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: 2025.12.17

Daishi Ichimanda is a Japanese poker player who has recently made his mark on the Asian poker circuit, specifically within the competitive fields of the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Daishi Ichimanda has recorded total live earnings of $3,857. His poker resume is currently highlighted by a breakout performance in late 2025, where he navigated a massive field in one of Manila’s most popular tournament series.

His largest and most significant live cash to date occurred in the PokerStars LIVE Manila last December 2025. Competing in the Manila Megastack 23 Main Event at Okada Manila, Ichimanda outlasted the majority of the 850-entry field to finish in 20th place, earning ₱227,000 (∼$3,857). This deep run in a major regional championship establishes a strong foundation for his emerging career on the international stage.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Daishi Ichimanda joins a growing wave of Japanese players traveling to Southeast Asia to compete in high-value tournaments. His presence at the Manila Megastack, a series known for attracting both local grinders and international visitors, suggests a willingness to travel for well-structured events. As a newer face on the circuit, his result in a major Main Event indicates he is actively transitioning into the live tournament scene.

Play Style & Strategy

Ichimanda’s performance in the Manila Megastack Main Event demonstrates an ability to play deep-stack poker and navigate multi-day tournaments. Finishing 20th out of 850 players requires patience, discipline, and the ability to adjust to varying stack depths over long sessions. This result suggests a solid fundamental understanding of tournament survival and ICM pressure as the field narrows toward the final tables.

Recent Attendances