Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2025.12.19

Karen Talamayan is a Filipino professional poker player and a prominent figure in the Asian tournament circuit, particularly recognized for her consistent success in technical side events and “Women’s Event” categories.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Karen Talamayan has total live earnings of $45,060. Her career-best live cash of VND 110,340,000 (~$4,706) was achieved in April 2023 at APT Phu Quoc, where she secured a 2nd-place finish in the High Speed Main Event.

Talamayan has maintained a high volume of results throughout 2025 across major regional stops. In December 2025, she recorded multiple final table finishes at Manila Megastack 23, including 4th place in a No Limit Hold’em event for PHP 30,500 (~$519) and 7th in the 15/10/5 event for PHP 17,000 (~$291). Her diverse resume also includes notable performances in the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila Championship, where she finished 2nd in the Knockout Turbo for PHP 165,000 ~($2,840) and 3rd in the Last Chance Super Hyper Turbo for PHP 53,000 (~$904). These consistent performances have placed her 205th on the Philippines All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from the Philippines, where she currently resides, Talamayan has spent years establishing herself as a “multi-decorated” competitor in the region. She is frequently seen alongside fellow pro Joseph Talamayan, and both are known for their deep runs in prestigious local series at the Metro Card Club and Okada Manila. Her breakthrough moment occurred in July 2022 at the APT Summer Festival Hanoi, where she secured her first major trophy and a VN₫ 98,190,000 prize in the Deep Stack Turbo. Over the years, she has expanded her reach to Vietnam, Taiwan, and South Korea, becoming a regular in flagship festivals such as the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and the Manila Super Series.

Play Style & Strategy

Talamayan is recognized for a disciplined and resilient play style, particularly excelling in fast-paced formats like Turbo, Hyper Turbo, and Deep Stack tournaments. Her maiden victory in the APT Deep Stack Turbo highlighted a combination of tactical patience and the ability to capitalize on late-stage aggression, as seen in her crucial double-ups through top international competitors. Known for her composure under pressure, she effectively balances a wait-and-see approach in early levels with a highly opportunistic strategy during the bubble and final table phases of championship-level events.

Recent Attendances