LUNA, Apayao – Chess icon Mhage Sebastian encouraged yApayao athletes to pursue their dreams with courage as she delivered an inspiring message during the opening of the 30th Founding Anniversary Sports Tournament on January 28 at the BGVJr. Memorial Sports Center in Luna.
As the first Woman National Master (WNM) from the Cordillera, Sebastian shared the values that guided her using the acronym C-H-E-S-S, C for courage, H for heart, E for ear to listen, s for sincerity, and another S for service. She underscored that achieving greatness is about lifting others along the way and not just about winning.
“It does not end at the summit. We need to go down and give what we have, to share what we learned. Magsilbi tayo at ipamahagi ang mga natutunan natin sa buhay para ang mga susunod sa atin, aangat din sila, magtatagumpay din sila,” she said.
She likewise expressed gratitude to the Provincial Government of Apayao, particularly Gov. Elias C. Bulut, Jr. and Cong. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang for supporting her journey as a young chess master.
At just 18 years old, Sebastian has made history as the first yApayao chess master and the first WNM in the region. She represented the country as the youngest member of the Philippine National Chess Team at 14 and has competed in more than 10 international tournaments in Asia and Europe. She is likewise the reigning Most Valuable Player (MVP) in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 87, leading her team Far Eastern University (FEU) to a back to back title.
Sebastian hopes to inspire her fellow yApayao by proving that no dream is too ambitious when pursued with determination. She reminded all the athletes that talent alone is not enough – it must be nurtured through discipline, perseverance, and constant self-improvement. With the right mindset, she believes that everyone can achieve greatness in all areas of life. By Michelle Acantilado
