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: 2025.12.12

Hiroaki Terasaka is a Japanese professional poker player known for his consistent performances in the Asian tournament circuit, particularly in the Philippines and Taiwan. He is recognized as a formidable competitor in both freezeout and turbo formats, regularly making deep runs in major festivals like the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Hiroaki Terasaka has amassed $43,130 in total live earnings. His career trajectory shows a steady climb in the Asian poker scene, with significant results contributing to his bankroll.

His standout performance occurred at the APT Taipei 2025, where he finished 3rd in the NL Hold’em Freezeout event. This deep run secured him his career-best live cash of TWD 540,000 ($16,667). Additionally, he has demonstrated consistency in the Philippines, with notable finishes such as a 3rd place in the Manila Megastack 23, earning ₱40,000 ($680). These results highlight his ability to navigate large fields and capitalize on final table opportunities.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Hiroaki Terasaka has established himself as a regular fixture in the Asian poker community. Unlike players who focus solely on one region, Terasaka embraces the “nomad” lifestyle of a tournament grinder, frequently traveling between Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines to compete.

He built his reputation through a series of consistent cashes in regional tours, including the All Japan Poker Championship (AJPC) and the Asian Poker Tour (APT). His background suggests a transition from local Japanese events to the broader international stage, where he now competes against some of the region’s top talent.

Play Style & Strategy

Terasaka is known for a versatile play style that adapts well to the varying structures of Asian tournaments. His results in events ranging from Hyper Turbos to standard Freezeouts suggest a strong understanding of stack depth and ICM pressure.

He often employs a solid, calculated approach in the early stages, shifting to a more aggressive gear as the bubble approaches. This adaptability allows him to survive the high-variance nature of turbo events while maintaining the patience required for deeper structures. His ability to consistently reach the podium in diverse formats marks him as a well-rounded and dangerous opponent on the circuit.