Sports & Youth Development

Checkmate, Talisay: City Unveils New Chess Master Center at the Public Plaza

Mayor Weng Lizares, Former Mayor Neil Lizares, city leaders, and chess club officers during the Chess Master Center inauguration

Mayor Atty. Weng Lizares led the official blessing and inauguration of the City of Talisay Chess Master Center, marking a major milestone for local sports and youth development.

Located at the Talisay Public Plaza (adjacent to the Visitor’s Information Center), the strategic facility was blessed during a ceremony officiated by Rev. Fr. Roland P. Cepe, OAR. Joined by Talisay City Chess Club President Ely Jimenez, local officials, and local players, the event established an inspiring space for competitive training and strategic thinking.

Former Mayor Neil Lizares also attended the ceremony to extend his congratulations to the organization, celebrating the creation of a dedicated venue where players of all ages can gather, train, and hone their skills.

Local players and enthusiasts engaging in a game of chess at the new center

The inauguration was highlighted by the presence of acclaimed chess champion Recarte Tiauson, whose recent competitive achievements include:

  • Champion: Tanjay FIDE Rated Chess Tournament – Tanjay City, Negros Oriental (July 2026)
  • Champion (FIDE Rated Open): Mayor Chubasco Batchuk Cardenas Canlaon City Chess Tournament (July 2026)
  • 3rd Place (Blitz Category): Asian Amateur Chess Championship in Hong Kong (September 2025)
  • 4th Place (Rapid Category): Asian Amateur Chess Championship in Hong Kong (September 2025)

More than just a facility equipped with tables and chessboards, the Talisay Chess Master Center represents an investment in youth potential, discipline, and mental agility under the Gwapa nga Panghimanwa agenda.

With the launch of the Chess Master Center, Talisay City has officially made its move—providing local enthusiasts a platform to progress from their first checkmate to international competition.