From airport benches to Bangkok champion: Bince Operiano’s remarkable chess journey

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 09, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

What began with nights spent on airport benches ended with a young Filipino chess player standing among the champions in Bangkok.

Bince Rafael Operiano of Oas, Albay was only nine years old when he represented the Philippines at the 6th Eastern Asia Youth Chess Championship in Bangkok, Thailand, held in November 2022. Competing in the Under-10 division, Bince entered the tournament after winning the Boys Under-9 category of the National Youth and Schools Chess Championships Grand Finals in Dapitan City.

But getting to the international competition proved nearly as difficult as the matches themselves.

Bince’s family had limited funds and sought help to cover airfare and other expenses. While waiting for travel arrangements, Bince and his father, Ben Operiano, spent nights sleeping on airport benches. Ben later recalled that he stayed at the airport for three nights, while Bince stayed for two before leaving for Thailand with the Philippine delegation. Ben could not immediately travel with his son because they still lacked money for his ticket.

Bince therefore arrived in Bangkok without his father by his side, though he remained with the Philippine team and accompanying adults. Reports at the time said the young chess player struggled emotionally during the early part of the competition and was seen crying as he waited for his father. Albay Rep. Fernando Cabredo recounted that Bince lost his early games while adjusting to the situation.

Ben eventually secured enough money to follow his son to Thailand with help solicited from supporters. His arrival gave Bince the familiar support he had been missing.

Bince recovered and went on to finish on top of the Under-10 standard competition, emerging ahead of a field of 29 young players. Across the tournament’s events, he brought home a gold trophy and four medals–one gold, one silver and two bronze.

His achievement earned recognition back home. The Philippine Senate later adopted a resolution congratulating and commending the young chess prodigy for his championship, citing both his international victory and the sacrifices his family made to give him the opportunity to compete.

Bince’s 2022 journey remains more than a story of winning across the chessboard. It also reflects the financial challenges young Filipino athletes and their families can face even after earning the chance to represent the country–and how far talent, perseverance and family support can carry them.

From airport benches to Bangkok chess champion