By Alex P. Vidal

National Master Mario Lawsin Rebano defeated top-seeded Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) Master Igor Shneider in the final round of the 17th Chess-in-the-Park Rapid Open in New York City’s Central Park over the weekend.

“Finally, I nailed it,” said the 52-year-old survivor of Super Typhoon Yolanda. “Sana tuloy-tuloy na ito (I hope this victory will continue).”

Rebano, a former warehouse manager in the Philippines, dedicated the win to Dr. Gil Asoy.

“I dedicate this victory to my adviser,” the champion said. “[He] supported me morally, even when I was campaigning in the Philippines.”

Rebano is currently based in New Jersey./APV, WDJ