OZAMIZ City— Chess players coming to Misamis Occidental this November will have a chance to discover more than the competition, as the province uses two international tournaments to showcase its tourism destinations.
The province will host the 7th ASEAN+ Individual Chess Championships in Sinacaban from November 2 to 10, followed by the Misamis Occidental Philippine International Championship from November 10 to 17.
Organizers hope the tournaments will bring more visitors to the province’s tourist spots and encourage spending at local businesses, extending the benefits of the events beyond the chessboard.
Engr. Rey Urbiztondo, a tournament organizer and confidant of Gov. Henry S. Oaminal, said the governor sees international chess as an opportunity to promote sports while supporting business and tourism.
Among the attractions being highlighted is the Asenso Global Gardens in the uplands of Tangub City, known for its cool weather, landscaped grounds and castle-like structures.
Philippine Star sports writer Joey Villar, who visited the gardens with a chess delegation last year, described the destination as a hidden gem worth visiting again.
Another attraction is the Asenso Misamis Occidental Recreation and Adventure Park (AMORAP) in Sinacaban, venue of the ASEAN+ championships. The sprawling complex features mangroves and overwater villas inspired by the Maldives, earning it the nickname “Maldives of Mindanao.”
For chess delegates and other visitors, the tournaments offer an opportunity to explore destinations that may otherwise be overlooked by travelers passing through the province.
Waterfalls, highlands and heritage sites
Misamis Occidental has attractions for visitors who want to explore nature, enjoy outdoor activities or visit religious and heritage sites between tournament rounds.
In Ozamiz City, the Cotta Shrine remains a popular destination for devotees. Cagayan de Oro-based chess arbiter Lorenzo Cuizon, who recently earned the International Arbiter title from the International Chess Federation (FIDE), said working at tournaments hosted by local governments in Ozamiz and Misamis Occidental is exciting partly because of the places visitors can explore.
Cuizon said the Cotta Shrine is among his preferred stops, noting that his wife, Woman National Master Cecile Gaburno Cuizon, has a particular interest in religious destinations.
Other attractions include Sapang Dalaga Falls, the Christ the Redeemer statue at Caluya Shrine and the Caluya Floating Cottages.
Visitors seeking cooler surroundings can head to Don Victoriano, known as the province’s “Summer Capital,” where Lake Duminagat and Piduan Falls offer natural attractions.
The province’s other destinations include Baobawon Boardwalk in Plaridel; U-River and Bless Amare in Baliangao; and Siloy Man-made Lake in Calamba.
Those interested in local heritage can visit Saint John the Baptist Church in Jimenez. Other options include Kenjelo Farm in Oroquieta City and Tudela Highland Resort and Eco Park.
The Asenso Global Gardens in Tangub City also remains a major attraction for those looking for a highland escape.
Chess adds to the tourism push
The tournaments will also bring attention to competing players, including Cagayan de Oro’s Ruelle Canino, who is expected to return to Misamis Occidental as she pursues a Woman Grandmaster title after earning the International Master title.
A third international event, the AQ Prime International Open Chess Championship, is scheduled in Quezon City from November 17 to 25.
For Misamis Occidental, the bigger opportunity is to turn the arrival of chess players, officials and supporters into greater interest in its destinations and local businesses.
The tournaments can introduce the province to new visitors, but lasting tourism gains will depend on whether guests explore beyond the competition venues, spend in local communities and find reasons to return.
By bringing international chess to the province, organizers hope visitors will leave with more than memories of the games — and a reason to discover Misamis Occidental again.
