Biography
Sander Severino was a remarkable Filipino chess player whose life became a powerful story of determination, courage, and triumph against physical challenges. Born on June 30, 1985, in Silay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines, Severino grew into one of the country’s most celebrated para-athletes in chess. Despite living with a severe physical disability from a young age, he transformed his challenges into motivation, eventually becoming a world champion and an inspiration to countless aspiring athletes.
Severino’s journey in chess began during his early childhood, and it quickly became clear that he possessed exceptional talent and mental sharpness. While many children spent their early years exploring different hobbies, Severino discovered his passion for chess and began competing seriously. His dedication to the game and his strong competitive spirit allowed him to rise rapidly through youth tournaments, eventually gaining national and international recognition.
His life took a major turn when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the age of eight following a bicycle accident. The illness caused paralysis in both of his legs, forcing him to rely on a wheelchair for mobility. However, instead of allowing the condition to define his limits, Severino used chess as a platform to showcase his intelligence, resilience, and determination.
Over the years, Severino built a reputation as one of the Philippines’ finest para-chess athletes. His achievements brought pride not only to his hometown of Silay but also to the entire nation. His story became a symbol of hope, showing that physical challenges do not prevent individuals from achieving greatness if they possess passion and perseverance.
Sander Severino passed away on February 7, 2026, at the age of 40. His death left a deep impact on the sports community, especially among para-athletes and chess enthusiasts who admired his achievements and inspirational journey.
Age
Sander Severino was born on June 30, 1985, and passed away on February 7, 2026. He was 40 years old at the time of his death. Although his life was shorter than many would have hoped, it was filled with extraordinary accomplishments that left a lasting legacy.
From a young age, Severino demonstrated maturity and determination far beyond his years. His diagnosis with ALS at eight years old forced him to grow stronger emotionally and mentally. While most children might have struggled to accept such a life-changing condition, Severino embraced his passion for chess and turned it into a lifelong career.
Reaching 40 years of age while living with ALS was itself a testament to his resilience and fighting spirit. Throughout his life, he continued to compete, train, and represent his country at international tournaments. His journey showed that success is not measured by how long one lives but by how meaningful and impactful one’s life becomes.
Career
Sander Severino’s chess career started when he was only seven years old. His early exposure to the game quickly revealed his exceptional talent. By the age of nine, he had already won regional chess championships, and at eleven, he became the National Kiddies Chess Champion. These early victories proved that he was not just talented but destined for greatness in the sport.
In 2000, Severino competed in the Millennium Grand Prix chess tournament alongside fellow players Henry Roger Lopez and Jasper Rom. This tournament became an important step in his development, allowing him to gain exposure and experience in competitive chess. His participation was supported by sponsors who believed in his potential, especially in promoting opportunities for disabled athletes.
Later in 2000, Severino achieved a major breakthrough when he won the Asian Continental Under-16 Championship held in Bagac, Bataan. This victory solidified his reputation as a rising chess star and helped him earn recognition from the international chess community. His achievements eventually led to him receiving the prestigious FIDE Master title, which was officially awarded in 2015.
Severino also became a dominant force in para-chess competitions. He represented the Philippines in seven editions of the ASEAN Para Games, where he consistently delivered strong performances. One of his most memorable achievements came in the 2017 ASEAN Para Games in Kuala Lumpur, where he won a gold medal, bringing pride to his country and proving his skill on the international stage.
His success continued during the 2018 Asian Para Games in Jakarta. Severino played a vital role in helping the Philippine chess team secure multiple gold medals. Individually, he won gold medals in both the standard and rapid chess events. He also contributed to team victories, further cementing his legacy as one of the Philippines’ top para-athletes.
In 2020, Severino reached the peak of his career when he became the first Filipino to win the International Physically Disabled Chess Association (IPCA) Online World Chess Rapid Championship. He dominated the tournament, finishing undefeated with eight wins and one draw. His victory against Ukrainian player Igor Yarmonov in the finals marked a historic achievement for Philippine chess.
Even in the final years of his career, Severino continued to excel. His last tournament appearance was at the 2025 ASEAN Para Games held in Thailand in January 2026. During this competition, he delivered another outstanding performance by winning five gold medals and one silver medal, proving that his competitive spirit remained strong until the very end of his career.
Personal Life
Sander Severino lived a life defined by courage, determination, and passion. Despite living with ALS, he maintained a positive attitude and focused on achieving his dreams. His condition required him to use a wheelchair, but he never allowed this to limit his ambitions or stop him from competing at the highest level.
Severino was known for his humble personality and strong dedication to his craft. Friends, family members, and fellow athletes often described him as disciplined, hardworking, and deeply committed to representing the Philippines in international competitions. His strong mental focus and strategic thinking made him not only a skilled chess player but also a respected figure in the chess community.
He also became a role model for persons with disabilities. Many young athletes looked up to him as proof that physical limitations do not define one’s potential. His journey inspired others to pursue their passions regardless of challenges, making him a symbol of resilience and hope.
Severino remained closely connected to his hometown of Silay, where he was widely admired by residents who followed his achievements with pride. He often represented not just his country but also his community, showing that global success can come from small towns when combined with determination and talent.
Cause of Death
Sander Severino passed away on February 7, 2026, in Silay, Negros Occidental, Philippines. The cause of his death was reported as heart failure. His passing occurred shortly after returning from the 2025 ASEAN Para Games, where he had once again demonstrated his extraordinary chess abilities.
Before his death, Severino had been confined to a hospital for about a week following his participation in the international tournament. Although he had experienced health challenges throughout his life due to ALS, he continued competing and representing the Philippines with pride until his final days.
His death deeply saddened the Philippine sports community. Fellow athletes, chess organizations, and fans paid tribute to his achievements and celebrated his inspirational journey. His legacy continues to inspire para-athletes and chess players worldwide.
Conclusion
Sander Severino’s life story is one of determination, courage, and extraordinary achievement. Despite being diagnosed with ALS at a young age, he refused to let his condition limit his dreams. Instead, he used his intelligence, discipline, and passion for chess to become one of the Philippines’ most successful para-athletes.
His achievements, including winning multiple gold medals and becoming the first Filipino IPCA World Online Chess Champion, remain significant milestones in Philippine sports history. His journey showed that true strength comes from resilience, determination, and the willingness to overcome challenges.
Even after his passing, Severino’s legacy continues to inspire future generations. He will always be remembered as a champion not only in chess but also in life.
FAQs
Who was Sander Severino?
Sander Severino was a Filipino chess player and FIDE Master who became a world champion in para-chess competitions.
What illness did Sander Severino have?
He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which caused paralysis in his legs.
What was Sander Severino’s biggest achievement?
His biggest achievement was winning the 2020 IPCA Online World Chess Rapid Championship, becoming the first Filipino to win the title.
How many medals did Sander Severino win in international competitions?
He won multiple gold medals in the ASEAN Para Games and Asian Para Games, including five gold medals in his final tournament.
What caused Sander Severino’s death?
Sander Severino died from heart failure on February 7, 2026.
Peter Charles is a journalist and writer who covers battery-material recycling, urban mining, and the growing use of microreactors in industry. With 10 years of experience in industrial reporting, he explains new technologies and industry changes in clear, simple terms. He holds both a BSc and an MSc in Electrical Engineering, which gives him the technical knowledge to report accurately and insightfully on these topics.
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