 3-0, follow closely with 45 points, whereas Camarines holds the third spot with a record of 2-1.
During their match against Iloilo, Grandmaster Paragua outperformed Erol Parando at Board 1, securing victories in both the blitz and rapid rounds. Completing flawless performances alongside Paragua were International Masters Joel Banawa and Joel Pimentel, who defeated Hubert Canto and Horizon Villanueva respectively without dropping a single game.
In the match against Camarines, FIDE Master (FM) Ellan Asuela engaged in a tightly fought battle with Chin Lim on Board 1. The encounter concluded as a tie in both the blitz and rapid rounds.
Nevertheless, the remaining members of the Trojans secured vital victories. WFM Cherry Ann Mejia, along with IMs Barlo Nadera and Kim Steven Yap, dominated their respective games against Virginie Ruaya and ex-Trojan Angelo Young. Additionally, IM Yap triumphed over both Coellier Graspela and Marco Balane in individual matchups, clinching an overwhelming victory for Toledo.
At the same time, in the North Division, the AQ Prime Cavite Spartans and the previous PCAP champions, San Juan Predators, lead at the top with matching undefeated records of 3-0.