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

James Bonanno is a professional poker player from Guam who has established himself as a consistent competitor in the Asian poker circuit, particularly within the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, James Bonanno has accumulated total live earnings of $97,544. His most significant career achievement occurred in April 2016 at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Manila, where he navigated a tough field in the $3,300 Main Event to finish in 3rd place for a career-best score of $54,200.

Bonanno has demonstrated longevity in the region, with results spanning nearly a decade. He has consistently cashed in major festivals held in Manila, including the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) . In February 2019, he secured a podium finish at the PPPoker Festival World Championship in Manila, taking 3rd place in a freezeout event for ₱103,500 (∼$1,991).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Guam, Bonanno is one of the few prominent players from the island territory to make a mark on the international scene. He focuses his volume almost exclusively on the thriving poker market in the Philippines, making him a familiar face at venues like Newport World Resorts and Okada Manila.

His background is that of a dedicated regional grinder who transitions between mid-stakes side events and major championship tournaments. While he resides in Guam, his poker career is deeply rooted in the Manila circuit, where he competes against both local regulars and traveling international pros.

Play Style & Strategy

Bonanno’s results suggest a preference for No Limit Hold’em tournaments with a mix of structures. He has found success in “Monster Stack” and “Deep Stack” formats, such as his 11th place finish in the APT Philippines Monster Stack in 2022, indicating a patience for deep-structured play. However, he is also capable of adjusting to faster paces, evidenced by final table appearances in Turbo events. This adaptability allows him to maintain a high volume of play during festivals, entering diverse events ranging from charity tournaments to high-pressure Main Events.

Recent Attendances