Queen’s Move: Women Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna Makes History in Abu Dhabi

The Philippines’ first Woman Grandmaster proves that calm precision and fierce will can rewrite history—one move at a time.

History was made in Abu Dhabi as Women Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna became the first Filipina to rule the Ladies Blitz Division of the 31st Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival — a triumph that marks another golden move for Philippine chess. Facing 120 participants from 24 countries, WGM Frayna delivered a remarkable performance—seven wins and two draws, ending the tournament with a flawless eight-point score. Her final-round draw against Uzbek International Master Gulrukhbegim Tokhirjonova sealed the title and etched her name in international chess once more. “This is my first time playing in the Abu Dhabi Chess Festival. Thank you to our Pinoy friends who made us feel at home,” WGM Frayna shared in a Facebook post after her win on August 17. “It’s one tough tournament, but I will surely give my best.”

True to her word, she did. Competing abroad for the first time in the Abu Dhabi arena, the Filipina grandmaster displayed the same amount of grit and grace that has defined her journey since earning the Woman Grandmaster by Fédération

Internationale des Échecs or International Chess Federation in 2017—the first in Philippine history.

Her career has been a portrait of quiet determination. A former Far Eastern University (FEU) standout and cum laude Psychology graduate, WGM Frayna’s rise began long before the global spotlight found her. At just 20, she clinched her final WGM norm at the 2016 Baku Olympiad, a nerve-wracking draw that secured her place as the country’s trailblazing queen of the board. From there, she collected SEA Games bronzes in 2021 and continued to represent the country with unwavering composure.

Beyond her intellect, her discipline has been tested and honed through another demanding path—serving as an enlisted Private First Class in the Philippine Army. The same strategic precision she shows across the chessboard mirrors the resilience she brings to both her service and sport. With every move, she played not just for herself, but for a country whose pride lives in every victory born from passion and purpose.

WGM Frayna’s victory in Abu Dhabi is more than a gold medal. It’s a symbol of Filipino excellence, of how dedication turns potential into history. In a sport that demands calculation and composure, she has shown that women can stand not just on equal ground—but on the winning side.

As the final piece was placed, Women Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna didn’t just make a move; she made a mark that will inspire the next generation of Filipino players to aim higher, think deeper, and move forward with courage.

References:

PhilSTAR Life. (2024, August 19). Filipina Grandmaster Janelle Mae Frayna wins historic gold in Abu Dhabi.

Explained PH. (2024, August 20). Janelle Frayna clinches Abu Dhabi blitz crown, marks new milestone for Philippine