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: 2025.12.18

Itsuki Chiba is a Japanese professional poker player who has quickly established a strong presence on the Asian-Pacific poker circuit, particularly excelling in the high-volume tournament scenes of the Philippines and Taiwan. Widely recognized as a consistent deep-runner, he has become a regular fixture in premier series such as the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and Manila Megastack.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Itsuki Chiba has total live earnings of $22,695. His career reached new heights in late 2024 and throughout 2025, with a string of significant scores in Manila. His career-best live cash was recorded in October 2024 at the APPT Manila Championship, where he finished 3rd in the Mystery Bounty for PHP 271,000 (~$4,652).

In late 2025, Chiba continued his momentum at the Manila Megastack 23 festival at Okada Manila, finishing 36th in the Main Event for PHP 130,000 (~$2,209). Earlier that year, he showcased his versatility in Malaysia, securing 19th place in the Poker Dream 19 Malaysia Open for RM 13,400 (~$3,171). He also demonstrated strong final table capabilities in specialized formats, including a 3rd-place finish in the APPT Manila Super Knockout Turbo for PHP 89,136 (~$1,536).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Chiba has successfully transitioned from regional Japanese events like the All Japan Poker Championship (AJPC) to becoming a prominent international traveler. He is particularly active in the Philippines, frequently competing at PokerStars LIVE Manila, where he has built a reputation for navigating large, diverse fields. His rise in 2025 saw him significantly boost his Global Poker Index (GPI) standing as he expanded his reach to major festivals in Cambodia and Taiwan, including the Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT).

Play Style & Strategy

Chiba is known for a highly tactical and aggressive tournament style, particularly excelling in bounty and knockout formats where stack leverage is critical. His consistent success in “Super Knockout” and “Mystery Bounty” events suggests a strategy that effectively balances aggressive bounty hunting with sound fundamental survival. He has also proven his ability to handle the deep structures of major flagship events, as evidenced by his deep run in the record-breaking Manila Megastack 23 Main Event, where he outlasted hundreds of players through disciplined post-flop play and calculated risk-taking.

Recent Attendances