Grade 1 pupils in all public and private schools in Marikina City will soon learn chess as a regular academic subject.

At the official announcement held recently at Pan de Amerikana Restaurant in Brgy. Marikina Heights, Mayor Marides Fernando said the inclusion of chess in the Grade 1 curriculum shows the city’s commitment to introduce discipline, perseverance, and critical thinking at a young age.

“These are just three of the many traits chess helps to nurture. Chess also teaches independence, forcing one to make important decisions influenced only by his own judgment, and to accept the consequences of his actions,” she added.

Marikina is believed to be the first local government unit in the country to include chess in the Grade 1 curriculum.

Also at the event were Dr. Carmelita Palabay, Department of Education-Marikina District supervisor II, Dr. Aurora Divino, DepEd-Marikina District supervisor I, and chess grandmasters Jason Gonzales and Eugene Torre. Torre, head of the Eastern Chess Organization, pledged to provide free training to teachers.

Other details (subject description of chess, school year of effectivity) will be announced shortly.