By el Amigo
MANILA — The Philippines’ men’s and women’s chess teams delivered strong responses after their Round 5 defeats, sweeping past their respective opponents in the sixth round of the 46th World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Both squads won, 3.5-0.5, with the Open team defeating Yemen and the women’s side beating Angola.
For the men, IM Pau Bersamina, IM Jem Garcia and GM Darwin Laylo collected full points, while GM Daniel Quizon held IM Al Zendani Zendan to a draw.
Sebastian, one of the Philippines’ standout rookies, led the women’s victory with a Board 1 triumph over WFM Jemima Paulo. WGM Janelle Mae Frayna and WFM Shania Mae Mendoza added wins, while WIM Ruelle Canino drew.
The victories gave both teams eight match points. The men moved to a tie for 29th, while the women climbed to joint 28th.
With five rounds remaining, the Top 10 finish target is still very much alive.
ia/xf
