Fifteen-year-old Brandon Kier Sustento originally from Bacoor Cavite, Philippines and now living in the US, reign supreme in the Susan Polgar Charity Blitz Chess Tournament held at Momentum BMW Houston, Texas, USA on Monday, March 30,2026.
Sustento, a Grade 10 student of Harmony School of Innovation posted the highest output of perfect 5.0 points to take home the coveted title.
The Houston, Texas based Pinoy teen is fresh and a runner-up finish behind eventual champion International Master Anish Vivekanathan in the strong South Texas FIDE Open Standard chess tournament held at Texas Chess Center last February 27, 2026.
"It was an intense match. I am happy to win the 5 minute blitz chess tournament," said Sustento who has already earned the title of US Candidate Master and started playing tournaments in 2021.
He has won many big tournaments in Houston, Texas including scholastics, losing only to two Grandmasters and one International Master this year so far.
Brandon Kier comes from a strong chess background.
His father, FIDE Instructor Byjorn Sustento also the founder of Houston Chess School, is a friend of William So and used to host the young Wesley So at their home.
Today, Brandon Kier is coached and mentored by FM Noel Dela Cruz and by his father assisting with his over the board training.
Aside from Chess he also likes soccer and his goal is to keep winning higher titles and continue his successful journey in chess and someday go home to the Philippines and compete in tournaments.
His upcoming tournament, the Houston FIDE championship, is scheduled on May 1-3, 2026. (Marlon Bernardino)
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