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: 2026.01.03

Kristine Flores is a Filipino professional poker player who has quickly emerged as a standout talent in the Asian poker circuit, widely recognized for her impressive runner-up finish in the inaugural APT Women’s Championship. Known for her transition from competitive chess to the poker tables, she is considered one of the rising female stars in the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, her total live earnings stand at $23,869. Her career-best score of PHP 370,000 (∼$6,480) came in August 2025 at the Philippine Poker Millions (PPM) , where she finished 15th in a massive field of over 40 players remaining on the final day. Flores also made significant waves in February 2025 at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Manila Classic, securing 2nd place in the Women’s Championship for PHP 268,000 (∼$4,610). In August 2025, she added another podium finish to her resume, taking 2nd place in a No Limit Hold’em event at the Metro Card Club in Manila for PHP 234,000 (∼$4,087).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Laguna, Philippines, Flores brought a high-level competitive background to poker as a former varsity chess team captain for Ateneo de Manila University. A gold medalist in the UAAP chess scene, she developed the mental discipline and strategic thinking that would later fuel her poker career. She made her mark on the local live scene at venues like the Metro Card Club before expanding to international festivals such as the APT. Her transition to poker was marked by immediate success, outlasting hundreds of opponents in major local events like the Philippine Poker Millions.

Play Style & Strategy

Flores is known for a highly analytical and patient tournament strategy, a trait she carries over from her years as a competitive chess player. Her ability to navigate deep into large, male-dominated fields, such as the 2025 PPM Main Event, demonstrates strong ICM awareness and resilience under pressure. In the APT Women’s Championship, she displayed a calculated approach that allowed her to battle through a field of international regulars to reach the heads-up stage. Her background in solving complex puzzles and endgame scenarios in chess has translated into a technical proficiency that makes her a formidable opponent in No Limit Hold’em.

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