Chess museum opens in Marikina

The Eugene Torre Chess Museum in Marikina City is now open to the public, featuring the life and legacy of Philippine Grand Master Eugene Torre. The museum is the first of its kind in the country and was inaugurated by Congresswoman Maan Teodoro and GM Torre himself. Also present at the event were Councilor Cloyd Casimiro, Marikina City Tourism Officer Poncianito Santos, and Jundio and Rosie Salvador, owners of the Pan de Amerikana Restaurant where the museum is located.

As a tribute to GM Torre's remarkable chess skills, a human chess demonstration was held during the inauguration, featuring preschool students from Our Lady of Perpetual Succor College. The game demonstrated the strategies and techniques used by GM Torre in his famous matches, leaving the audience in awe.

GM Torre has brought immense honor to the Philippines in the field of chess for over five decades. He became the first Grand Master in 1974 and was inducted into the World Chess Hall of Fame in 2021. The Eugene Torre Chess Museum showcases his achievements, medals, trophies, and selected photographs of his memorable matches throughout his colorful 50-year career in chess.

Advertisement

The museum is located at Pan de Amerikana Restaurant on Gen. Ordoñez, Brgy. Concepcion Dos, Marikina City. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission to the museum is free of charge, making it accessible to all chess enthusiasts and visitors alike.

The Eugene Torre Chess Museum has been highly anticipated by many, especially in the chess community, as it serves as a reminder of the importance of chess in Philippine sports history. It aims to inspire and motivate the youth to pursue excellence in sports, particularly in chess, and to continue GM Torre's legacy. With the opening of the museum, Marikina City further establishes itself as a hub for sports and culture, offering a unique experience for locals and tourists alike.