THE Philippine bridge squad showcased its competitive edge at the 8th Southeast Asia Bridge Federation (SEABF) Championships, held alongside the 41st ASEAN Bridge Club Championship at the City Garden Hotel in Makati City, by pulling strong finishes in multiple divisions.
Team Lucky Duck impressed in the Seniors division, securing a second-place finish, while the PSC-SOO team also claimed second place in the highly competitive Swiss event.
Meanwhile, the dynamic duo of Albert Quiogue and Jimmy Soo finished fifth in the Open competition, highlighting the depth of talent in the country’s national bridge contingent.
Hosted by the Philippine Tournament Bridge Association (PTBA), the tournament attracted 127 participants from nine countries, including heavyweights such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China.
The event not only tested participants’ strategic skills but also underscored the mental rigor required in bridge—a game that combines mathematics, memory, and analytical thinking. Experts note that bridge enhances concentration, problem-solving abilities, and cognitive agility, making it as much a sport for the mind as it is a competitive pastime.
“The competition this year was fierce, and our players demonstrated remarkable focus and teamwork,” said a PTBA official. “Their performances reflect the growing strength of the Philippines in regional bridge competitions and the dedication of our athletes to excellence.”
The week-long event concluded with a festive dinner and awards ceremony attended by Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio, who commended the participants for their outstanding performances. The ceremony also featured the symbolic handover of hosting duties to Malaysia, set to host the next edition.
