What began as a quiet observation on the sidelines has evolved into a promising journey for young chess player Ruel M. Pagatpatan of Guiuan, Eastern Samar.
Now a Grade 6 student-athlete, Ruel was introduced to chess at an early age, watching matches played by members of a local chess group near his mother’s food stall. This early exposure allowed him to grasp the fundamentals of the game.
By the time he entered Grade 3, he had begun actively playing and competing, marking the start of his development in the sport.
Through consistent observation and practice, Ruel steadily honed his understanding of chess rules and strategies. His mother shared that he is the only athlete in their family, making his accomplishments all the more notable.
His dedication has since opened doors to larger platforms. In 2025, Ruel represented the Philippines in the Asian Youth Chess Championship in Chiang Mai, Thailand, marking a significant milestone in his young career.
At the recent Eastern Visayas Regional Athletic Association (EVRAA) meet, Ruel delivered an outstanding performance, winning five gold medals and one silver, earning a total of ₱57,000 in incentives from the provincial government.
A four-time regional participant, he has also qualified twice for the Palarong Pambansa, where he previously secured a bronze medal. Despite his growing list of achievements, Ruel remains focused on reaching greater heights.
“Magtatalinguha kami nga makakuha hin gold medal ha Palarong Pambansa,” he said.
From learning the game by simply watching others to representing the country on the international stage, Ruel’s journey reflects discipline, perseverance, and the potential of grassroots talent when given the chance to grow. (TAC-JDM)
