FIDE Master (FM) Nelson Villanueva of the Philippines topped the rapid event of the Mesamall Chinese New Year Open chess tournament last February 24, 2018 was held in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia.

The Carlota City, Negros Occidental native Villanueva collected 6.5 points on six wins and one draw to claim the top honors in the seven-round event.
"Congratulation Fide Master Nelson Villanueva! You made the country proud," said Philippine Executive Chess Association (PECA) founding president Atty. Cliburn Anthony A. Orbe, Treasurer of the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) headed by Chairman/President Rep. Prospero "Butch" Pichay Jr. and Secretary-General Rep. Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino Jr.

The former Rizal Technological University (RTU) Mandaluyong City standout Villanueva scored victories over Vijay Khanna Kavinash of Malaysia in the first round, Vijay Khanna Giridarkhann of Malaysia in the second round, Noor Azman Muhd Afdal of Malaysia in the third round, Sheng Yip Chan of Malaysia in the fourth round, Yansen Kawatu of Indonesia in the fifth round and Evan Timothy Capel of Malaysia in the sixth round.
Villanueva wrapped up his campaign with a draw with Abdullah Che Hassan of Malaysia in the final round.
Another Filipino entry National Master Stewart Manaog finished in a tie for eight place with 5.0 points.-Marlon Bernardino-

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