Photo Release

CONSULATE GENERAL ATTENDS OPENING OF 5TH ANNUAL INTERCONTINENTAL ONLINE CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP FOR PRISONERS

Consul Melvin Almonguera, together with Assistance-to-Nationals Officer Atty. Mark Arinquin, joined Chicago Consular Corps (CCC) representatives during the kick-off ceremonies of the 5th Annual Intercontinental Online Chess Championship for Prisoners held on 14 October 2025 at the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC) in Chicago. Dr. Jane Gubser, Executive Director of the facility, opened the event together with Fédération Internationale des Échecs (FIDE) officials.

This year, 135 inmate teams from 57 countries, including the Philippines, participated in the event. After three (03) days of competition, India emerged as the champion in the Male Category, while El Salvador claimed first place in the Female Category. In the Youth Category, Iran secured the top spot.

In his congratulatory message to the winners, FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich stressed, “The true winners of this event were not determined by the final round result or the scoresheet. In fact, the true victory lies in the personal transformation that chess has unlocked, and I hope you will see it through”. Jointly organized by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office and FIDE - the International Chess Federation based in Switzerland - this annual online competition is part of the Chess for Freedom initiative. The program offers inmates around the world a unique opportunity for education, social connection, and personal growth through chess. (Group Photo courtesy of Cook County Sheriff’s Office). END