Filipino Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. Triumphs in Taiwan Chess Blitz Tournament

At 63, Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. continues to prove his mettle, winning the 2025 CTCA International Chess Open Blitz tournament in Taiwan. The Filipino chess master secured a commanding victory, highlighting his enduring skill and strategic prowess in a fiercely competitive international field.

Grandmaster Rogelio Antonio Jr. / Photo File FB
Grandmaster Rogelio Antonio Jr. / Photo File FB

Taoyuan City, Taiwan – Filipino Grandmaster Rogelio “Joey” Antonio Jr. has added another prestigious title to his impressive career, winning the 2025 Chinese-Taipei Chess Association (CTCA) International Chess Open Blitz tournament. The 63-year-old Quezon City resident secured solo first place with a commanding 8.5 points out of a possible 9, showcasing his exceptional blitz chess skills.



Antonio’s victory was marked by an impressive start, winning the first five rounds against a strong field of international competitors. His undefeated streak included victories over Arena FIDE Master Yu-Ting Yen and Yong-Ye Chen (both Chinese-Taipei), Arena FIDE Master Kok Onn Osric Mooi (Singapore), Woman International Master Kylen Joy Mordido (Philippines), and FIDE Master Roel Abelgas (Philippines). He then drew with FIDE Master Sander Severino (Philippines) in the sixth round before continuing his winning streak against National Master Darry Bernardo (Philippines), Grandmaster Gergely Aczel (Hungary), and International Master Ryosuke Nanjo (Japan) in the final round.

The tournament, held last Saturday, July 19th, in Taoyuan City, attracted a strong international contingent. Grandmaster Gergely Aczel of Hungary secured second place with 8.0 points, followed by FIDE Master Sander Severino and Arena Grandmaster Carl Zirex Sato of the Philippines, both scoring 7.5 points. National Master Darry Bernardo, International Master Ryosuke Nanjo, and Woman International Master Kylen Joy Mordido finished 5th to 7th with 7.0 points each. Rounding out the top 10 were James Infiesto (Philippines), Wu Chen-Hao (Chinese-Taipei), and FIDE Master Roel Abelgas, all with 6.5 points.

“I am so happy winning this tough blitz rapid chess competition in Taiwan,” said a delighted GM Antonio. This victory comes on the heels of his recent wins at the Philippine Battle of the Champions and the 5th Asenso Ozamis Open chess championship held in Ozamis City on July 12th and 13th, hosted by Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S. Oaminal Sr.

This latest triumph further solidifies GM Antonio’s position as a leading figure in the world of chess, demonstrating his continued dominance and unwavering skill in high-pressure competitions. His consistent success is a testament to his dedication, experience, and strategic prowess.