Pinoy chess champion Sander Severino passes away at 40

Sander Severino, a source of national pride and a celebrated figure in Philippine chess industry, passed away on Saturday. 

He was 40. 

The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) confirmed Severino's death as the country mourns one of its most decorated chess players. 

Severino, who was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at 8 years old, made his name in the global scene after earning a Fide Master title back in 2015. 

Severino was also a perennial title holder in regional events after dominating the ASEAN Para Games and the Asian Para Games. His most recent success came at the Thailand ASEAN Para Games, where he captured three gold medals and one silver. 

"The Philippine sports community deeply mourns the loss of a master of the chessboard. FIDE Master (FM) Sander Severino was no stranger to an abundant life despite the cards life dealt him," PSC said.

"A World Chess Champion and resident gold medalist in the ASEAN Para Games and Asian Para Games, Severino dedicated his final moments doing what he loved most. A beacon of hope and inspiration to all."

"Rest in peace, Sander Severino."

—Bea Micaller/JMB, GMA Integrated News