International Master (IM) elect Christian Gian Karlo Tade-Arca is set to represent the Philippines in the upcoming 9th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championships, slated for July 20 to 30, 2025, in Zhuhai, China.
The 16-year-old standout from Mindanao expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the prestigious continental tournament.
“I would like to thank the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) headed by Chairman/President Prospero Pichay Jr., CEO/Executive Director GM Jayson Gonzales, and the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), through Chairman Patrick Gregorio and Commissioner Ed Hayco, for supporting me in this tournament,” said Arca. “I’m hoping to earn some ELO rating points.”
A Grade 11 student, Arca has been making waves in the national chess scene with a string of strong performances. Most recently, he finished runner-up in the Asenso Ozamiz Open Chess Tournament (FIDE Rated Rapid, High School Category), held on July 12 and 13 in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental.
Arca scored 8.5 points in nine rounds, tying for first with FIDE Master Alekhine Nouri of Escalante City, Negros Occidental. However, Nouri clinched the title via superior tiebreaks.
Earlier this year, Arca also secured second place in the 2025 Battle of Philippine Champions, also hosted in Ozamiz City. The event was topped by Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr., who finished with 8 points. Arca followed closely with 7 points, while International Master Michael Concio Jr., Grandmaster Daniel Quizon, and International Master Rolando Nolte each tallied 6 points.
