Yolanda survivor Mario Rebano wins Philadelphia chess tourney

NEW YORK — Philippine National Master Mario Rebano triumphed in the five-day World Open Chess U 2000 Tournament 2024 in Philadelphia, defeating 226 players from around the world, including his Armenian contender in the final match.

Rebano, a native of Barangay Sagkahan, Tacloban, Leyte, and a survivor of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, faced significant financial challenges on his journey to the world title. Without external financial support, he used his own money for training, registration, transportation, and lodging, even pawning jewelry to cover expenses.

"Instead of focusing solely on my matches, I also had to worry about paying for registration, lodging, and transportation, which was very stressful," Rebano shared in an interview with GMA Integrated News.

Despite these hardships, Rebano's perseverance paid off, earning him the World Open U 2000 title and a $12,000 prize (over P700,000). 

"This is my biggest world open title. It's not easy to get this title. You have to dream, study, and work hard to achieve it. Preparation and everything," he said.

Rebano highlighted the "lack of support" for talented players in the Philippines, emphasizing that many skilled individuals could shine if given proper backing. 

"There are many talented players in our country, but the problem is the lack of support. If they receive support, their true talents will shine. All Filipinos are skilled; the real problem is the lack of support," he stressed.

Now residing in New York, Rebano plans to use his prize money for training for his next competition in Las Vegas. He also expressed his desire to help young Filipino chess players by sending training books, hoping to foster their development despite the lack of government support.

Rebano dedicated his victory to his fellow Filipinos, especially those from Leyte and other calamity survivors. 

"I offer this victory to my fellow Filipinos, especially the people of Tacloban and all victims of calamities like me," he said. —KBK, GMA Integrated News