DFA Consular Office In Cebu Staff Earns Top Honor in ASEAN-Russia Chess Tournament

From left to right – Irina Pavlova, Ambassador Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov, DFA Cebu Consular Officer Lorainne Powao, and Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Cebu Armi Lopez-Garcia in the Recognition Ceremony (Photo courtesy of Lorainne L. Powao)

CEBU 24 July 2025 – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Consular Office in Cebu lauded its very own Consular Officer, Ms. Lorainne L. Powao, for winning the Best Female Chess Player in the ASEAN-Russian Online Chess Tournament organized by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which took place on 18 April 2025. 

The ASEAN-Russia online chess tournament is part of the ongoing diplomatic and cultural efforts to further strengthen ties through sports diplomacy, particularly chess. It fosters mutual understanding and respect through the shared passion for the said sport. Additionally, the tournament serves as a cultural bridge to foster friendships across borders. 

Ms. Powao was honored by the Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov on 21 July 2025 for her outstanding performance in the said chess tournament. Held at the Russian Consulate in Mandaue City, Cebu, Ms. Powao received a certificate of recognition and a commemorative chessboard signed by Russian Grandmaster Sergey Karjakin, a former World Championship contender and one of the sport’s respected figures.  The memento was a meaningful gesture linking global excellence with a Filipino talent who played not just for herself, but for country and service.

Also present were Mrs. Irina Pavlov, wife of the Russian Ambassador and Russian Honorary Consul in Cebu, Armi Lopez-Garcia.

“It is an honor and privilege to be seen and acknowledged. I did not expect that my participation in the online tournament and winning games would have such a profound impact way beyond my comprehension. Representing the Philippines and the DFA through something I love is meaningful,” said Ms. Powao.

Dr. Angel H. Espiritu Jr., Acting Head of Consular Office in Cebu, praised Ms. Powao’s achievement and underscored the DFA’s commitment to empowering its personnel beyond the office walls. 

“The DFA encourages excellence in many forms, whether through public service or personal pursuits. Ms. Powao’s recognition shows that diplomacy and goodwill can be advanced in many ways, even through an online game of strategy proudly played from Cebu,” said Dr. Espiritu.

Ms. Powao’s recognition reflects the DFA’s continuing efforts to uplift Filipino talent, and promote diplomacy through both traditional and innovative platforms. END

DFA Cebu Consular Officer Loraine L. Powao received the Certificate of Recognition and commemorative chessboard signed by Russian Chess Grandmaster Sergey Karjakin by Russian Ambassador to the Philippines Marat Ignatyevich Pavlov. (Photo courtesy of Lorainne L. Powao)