Just last week, my fellow MTG Judge Felix messaged me a sort of an interview form which contains questions on my origin as a Magic Judge. He mentioned that he will using the information as part of his upcoming article to be posted at The Judges of Southeast Asia blog. Here below is what I have written and sent to him.
Name: Mark Ian Alloso
Local Game Store: A3 Bookstore Reis Place, Iloilo City
Mentor: Sashi Kumar Balakrishnan, L2 from Malaysia
When Did you got certified for L1: January 2015 Friday before Grand Prix Manila
What motivates you as a certified judge?
The main reason is probably my love of the game and I really wanted to learn more not only as a player but also as a certified judge. Gaining this status has opened a lot of opportunities for me to grow with the knowledge of the rules, organizing tournaments and handling the players’ questions and concerns. It is also my objective to get more people to learn and enjoy Magic. Given in this digital age as most of the favorites games are in the electronic platform, I will prove to them that playing a classic tabletop card game is still popular and of course fun.
Most memorable experience as an MTG judge so far?
My most memorable event is probably this year’s Philippine Nationals. It was my biggest and grandest tournament and being part of the judging team since Day 0 was very overwhelming. Having two different formats within one event was very challenging and I learned a lot of things though it was tiring but enjoyable.
What do you like most about your local MTG community?
Most of the Iloilo players are very competitive in terms of big-time tournaments and we make sure to prepare enough for an upcoming event. We do mainly our playtesting sessions after work up until late in the evening and during the weekly tournaments. Almost all of my travel buddies here have already earned a high finish in a major tournament or at least have gained a Pro point.
As an MTG judge, how would the local players of your community describe you?
My long-time friends can refer to me as a ‘suplado’ or strict type of person with regards to the implementation of MTG rules though I try to be friendly as possible especially to new players and explained to them in simple terms their rules questions.
Message for aspiring judges/inactive judges:
Yes, it is fun to be a Magic judge. You should be wary and observant on a lot of things especially on the correct rulings and penalties on competitive REL. This is sort of a continuing learning process for me personally which the aspect I really liked. Please do join us and become part of Magic: the Gathering Judges.