YOUNG National Master Keith Adriane Ilar of El Salvador City, Misamis Oriental, has been on a winning streak — capturing commercial chess titles across Mindanao before heading to General Santos City for the 2025 Batang Pinoy National Finals.
Given the chance to represent Bukidnon — his mother’s hometown and where his father currently works — the fast-rising talent did not disappoint.
In the opening event of the medal-rich chess competition, Ilar dominated the boys’ under-15 standard division with eight wins and one draw in nine rounds to secure the gold medal.
He is expected to deliver more hardware for Bukidnon.
“There was no clear support from El Salvador City, and Bukidnon gave a better offer. His family originally hails from Don Carlos, Bukidnon,” a local chess coach told Gold Star Daily.
The Bukidnon chess coaching staff — Jay-ar Penados, Randolph Christopher Dalauta, Jeriel Manlimbana and Mario Cagulada — expressed gratitude to Board Member Bobby Dinlayan for his all-out backing of the team.
Dinlayan even traveled to GenSan to show support. His presence inspired the squad, contributing to Kassandra Day Tadeo of Maramag finishing fourth among 65 players in the girls’ under-16 category.
“Even back when he was a barangay captain, BM Dinlayan would accompany chess players on trips to Manila — that’s why our athletes are motivated,” Manlimbana told Gold Star Daily. “We hope Ilar, Tadeo, and the rest of our chess team win more medals because there are still many events left in Batang Pinoy chess this week.”
