IF there is one thing one must know about chess Grandmaster (GM) Rogelio “Banjo” Barcenilla, he is extremely loyal.
During his first three seasons with the Laguna Heroes, he resisted offers to transfer to another squad in the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP)—even as some teammates changed team colors, even if his team went from the league’s first champion and perennial title challenger to a struggling squad, he was there.
The last Hero standing.
“No one can say that I did not give my all every time I competed,” he underscored.
Despite living in Arizona, USA, hence the 15-hour time difference, and save for the opening day match that started really late, he was always there. Win. Lose. Draw.
When Laguna went on a sabbatical, that was it. Now, he could move.
And he joined the San Juan Predators, a team that could match his competitive nature and ambition.
“Kahit online lang ang means for me to compete, it is a change of scenery kung tawagin,” he said.
San Juan has been rebuilding since its days as a three-time PCAP champion. The Pasig King Pirates have supplanted them as the dominant power and won four titles. The Predators would love to return to the top of the table.
The recent addition of Iloilo Kisela Knights stalwart Karl Viktor Ochoa on Board Two makes for a tough 1-2 combination with Barcenilla now on Board 1.
The former Board One players included GM Oliver Barbosa, Rolando Nolte and Arden Reyes. Now, Barcenilla is on top of the order.
With holdovers Woman International Master (IM) Jodi Fronda, IM Ricky de Guzman, Reyes brothers Arden and Archie, Narciso Gumila, Arena GM Gavin Ong and Randy Segarra, it’s a retooled squad. Two additions that make the top two boards highly competitive and a chance to grab a point or two with every match.
“Banjo brings a steadying presence while Karl is a giant killer,” noted San Juan team owner Michael Angelo Chua. “Although we tempered expectations this season, we still have a good shot at competing.”
With Barcenilla in the fold, they have a vocal leader. One who not only talks, but will really prepare before matches in terms of tactics, team meetings, and the discipline to get the right amount of rest before wading into the fray.
“I take each and every game seriously. Hindi ‘yung show up lang. Hindi lang ako, team ito,” he said.
San Juan opened its Season 4 All-Filipino Cup account last Saturday, March 23, with a 15-6 triumph over Olongapo despite Barcenilla not playing due to the late game start. Ochoa played the top board with Ong taking on the second board.
It’s a good confidence booster because this Wednesday, they take on Pasig.
“Magkakasubukan na agad,” chuckled Barcenilla who will take on GM Mark Paragua in what will surely be an exciting battle. In previous seasons, it was the addition of Paragua [aside from GM Barbosa jumping ship] that gave Pasig the weapons it needed to claim the top dog and title.
Perhaps now, lightning will strike twice.
Title preview?
“Ha. Hindi naman. Pasig, title favorites ‘yan. Kami? Laban lang. And good feeling iyan to know lahat ng teammates mo have the mindset and support to compete in PCAP,” Barcenilla concluded.
That last Hero standing? Well, he is now a Predator. He thinks it fits his competitive nature quite well.