By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
John Marvin Miciano in file photo.John Marvin Miciano became the country's newest International Master after capturing the gold medal in the Under-18 standard division of the Asian Youth Chess Championship in Changmai, Thailand last Monday.
His victory secured him a ticket to the World Youth Chess Championships slated in October in Halkidiki, Greece.
The 17-year-old Miciano finished the nine-round tournament with 7.5 points highlighted by his 44-move victory over GM H. Thilakartne of Sri Lanka.
He was unbeaten in the tournament, clinching six victories and drawing three matches.
With his recent feat, Miciano became the 17th active IM in the country according to the World Chess Federation list.
His victory in the said Asian Youth event also secured him a ticket to the World Youth Chess Championships slated in October in Halkidiki, Greece.
Daniel Quizon, a 14-year-old woodpusher from Cavite, also made his presence felt and settled for the silver medal behind Miciano, while Jerish John Velarde took home the bronze medal in the Under-12 Rapid event.