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

Hidekazu Tanaka is a Japanese professional poker player who has become an active competitor in the Southeast Asian poker scene, frequently traveling to major hubs like the Philippines to participate in prestigious regional festivals.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Hidekazu Tanaka has accumulated total live earnings of $10,876. He has strategically focused his efforts on high-volume series in PokerStars LIVE Manila , recording multiple deep runs during major festivals.

His career-best score occurred in May 2024 at the PokerStars Manila Special, where he finished 3rd in the PHP 10,000 No Limit Hold’em – Manila Special event for PHP 300,000 (∼$5,230). Most recently, in November 2025, he competed at Manila Megastack 23 at the Okada Manila, finishing 10th in the PHP 20,000 No Limit Hold’em – Mystery Bounty for PHP 75,000 (∼$1,285). His consistency on the circuit is further evidenced by a 43rd-place finish in the PHP 75,000 No Limit Hold’em – WPT Main Event during WPT Philippines in 2020 for PHP 115,000 (∼$2,281).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Tanaka is part of the growing wave of Japanese players who have turned their attention to the booming poker market in the Philippines. Currently ranked 1,423rd on the Japan All Time Money List, he has consistently focused his volume on the Manila Megastack, APPT, and WPT circuits to build his professional resume. While he shares a name with a famous Japanese composer, Tanaka has carved out his own distinct presence on the live tournament circuit as a dedicated regular in the Asian poker community.

Play Style & Strategy

Tanaka is recognized for a disciplined and resilient approach to tournament poker, particularly excelling in the late stages of large-field events. His 10th-place finish in a competitive Mystery Bounty field, where he outlasted hundreds of players, indicates a strong understanding of tournament dynamics and the tactical adjustments necessary for survival in high-pressure environments. By successfully navigating the technical demands of both standard championship events and specialized bounty structures, he demonstrates a versatile strategy that allows him to exploit the diverse opponent archetypes found in the modern Asian poker circuit.

Recent Attendances