Canino and Frayna Share Lead in Philippine Women's Chess Championship
In an exciting development at the Philippine National Women's Chess Championship, Ruelle Canino and Janelle Mae Frayna have emerged as joint leaders after ten intense rounds of competition. The tournament, held in Malolos, Bulacan, on Sunday, February 8, 2026, showcased remarkable skill and determination from the country's top female chess players.
Canino's Impressive Comeback Victory
Ruelle Canino, an 18-year-old talent hailing from Cagayan de Oro City, secured a crucial victory over Kate Ordizo in a marathon 67-move Queen's Pawn duel. This win propelled her to a total of 7.5 points, matching the score of Janelle Mae Frayna. Canino's journey to the top has been particularly inspiring, as she rebounded strongly from an early setback. After a first-round draw and a second-round defeat, she demonstrated resilience by scoring an impressive seven points in the subsequent eight rounds, highlighting her growth and strategic prowess in the game.
Frayna's Consistent Performance
Janelle Mae Frayna maintained her position at the top of the leaderboard by settling for a draw with Allaney Jia Doroy. Her consistent play throughout the tournament has earned her 7.5 points, keeping her in contention for the championship title. The 16-player event has been fiercely competitive, with each round bringing new challenges and opportunities for the participants.
Other Notable Standings
In other matches, Jan Jodilyn Fronda claimed solo third place with seven points after defeating Vic Derotes in a 60-move Pirc Defense. Meanwhile, Bernadette Galas secured fourth position with 6.5 points, following a hard-fought draw with Maria Lavandero after 76 moves of a Sicilian Defense. These results underscore the depth of talent in Philippine women's chess, with players showcasing a variety of opening strategies and endgame techniques.
Stakes for the Top Finishers
The tournament holds significant importance beyond the national title, as the top three winners will earn the honor of representing the Philippines at the World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, scheduled for September 2026. This opportunity adds an extra layer of motivation for the competitors, who are vying not only for domestic glory but also for a chance to compete on the global stage.
As the championship progresses, fans and enthusiasts are eagerly watching to see who will ultimately secure the coveted spots for the international event. The remaining rounds promise to deliver more thrilling chess action, with each move potentially shaping the future of these talented athletes.
