GAB approves first ever pro chess league in the Philippines

The Games and Amusements Board (GAB) has approved the first ever professional chess league in the country.

In a press conference on Thursday, GAB chair Abraham Mitra introduced the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP).

"We are very happy. Despite the pandemic, the GAB is growing," Mitra said.

PCAP is the third league to be granted professional status during the country's quarantine period, following Chooks-to-Go Pilipinas 3x3 and the National Basketball League (NBL), which also organizes the Women's NBL. 

In an update posted on the Asian Chess Federation's website, PCAP founding commissioner Atty. Paul Elauria said being pro is the start of a new era for Philippine chess.

"We want to elevate the status of our chess players and make them level with other professional athletes," he said.

More than 10 teams from all over the country have already confirmed their participation in the league. —MGP, GMA News