PSC comes to the rescue of Filipino chessers stranded due to US-Israel war on Iran

MANILA, Philippines – The National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) expressed its “deepest and sincerest gratitude” to the Philippine Sports Commission under chairman Patrick Gregorio for ensuring the safe return of members of the Philippine team that recently competed in Moscow, Russia.

The Philippine team was composed of International Masters Mark Jay Bacojo, who won the bronze medal in the Russian Chess Crown Standard A tournament and clinched his first Grandmaster norm, IM Michael Concio Jr., FM Alekhine Nouri, NM Vince Angelo Medina and NM Joemel Narzabal.

The Filipinos were scheduled to fly home to Manila last Saturday but faced great danger and uncertainty amid the hostilities in the Middle East.

Their scheduled return flight to Manila was disrupted due to the sudden closure of airspace in the United Arab Emirates brought about by the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. Their connecting flight via Abu Dhabi to Manila was cancelled, leaving them stranded at Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow.

The PSC immediately stepped in and did not waste time making sure that Filipino athletes and officials will get home safely, easing the stress on the delegation and their families back home and averting what could have been a worse situation.

Gregorio said the PSC directly and effectively handled the situation by securing alternative travel arrangements for the members of the national team, who were scheduled to take their return flight home Tuesday.

The NCFP thanked the PSC for its “swift action and unwavering support ensuring the safe return” of the Philippine delegation from Moscow.

“We extend our profound appreciation to PSC Chairman Hon. John Patrick C. Gregorio for his leadership and prompt attention to the matter. Our heartfelt thanks as well to Commissioner-in-Charge Hon. Edward L. Hayco for closely monitoring the situation and ensuring that solutions were acted upon without delay, together with Ma’am Anna Faye Lee, Executive Assistant, for her invaluable assistance in facilitating the reroute arrangements and closely coordinating the necessary travel adjustments.

“We are equally grateful to Atty. Guillermo B. Iroy, Executive Director, whose coordination and behind-the-scenes efforts greatly facilitated the rerouting arrangements,” the NCFP wrote.

“Because of their decisive action and genuine concern for our athletes, what could have been a prolonged and distressing situation was resolved with efficiency and care.”

The NCFP cited the government sports agency for proving that support to members of the national team goes beyond the preparations and the actual participation in tournaments – local and international.

“Moments like this remind us that beyond competition and medals, what truly matters is the safety and welfare of our athletes. The PSC once again demonstrated that Filipino athletes are never alone — that their government stands firmly behind them, especially in times of crisis

“On behalf of the NCFP and the entire Philippine Chess community, we thank the Philippine Sports Commission and everyone who extended help, support, and reassurance during a very stressful time,” the NCFP added.

“Maraming salamat po.” (Pool story)