Filipino world chess champion Sander Severino passes away

"We shared so many dreams for the team, so many battles still waiting to be fought side by side. We made history at the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta, when three flags were raised at the same time as our national anthem played—a moment of pride we will never forget," he said. 

"We did it again at the recently concluded 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand. I never imagined that it would be your final tour of duty in bringing honor and glory to our country," he added.

Infiesto went on to highlight how Severino will "forever live in our hearts."

In a tribute by the Philippine Paralympic Committee, they praised Severino for being a "true servant of the nation."

"For more than 15 years, Sander proudly represented the Philippines, winning medals and bringing honor to our country through his dedication, discipline, and quiet strength. Beyond his achievements on the chessboard, he will be remembered as a person of character, perseverance, and humility—an inspiration to fellow athletes and to the entire para sports community," they wrote.

"While Sander and his family understood the challenges that came with his disability, his passing still brings deep sadness to all of us who had the privilege of knowing him—not only as a national athlete, but as a valued friend and teammate," they added.

His cause of death was not immediately disclosed.

Severino's passing comes after he recently raised the country's flag at the ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, in January when he won three golds and one silver.

Growing up in Silay, Negros Occidental, Severino was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis when he was just eight years old. 

This is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. Over time, these motor neurons deteriorate and die, leading to muscle weakness, loss of motor control, and eventually paralysis.

Despite his disability, Severino refused to let it define him and decided to pour his heart into chess, achieving historic milestones and touching the lives of fellow athletes and fans alike.

He now has a total of 12 golds, two silvers, and two bronzes under his belt from his participation in the four ASEAN Para Games editions.

He also held the title of FIDE Master for his outstanding performance in the sport and was crowned the first International Physically Disabled Chess Association Online World Chess Champion in 2020.