by Marlon Bernardino
Manila Indios Bravos seeks an Northern Conference finals berth on Saturday, March 27, 2021 when it faces elimination top notcher Laguna Heroes in the All Filipino Professional Chess Association of the Philippines on online tournament at chess.com.

Led by 8-times Illinois, USA chess champion International Master (IM) Angelo Abundo Young, the Manila Indios Bravos try to beat tournament favorite Laguna Heroes in their 7 p.m. match-up.
“I know the character of our group, and we are still very much committed to what our purpose is.” said Young, who finished eighth overall in the +50 division of the 2019 World Seniors Chess Championships in Bucharest, Romania.
“We have a purpose of why we’re here. We’re competing for a title." he added.

Joining Young in the Manila Indios Bravos squad are GM Julio Catalino Sadorra, IMs Marvin Miciano and Cris Ramayrat, FM Deniel Causo, US NM Ryan Dungca, along with WCM Mira Mirano, CM Genghis Imperial, AGM Glenn Lemen, Erla Rhysa Elauria and Mr. Val Mendoza with team owner Joey Elauria.

Laguna Heroes, on the other hand is composed of 2-time Asian Junior Champion GM Rogelio "Banjo" Barcenilla Jr., FMs Austin Jacob Literatus, WNM Christy Lamiel Bernales, FM Jose Efren Bagamasbad, GM John Paul Gomez, Vince Angelo Medina, Kimuel Aaron Lorenzo, CM Arjie Bayangat, AGM Dr. Alfredo "Fred" Paez, engr. Benjamin Dy, engr. Jonathan Mamaril and Mr. David Nithyananthan.

Last Wednesday, March 24, 2021, Manila Indios Bravos defeated Rizal Batch Towers to arrange a semi-final showdown with Laguna Heroes, who brought down Antipolo Cobras.-Marlon Bernardino-
Photo shows 8-times Illinois, USA chess champion International Master (IM) Angelo Abundo Young