Alijis Chess Team Secures Top 2 Finish in MassKaraLympics

Abanco wins 18&U girls

Brgy. Alijis proudly celebrates its remarkable success in two major chess events held during the 2025 MassKara Festival, marking another milestone for the barangay’s thriving chess community and youth sports development.

In the 3rd Congressman Albee Benitez Bacolod MassKara Inter-Barangay, Government, and Private Agencies Team Competition, Brgy. Alijis secured 2nd place overall among 28 participating teams. With an impressive record of five wins, one draw, and only one loss, the team tallied 11 match points and 17.5 game points, finishing just behind the eventual champion, Brgy. Bata.

The Brgy. Alijis Chess Team was composed of seasoned and promising players: PCMS Ernie Abanco — Gold Medalist at the recently concluded World Police and Fire Games held in Alabama, USA — together with Einre Mar Abanco, Eric Abanco, Joseph Navarra, and Ellaine Summer Abanco. Their teamwork and dedication exemplified both skill and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Meanwhile, in the 1st Mayor Greg Gasataya MassKara Chess Tournament (18 & Under Girls), Brgy. Alijis was proudly represented by Ellaine Summer Abanco, who emerged as Champion out of 49 participants, further cementing her status as one of Bacolod’s rising chess stars.

These achievements were made possible through the steadfast support of Hon. Deogracias “Boy” De La Vega, Barangay Captain of Alijis, whose leadership and commitment to youth development continue to foster excellence in sports and community engagement.

“We’re incredibly proud of our players,” said Hon. De La Vega. “Their discipline, teamwork, and strategic brilliance reflect the values we uphold in Brgy. Alijis. Chess teaches focus and resilience—qualities that empower our youth both on and off the board.”

The Brgy. Alijis Chess Team’s outstanding performance adds to the vibrant spirit of the MassKara Festival, reinforcing the barangay’s reputation as a hub of talent, dedication, and community pride.*