Beirut - The First Philippine Ambassador’s Invitational Chess Open Tournament was held on 17 September 2023 at the Arab Open University (AOU). The tournament was organized by the Lebanese Chess Federation in partnership with Shamieh Chess Academy with the generous support of the AOU administration.

Photo: Ambassador Raymond Balatbat awarded certificates, cash prizes, and trophies to the winners

In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador H.E. Raymond R. Balatbat highlighted that sponsoring such a sporting event is part of the celebration of the 77th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations of the Philippines and the Lebanese Republic. Ambassador Balatbat shared the importance of chess among Filipinos as the Philippines has produced Asia’s first Grandmaster and current World No. 8, Wesley So.

A total of 106 top-rated players from all over Lebanon participated in the FIDE-rated tournament where they received certificates of participation while the top three winners from each category were awarded with trophies and cash prizes. After the 9-round tournament, seven (7) year old Skye Attieh and Ahmad Najjar won in their respective categories.

Photo: Top-rated players from the Lebanese Chess Federation during the tournament. Ambassador Raymond R. Balatbat (bottom right) encouraged the players before the tournament.

On 3 September 2023, the Embassy also held the Ambassador’s Cup for Lebanese children where 85 Lebanese children participated. The Philippine Embassy is dedicated to its commitment in hosting wider and more inclusive chess tournaments in the future.

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