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

Guan Leong Yap is a Singaporean professional poker player who has established himself as a prominent and versatile competitor across the major tournament circuits of Southeast Asia.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Guan Leong Yap has total earnings of $64,219. His career-best live cash of RM 107,945 (∼$23,217) was achieved in August 2023 at Poker Dream 6 – Malaysia, where he claimed the title in the Mini High Roller event.

Yap is a frequent and successful participant in major regional festivals. In December 2025, he showcased his skills at Manila Megastack 23 in the Philippines, securing an 8th-place finish in the Megastack Turbo for PHP 72,000 (∼$1,223) and taking 13th in the 6-Handed event. Earlier that year, he recorded a 1st-place victory at Poker Dream 18 – Malaysia in a Turbo event for RM 22,100 (∼$5,248). His extensive resume also includes a runner-up finish in a Bounty event at WPT Cambodia for $5,894 and multiple deep runs in the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and Asian Poker Tour (APT) . These consistent performances have placed him 128th on the Singapore All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Singapore, where he continues to reside, Yap has become a fixture in the Asian poker boom. He has built his reputation through high-volume grinding at major stops in Manila, Kuala Lumpur, and Phnom Penh. His trajectory shows a player who has mastered regional technical fields, transitioning from local events to competing in flagship series like the World Poker Tour (WPT) and the Poker Dream circuit. His longevity is evidenced by successful results spanning various countries, including Vietnam and Taiwan, making him a well-traveled regular in the region.

Play Style & Strategy

Yap is recognized for a highly adaptable and technical play style, excelling in both High Roller formats and fast-paced Turbo structures. His ability to secure titles in technical fields like the Poker Dream Mini High Roller demonstrates a strong grasp of ICM dynamics and late-stage tournament aggression. Known for his proficiency in No Limit Hold’em, his strategy often involves a calculated approach to bounty-based and knockout formats, where he effectively leverages his stack to pressure opponents. His resilience in diverse fields across Southeast Asia proves he is a formidable opponent in any tournament variant.

Recent Attendances