by Kristel Satumbaga
Grandmaster John Paul Gomez remained undefeated after three rounds for a share of the lead with Mongolian FIDE Master Urtnasan Nasanjargal in the Eastern Asian Zonal 3.3 Chess Championships in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.
Gomez toppled teammate International Master Paulo Bersamina to hike his tally to 3 points with early victories against IM John Marvin Miciano and GM Bazar Khatanbaatar.
The 32-year-old Gomez, however, will be put to test when he faces fellow pacesetter Nasanjargal, who walloped compatriot Badrakh Galmandakh following back-to-back wins over Vietnamese FM Dang Hoang Son and GM Nguyen Duc Hoa.
In women’s side, Woman Grandmaster Janelle Frayna posted her third straight draw against Mongolian Erdenebar Margadgua for 1.5 points, 1.5 points behind solo leader FM Ochirkhuyag Ulziikhishigjargal also of Mongolia.