Athletes

Sander Severino Filipino chess player dead at age 40

Sander Severino, a Filipino chess player and FIDE Master, died on February 7, 2026.

Born on June 30, 1985, in Silay, Negros Occidental, he competed in the 2018 and 2022 Asian Para Games. Severino was crowned the first IPCA Online World Chess Champion in 2020.

Diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis at age eight, he used a wheelchair and played chess competitively from childhood. He also became a regional champion at age 9 and the National Kiddies Champion at age 11.

Sander de Erit Severino (June 30, 1985 – February 7, 2026) was a Filipino chess player who held the title of FIDE Master. He participated in the 2018 and 2022 Asian Para Games. In 2020, he was crowned the first IPCA (International Physically Disabled Chess Association) Online World Chess Champion.

Tags

Other athletes

More from Philippines

More from February 7, 2026