All The Reasons To Be At APT Manila Classic 2025

The wait is almost over! Regional powerhouse Asian Poker Tour is back and ready to kick off another exhilarating season with the highly anticipated APT Manila Classic 2025 – Sponsored by Natural8, taking place from February 7-16. Staged at Crowne Plaza Galleria in the heart of Manila, Philippines, this ten-day poker extravaganza runs in partnership with Metro Card Club. The festival promises to be one for the ages, bringing together some of the best poker talent, eager newcomers, and passionate enthusiasts from across the globe.

With an action-packed schedule of 95 trophy events, players will have countless opportunities to chase titles, battle for huge cash prizes, and make their mark on the international poker scene. A mammoth PHP 143 million (~USD 2.4 million) in combined guarantees line the schedule, setting the grounds for another thrilling ride.

APT Manila Classic 2025 – Schedule

A Glimpse at What’s in Store

The APT Classic 2025 Main Event sits at the center of it all, with its PHP 60,000,000 (~USD 1,000,000) headliner guarantee on everyone’s focus. Following the monumental success of the brand’s previous visit in December, which saw a record-breaking 1,081 entries in the Main Event alone, expectations remain sky-high for this year’s edition.

This season is primed to match, if not exceed, those record numbers, offering players multiple opportunities to qualify through four available flights. The APT Main Event kicks off on Sunday, February 9th, with action running all week until February 15th.

APT Main Event

• Date/s: February 9-15, 2025
• Buy in: PHP 60,000 (~USD 1,020)
• Guarantee: PHP 60,000,000 (~USD 1,000,000)
• Flight A (60 minute blinds) – February 9, Sunday
• Flight B (45/60 minute blinds) – February 10, Monday
• Flight C & D (30/45 minute blinds) – February 11, Tuesday
• Day 2 (Reg open until start) – February 12, Wednesday
• Day 3 – February 13, Thursday
• Day 4 – February 14, Friday
• Final Day – February 15, Saturday

Aside from the Main Event, several highlights likewise draw attention right from the onset. Opening day sees the Philippines National Cup jumpstart the action, followed right after by two more key events – Mystery Bounty – Sponsored by Natural8, and APT Super High Roller. One of the most prestigious on the list, SuperStar Challenge runs alongside the Main Event games, commanding a buy-in of PHP 1,500,000 (~USD 25,000) yet again. A Mini and Micro version of the Main Event are slated on the tail end of the lineup, offering players who missed the Main Event cut, another run at the trophy.

Throughout the series, over a dozen high roller tournaments are geared to keep the action intense and players on their toes. Whether it’s competing for the biggest prizes or just looking to test their poker skills against top-tier competition, these events ensure there’s something for every player, no matter their level or bankroll.

The Manila Experience

You can’t visit a city without trying its local cuisine! Manam Comfort Filipino has become a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic yet modern twist on traditional Filipino dishes. With a menu that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of the country, Manam is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience comfort Filipino food in a contemporary, casual setting.

Address: G/F The Podium, 12 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1605 Metro Manila
Phone: (02) 8244 5516

At Yabu: House of Katsu, the star of the show is undeniably the tonkatsu – a classic Japanese dish consisting of breaded and deep-fried pork cutlets. What sets Yabu apart is its attention to detail in perfecting this simple yet satisfying dish. The pork is always tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while the crispy coating is light and perfectly golden, without being greasy.

Address: Robinsons Galleria, Ortigas Ave, Ortigas Center, Quezon City, Metro Manila
Phone: (02) 8534 3130

For anyone in Manila looking for an elevated yet approachable dining experience, Mamou has earned its place as one of the city’s top restaurants. Known for its premium steaks, fresh local ingredients, and an inviting, relaxed atmosphere, Mamou offers both comfort and sophistication in every dish. Well-known for its signature steaks boasting of rich, beefy flavor, marbled texture, and melt-in-your-mouth quality, Mamou is definitely a must visit when in the city.

Address: G/F The Podium, 12 ADB Ave, Ortigas Center, Mandaluyong, 1605 Metro Manila
Phone: 0917 506 2668

Located in the heart of Ortigas Center, Moonshine P.U.B. x Public Urban Bar offers a perfect blend of great food, creative drinks, and a welcoming ambiance, making it a clear stop in Ortigas. Whether you’re looking to enjoy an evening of good food, drinks, and lively conversations, or simply want to unwind in a cozy setting, Moonshine provides the ideal environment.

Address: Retail L005 to 006 The Sapphire Bloc, Garnet Rd, Pasig, Metro Manila
Phone: 0998 921 0326

At the core of City Golf Ortigas is its state-of-the-art driving range facility, where you can get some swings in any day of the week. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, the facility offers a chance to enjoy a round of golf without the hassle of heading out to a course. Featuring top-tier equipment, City Golf allows players to experience world-class gaming right in the heart of the city.

Address: City Golf Plaza, Doña Julia Vargas Ave, Pasig, Metro Manila
Phone: (02) 8683 0620

Studio 300 offers an exciting mix of bowling, food, and drinks, making it a perfect destination for both casual fun and group events. Regardless if you’re a seasoned bowler or a complete beginner, this modern bowling alley provides a fantastic space to enjoy a game with friends or family, complete with a range of amenities and a lively atmosphere.

Address: 3rd Floor, Pioneer Street, Pioneer Center Rd, Pasig, 1603 Metro Manila
Phone: 0917 676 7300

Getting There

One of the most convenient and widely used options for getting from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Ortigas is via Grab. Taxis are also readily available at designated stands outside all three terminals at NAIA, making it easy to hop into one as soon as you exit the airport. Typically, the journey takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, with fares ranging from PHP 300 to PHP 600 (~USD 5.50 to USD 11).

About Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria

An IHG Hotel, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is at the centre of Ortigas, a bustling business and commercial district that includes multinational firms, government agencies and major financial institutions. With top notch amenities and direct connection to one of Ortigas’ biggest shopping malls, Robinsons Galleria; Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria is the ideal work play destination for connected travelers.

Experience productivity and relaxation in its well-appointed renovated guest rooms, with luxurious beddings, soft furnishings, technology and the finest amenities to refresh you upon arrival. Gastronomic journeys await at the all-day dining restaurant, Seven Corners, where you can enjoy an elevated dining experience inspired by the world’s top cuisines, or rediscover Chinese cuisine at the award-winning Xin Tian Di and savour the best culinary creations from the orient.

Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria proudly hosts the largest and the best-equipped in the area, with its Grand Ballroom boasting 1,272 square metres of pillarless space equipped with state-of-the-art-facilities. Its largest room capacity has the ability to accommodate over 1,500 guests, making its unparalleled size an ideal venue for major business conferences, social functions and most recently, poker events.