Philippine chess legend and five-time Asian Games gold medalist Sander Severino passes away at 40

The Philippine sports community is in mourning following the passing of chess legend and five-time Asian Games gold medalist Sander Severino. Severino, one of the most decorated chess players to emerge from the Philippines, died on Saturday, February 7, at the age of 40 in his hometown of Silay, Negros Occidental, due to heart failure.

Severino’s death came as a profound shock to many, particularly as it followed his recent triumphs at the 2026 ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, in January. Despite his lifelong battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Severino had just clinched three gold medals and one silver at the games, demonstrating that his competitive fire remained undiminished. He captured gold in the Men’s Individual Standard P1 and Men’s Individual Blitz P1 events and contributed to the Men’s Team Standard P1 squad that also secured the gold. Across four editions of the ASEAN Para Games, Severino amassed an extraordinary total of 12 golds, two silvers, and two bronzes, cementing his status as one of the country’s greatest para athletes.

Born on June 30, 1985, Severino was diagnosed with ALS at the age of eight and spent much of his life confined to a wheelchair. Yet his physical limitations never hindered his ambitions or his love for the game. In 2020, he earned international acclaim by winning the International Physically Disabled Chess Association Online World Championship, officially becoming a world chess champion and further solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in para chess.

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Severino’s passing has sent ripples through the Philippine chess and para sports communities, with heartfelt tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, and fellow athletes.

#RondaAtletaBits | IN MEMORIAM

FIDE Master Sander Severino
PH Para Chess Team

3 Golds, 1 Silver Medal – 13th ASEAN Para Games (Thailand)
Champion, Open Blitz – Asian Chess Championships for Players With Disabilities (Tagaytay City)

1985-2026

Photo: PTVSports Network pic.twitter.com/tVNPz8uT8r

— Sports Corner PH (@sportscornerph) February 7, 2026

“You will forever live in our hearts — in every move we make, in every fight we continue, and in every victory we dedicate to the team you loved so dearly. His courage, dedication, and love for the game live on in every move we make and every battle we face for the country. He may be gone, but his legacy remains — guiding us, strengthening us, and reminding us why we play,” wrote Philippine para chess team head coach James Infiesto, capturing the collective grief and admiration of the team.

Severino’s longtime chess teammate Henry Lopez also shared his grief, recalling decades of memories together. “Gone too soon. I can’t believe that you are gone, Sander Severino. Too many memories together in more than 25 years of being my teammate since the year 2000. You are the best teammate ever. Thanks for the memories. Rest in the arms of the Almighty,” Lopez said.

Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan added his tribute, highlighting Severino’s impact beyond chess. “Thank you, kuya Sander Severino. It’s an honor to be part of the national team with you. I didn’t know that the ASEAN Para Games would be the last time we would meet. RIP kuya,” Gawilan wrote.

Severino’s life and career were a testament to resilience, determination, and the unbreakable human spirit. Despite living with a debilitating condition, he became an icon of Philippine para sports and a source of inspiration for athletes across disciplines. His contributions went beyond his medal tally; he helped elevate para chess in the country, inspired younger players, and showed that limitations do not define one’s potential.

In recognition of his achievements and enduring legacy, Severino will be posthumously honored at the Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night, scheduled for February 16 at the Diamond Hotel in Manila. The tribute will celebrate not only his exceptional career but also his profound influence on Philippine sports and the para-athlete community.

As the nation mourns, Sander Severino leaves behind a legacy that transcends chess — one of courage, perseverance, and inspiration that will continue to guide future generations of Filipino athletes.

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