FM Noel Dela Cruz
Guiding players from the fundamentals to advanced strategies — from beginner to expert, and from basic concepts to complex mastery.
| Location |  Philippines |
|---|---|
| Languages | English (US) |
| Rating | FIDE: 22412495240424372022 |
| Hourly rate | Always open for negotiation |
| Availability | Accepting students |
| Active |
About me
I’m a 47-year-old professional chess player based in the Philippines, proudly holding the title of FIDE Master (FM). My current FIDE rating is 2176, with a peak rating of 2392, achieved in 2010.
Playing experience
I bring with me decades of competitive experience both locally and internationally. Some of my notable achievements include:
🥈 Palarong Pambansa Silver Medalist, representing NCR, Philippines 1996
🎯 Two-time Grand Finalist – Shell National Active Chess Championships 1996-97
🏆 Co-Champion – Subic International Open, Philippines Challenger Section
🥇 Four-time Individual Gold Medalist – NCAA Chess
🏅 Four-time NCAA Team Champion 1996-1999
🏆 Champion Team Member – Glutaphos National Inter-Collegiate Tournament
🏆 Champion Team Member – Philippine National Games
🎖️ Grand Finalist – Battle of the Grandmasters Draw against the eventual champion Grandmaster Wesley So
🎖️ 3rd Place Malaysia Open Team tournament 2008
♟️ Best Game Recognition – Against GM Julio Catalino Sadorra at the International Open, Celebrity Sports Plaza, Quezon City
🥈 Palarong Pambansa Silver Medalist, representing NCR, Philippines 1996
🎯 Two-time Grand Finalist – Shell National Active Chess Championships 1996-97
🏆 Co-Champion – Subic International Open, Philippines Challenger Section
🥇 Four-time Individual Gold Medalist – NCAA Chess
🏅 Four-time NCAA Team Champion 1996-1999
🏆 Champion Team Member – Glutaphos National Inter-Collegiate Tournament
🏆 Champion Team Member – Philippine National Games
🎖️ Grand Finalist – Battle of the Grandmasters Draw against the eventual champion Grandmaster Wesley So
🎖️ 3rd Place Malaysia Open Team tournament 2008
♟️ Best Game Recognition – Against GM Julio Catalino Sadorra at the International Open, Celebrity Sports Plaza, Quezon City
Teaching experience
With over 20 years of coaching experience, I’ve helped shape the growth of many rising talents—some of whom have achieved International Master and National master titles. My journey includes:
🧠 10 years as a Chess Instructor for Milo Checkmate Chess clinic
🌐 6 years as an Online Chess Coach, mentoring students both locally and internationally
🎓 College Graduate – Bachelor’s degree in Political Science
🧠 10 years as a Chess Instructor for Milo Checkmate Chess clinic
🌐 6 years as an Online Chess Coach, mentoring students both locally and internationally
🎓 College Graduate – Bachelor’s degree in Political Science
Other experiences
Professional player of PCAP (Professional Chess Association of the Philippines). The Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) is the first professional chess league in the Philippines and reportedly the first in Southeast Asia.
Participant in various online chess tournaments and chess team battles.
Participant in various online chess tournaments and chess team battles.
Best skills
Opening preparation and endgame mastery
Personalized coaching based on student level and goals
Proven success in both over-the-board and online formats
Strong communicator with a passion for developing disciplined, confident players
Personalized coaching based on student level and goals
Proven success in both over-the-board and online formats
Strong communicator with a passion for developing disciplined, confident players
Teaching methodology
My approach to chess instruction is systematic, student-centered, and results-driven. I believe in building a solid foundation before diving into complex theories, ensuring that players develop well-rounded skills that support long-term improvement.