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: 2026.01.03

Carmelo Tutay Jr is a Guamanian professional poker player who has become a rising figure in the Southeast Asian tournament scene, widely recognized for his deep runs in major festivals such as the APPT and APT.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $14,447. His career-best cash of PHP 200,000 (∼$3,644) was achieved in August 2023 during the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila, where he secured a 13th-place finish in the APPT National event. Tutay Jr has remained exceptionally active through 2024 and 2025, recording numerous cashes in high-profile series across the Philippines and Vietnam. Notably, he bagged a competitive stack of 61,600 for Day 2 of the 2025 APPT Manila Championship, demonstrating his ability to maintain momentum in prestigious multi-day tournaments. He also demonstrated his resilience in the 2023 APPT Manila Main Event, where he battled through a massive field of 1,354 entries.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Guam, where he currently resides, Tutay Jr has successfully transitioned his game from the regional circuit to international waters. He is currently ranked 2nd on the Guam All Time Money List, a testament to his status as one of the premier players from his territory. His trajectory is marked by a dedicated presence in the booming Asian poker hub of Manila, frequently cashing in major events at premier venues such as Okada Manila. In early 2026, he reached a career-high Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking within the top 45,000 players worldwide.

Play Style & Strategy

Tutay Jr is known for a resilient and opportunistic tournament strategy, often described as a player who can effectively navigate the volatile dynamics of short-stack play. His ability to reach the deep stages of high-stakes events like the APPT National, where he outlasted hundreds of international competitors, demonstrates strong situational awareness and discipline. Whether he is competing in a high-leverage No Limit Hold’em flip or managing a chip stack through the grueling Day 1 flights of major championships, his patient accumulation and tactical adjustments to the aggressive Asian play style make him a formidable threat at any final table.

Recent Attendances