Philippines Introduce Chess To School Curriculum

Many studies have claimed that the introduction of chess tuition to young children helps them achieve better progress in their academic and personal development. Now the government of the Philippines has taken the plunge and agreed to introduce chess to the curriculum in all primary and secondary schools in the country.

The memorandum agreement between the Department of Education and the National Chess Federation is entitled 'Strengthening the Development of Higher Order Thinking Skills and Values Among Children Through Chess'.

The Memorandum states that "Chess is a game that improves individual organizational and analytical skills. Children when exposed to this game at an early age achieve academically better, or even faster than those who have not been engaged in the game. Likewise, chess is among the activities that help build memory skills, concentration, self-confidence, self-esteem and in making disciplined decisions. Playing chess provides opportunities to practice such values as perseverance, honesty, and sportsmanship".

It will be interesting to see whether the program can achieve these ambitious aims.  If nothing else, the Philippines should produce more strong young chess players to follow in the footsteps of 15 year-old Wesley So (pictured, Elo 2641).