Arca aims for International Master title

Filipino chess prodigy Christian Gian Karlo Arca is set to compete in tournaments abroad to accomplish his bid to become the country's next International Master (IM).

The 14-year-old grade 8 student from Dasmariñas Integrated High School recently claimed the chess title of FIDE Master after finishing the boys under-18 division of the Mayor Darel Dexter Uy-National Age Group Chess Championships as a co-champion last April in Dipolog City.

Arca's chess rating jumped to 2172 after earning 94 points from that tournament in Dipolog City.

Arca also holds the title of national master and online Arena Grandmaster but aims to secure the three norms required to become an IM this year.

He is slated to compete in the 21st Asean+ Age Group Chess Championship in Bangkok, Thailand on June 17-27, 2023.

“I hope to do well in this event (Thailand) and gain some Elo rating points,” said Arca, who also topped the boys under-14 section of the Eastern Asian Youth Chess Championship in Bangkok, Thailand and the GM Balinas youth tournament last year.

“He is currently the youngest among the FIDE Masters in the Philippines,” said proud father Arman Arca, who supports the chess profession of his son all the way.

Arca, whose local and international chess campaigns are supported by Rep. Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr., mayor Jenny Barzaga and national coach FIDE Master Roel Abelgas, will also compete in the GMG Youth Chess Challenge under-15 division on May 20, 2023, at the Open Kitchen Foodhall of Rockwell Business Center, Sheridan Street, Mandaluyong City.