The Philippine chess community and fellow para athletes expressed their sadness over the passing of FIDE Master Sander Severino, who died Saturday due to heart failure.

National para chess team coach James Infiesto said the memory of the late woodpusher will forever be in his teammates’ minds and hearts.

Severino was one of the top performers for the Philippines in the 13th ASEAN Para Games with five golds and one silver medal.

“Sander Severino’s passing will forever inspire the Philippine para chess team. His courage, dedication, and love for the game live on in every move we make and every battle we face for the country,” Infiesto said.

“He may be gone, but his legacy remains — guiding us, strengthening us, and reminding us why we play.”

Severino’s teammate Henry Lopez thanked him for more than two decades of camaraderie and friendship.

Together with Jasper Rom, Lopez and Severino won two gold medals in the men’s team standard P1 and team blitz P1 in the ASEAN Para Games.

“Gone too soon... I can’t believe that you’re gone Sander Severino, too many memories together in more than 25 years of being my teammate since the year 2000,” Lopez said.

“You’re the best teammate ever. Tnx for the memories. Rest in the arms of the Almighty.”

Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan offered his condolences to Severino, a veteran Filipino athlete.

“Thank you kuya Sander Severino. It’s an honor to be part of the national team with you,” Gawilan said.

“I didn’t know that the ASEAN Para Games would be the last time we would meet. RIP Kuya.”

Severino will be posthumously honored during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Awards Night on 16 February at the Diamond Hotel Manila.