From calculated openings to ironclad endgames, the JMC MAVENS of Jose Maria College Foundation, Inc. unleashed middlegame mastery across the boards as they captured the team championship title in the Ateneo Blue Knights League (ABKL) Chess Tournament, storming to 5 wins in 6 games, 9.5 points.

Following closely behind, Ateneo de Davao University’s (AdDU) Miya and Hanabi grabbed first runner-up with 4 wins and 9 points, while Blunderproof claimed second runner-up with 4 wins and 7.5 points, completing the final team standings.

Despite their board-sweeping dominance, JMC MAVENS’ Braint Marben Magdagasang admitted post-match that their victory caught them off-guard.

“After winning, I felt motivated even though we faced title players. Instead of feeling pressured, I was inspired to compete with them. To God be the glory—it felt like our prayers were answered as we simply aimed to give our best,” he said.

The tournament also featured remarkable individual boards: Board 1 crowned Team DNSC’ Jerome Pullos as champion, with AdDU Miya and Hanabi’s Irish Yngayo as first runner-up and UM Kabalyeros’ Lawrence Guanzon as second runner-up.

Meanwhile, Board 2 saw JMC MAVENS’ Romeo Cristian Pibte secured the champion title, followed by AdDU 67 Agila’s Kurt Joseph Pepito in first runner-up and San Pedro College Team MoSu’s Matthew Angelo Lansang in second runner-up.

Adding to the tournament highlights, AdDU Miya and Hanabi’s Blanche Ellyz Bongato was recognized as the Top Female Player for her unflinching positional play and consistency.

The chess competition was held at F213 Multipurpose Room on April 9, 2026.