Renowned international chess arbiter Gene Poliarco passed away at the age of 77 last Sunday.
Poliarco suffered a heart attack on his way to a hospital Dagupan, while undergoing first aid inside an ambulance in Alaminos, Pangasinan.
The National Chess Federation of the Philippines, led by its president Prospero “Butch” Pichay, has offered its condolences to Poliarco, who served the NCFP for many years.
Poliarco has given many lectures on officiating the game of chess and supervised numerous international and national tournaments for many years.
“I got this sad news from his son Louie. Leaving his seven bereaved siblings and wife. He was 77 years old,” said NCFP official Jayson Gonzales in a message.
Chess players, led by Grandmaster Janelle Frayna, have offered their tributes to Poliarco and his family.
“Your memories will be with us always as a legend! In one way or another, he helped establish and direct the shape and form of Philippine Chess! May our Good Lord Take Care of you! Rest in Peace, Sir Gene,” said Frayna in her Viber statement.
“Nabanggit ko na po sa aking facebook post na kung may GMs tayo sa paglalaro, si Sir Gene ang maituturing nating Super GM naman sa arbitration. Paalam sir, Gene. I first met him when I was 13. I believe almost all the age-groupers ay nakilala at nakasalamuha si Sir Gene Poliarco. Tunay na nakakalungkot at nakakabiglang balita,” added Frayna.
