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: 2026.01.02

Daijiro Tomoto is a Japanese professional poker player who has established himself as a prominent fixture in the Southeast Asian tournament circuit, particularly within the high-volume festivals of the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Daijiro Tomoto has total earnings of $101,681. His career reached a significant milestone in 2025, during which he crossed the $100,000 lifetime winnings mark following a series of deep runs at major regional festivals.

His career-best live cash of $20,953 was secured in June 2025 at Okada Manila, where he finished 2nd in a No Limit Hold’em event. Tomoto is a frequent presence on the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and Asian Poker Tour (APT) leaderboards. In late 2024, he captured a title at APT Manila, winning the PHP 6,000 Turbo Double Stack for PHP 76,853. His consistency in the Philippines is further evidenced by a 2nd-place finish in the Manila Super Series 22 Mini Main Event for PHP 335,000 (∼$5,715) and several final table appearances during the 2025 APPT Manila Championship.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan and currently residing in Tokyo, Tomoto has become a “circuit nomad” in the burgeoning Asian poker scene. While the Japanese domestic market is primarily focused on amusement games, Tomoto has successfully transitioned to the professional live circuit, with the vast majority of his results occurring in Manila.

His professional trajectory is characterized by an incredible work rate; in October 2025 alone, he recorded five separate cashes at Okada Manila across various formats, including the APPT National and several Turbo events. This relentless schedule has allowed him to climb to 249th on the Japan All Time Money List, representing the growing competitiveness of Japanese players on the international stage.

Play Style & Strategy

Tomoto is known for a highly adaptable and aggressive tournament strategy, particularly excelling in fast-paced and short-handed formats. His ability to capture multiple podium finishes in Turbo, Hyper Turbo, and Shot Clock events demonstrates an elite proficiency in navigating high-pressure, reduced-stack environments.

His success in larger fields, such as his 16th-place finish in the 624-entry APPT Mystery Bounty, highlights a strong grasp of modern tournament theory and the tactical patience required for multi-day grinds. This versatility, moving seamlessly between the aggressive requirements of a Turbo Double Stack and the disciplined play needed for a major Main Event, makes him one of the most dangerous and consistent mid-stakes professionals currently emerging from the Japanese community.

Recent Attendances