Garcia, Frayna wins chess titles, clinch SEAG seats

International Master Jan Immanuel Garcia and Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna formally claimed their respective men’s and women’s titles at end of the national chess team selection for the Southeast Asian Games.

The 27-year-old Garcia finished with four points after beating GM Darwin Laylo in 51 moves of their rapid tournament duel at the Philippine Academy for Chess Excellence in Quezon City.

Garcia used the English Opening in earning the gold medal.

Frayna collected 3.5  points after five rounds in her five-round clash with IM Antoinette San Diego in the women’s side.

This time, Frayna employed the Sicilian Defense in repulsing San Diego in 34 moves.