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: 2025.12.20

Benjamin Martinez is an American professional poker player who has established a significant presence on the international tournament circuit, particularly within the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and major series in the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Benjamin Martinez has accumulated total live tournament earnings of $18,897. He experienced a breakout year in 2025, recording multiple high-profile cashes across both the United States and Southeast Asia.

His most significant results to date include:

WSOP Millionaire Maker (June 2025): Martinez recorded his best live cash at the 56th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, finishing 366th in the $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Millionaire Maker (Bracelet Event #53) for $6,800.
APPT Manila Superstack Hyper Turbo (August 2025): He achieved a career-best podium finish, placing 2nd in the PHP 15,000 No Limit Hold’em Superstack Hyper Turbo (Event #91) for PHP 196,000 (∼$3,433).
APPT Manila National (July 2025): Martinez secured a deep run in the PHP 35,000 APPT National (Event #8), finishing 17th in a competitive field for PHP 164,000 (∼$2,888).
Manila Megastack 23 (November 2025): Most recently, he finished 14th in the PHP 17,600 + 2,400 Mystery Bounty event for PHP 56,000 (∼$960).
APPT Manila Championship (October 2025): He recorded a 19th-place finish in another PHP 35,000 APPT National event for PHP 130,000 (∼$2,237).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from the United States, Martinez is part of the robust community of international players who have turned their focus toward the burgeoning poker markets in Manila. He is currently ranked 57,556th on the United States All Time Money List and holds a Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking of 20,602nd. His 2025 trajectory shows a dedicated transition from domestic US tournaments to becoming a regular fixture in major Asian series like the APPT and Manila Megastack.

Play Style & Strategy

Martinez is recognized for a versatile tournament strategy that adapts well to both large-field championship events and fast-paced specialized structures. His success in formats ranging from the Millionaire Maker to Hyper Turbo and Mystery Bounty events indicates a strong command of stack management and the tactical adjustments required for high-variance environments. By consistently reaching the late stages of major APPT events, he has demonstrated the technical proficiency and patience necessary to navigate through diverse international fields.

Recent Attendances