Understanding the Two Rating Systems
Many Filipino players — especially juniors and club regulars — discover they actually have two different ratings. But what do they mean, and why are both important?
Whether you're a beginner confused about your first tournament results or an experienced player wondering about the difference between local and international ratings, this guide will clarify everything you need to know.
Let's break down the two rating systems that shape Philippine chess.
A Familiar Story: Carlo's Confusion
Carlo, a 13-year-old from Davao, plays in rapid tournaments almost every weekend. His local rating is 1900, and he's earned several medals in city events.
Then, he joins a FIDE-rated classical tournament. When the pairings come out, he sees:
Carlo — FIDE rating: Unrated
He's puzzled. "But I've been playing for months! How can I still be unrated?"
Let's break it down.
What Are the Two Chess Ratings in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, players typically encounter two rating systems:
1. Local Rating
- Managed by Chess Portal PH, a platform widely used by local organizers
- Common in rapid, blitz, and sometimes classical tournaments
- Ratings start after just one or two events
- Used for pairings, seeding, and tracking local progress
- Updated monthly on chessportalph.org
Great for tracking growth in your local chess scene
2. FIDE Rating (International)
- Managed by the World Chess Federation (FIDE)
- Only earned in FIDE-rated events, usually for all types of time controls
- To get a rating, you need to play at least 5 games against FIDE-rated players
- Recognized worldwide and required for titles (CM, FM, IM, GM)
- Updated monthly on ratings.fide.com
Essential for players aiming for national teams or international titles
Local Rating vs FIDE Rating: What's the Difference?
| Feature | Local Rating | FIDE Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Philippines local rating | International |
| Time Controls | Mostly Rapid, Blitz, some Classical | Mostly Classical, Rapid, some Blitz |
| Managed By | Chess Portal PH | FIDE (via NCFP events) |
| How to Get It | Join local rated tourneys | Score vs FIDE-rated players |
| When It Updates | Monthly | Monthly |
| Use | Local pairing, seedings | Global recognition, title norms |
NCFP's Role: Now Focusing on FIDE-Rated Events
The National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) now focuses primarily on organizing and sanctioning FIDE-rated events, including:
National eliminations
International qualifiers
Classical title norm tournaments
This shift means that players with competitive ambitions must eventually transition to FIDE events to:
Earn an official FIDE ID
Start their FIDE rating
Be eligible for titles like CM, FM, IM, or GM
Which Rating Should You Focus On?
Both are useful, depending on your goals:
Beginners / Juniors
Start with local rated events to gain confidence and build experience.
Aspiring Competitive Players
Transition to FIDE-rated classical events as early as possible.
If you're serious about chess, your local rating is just the start — your FIDE journey is where the real climb begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between local rating and FIDE rating?
A: Local rating is earned through regional events; FIDE rating is international and only gained in FIDE-rated tournaments.
Q: Can I get a FIDE rating from a blitz or rapid tournament?
A: Only if the tournament is FIDE-rated for rapid or blitz. Most FIDE ratings come from classical events.
Q: How long does it take to get a FIDE rating?
A: It depends. You need to play at least 5 games against FIDE-rated players to become eligible for a rating.
Q: Do I need both ratings?
A: Not necessarily — but having both helps you track your growth locally and globally.
Final Thoughts: One Board, Two Ratings, One Goal
Whether you're dominating barangay blitz events or chasing your first FIDE norm in a classical tournament, remember this:
Both ratings are tools. But your love for the game is what drives you forward.
Keep improving, keep playing, and when you're ready — let the world know your name on the FIDE board.
Ready to Join Your Next Tournament?
Browse the latest FIDE-rated and local events on Chess Tournaments PH — the #1 platform for chess events in the Philippines.
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"Chess is not always about winning. Sometimes it's simply about learning."— Unknown
