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

Rafael Medel is a Filipino professional poker player who has become a rising figure in the local Southeast Asian circuit, widely recognized for his high-volume participation and consistent cashes in major Manila-based festivals such as the APPT and Philippine Poker Millions.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $5,777. His career-best cash of PHP 157,000 (∼$2,749) was achieved in August 2025 at the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Manila, where he secured an 11th place finish in the PHP 30,000 Mini Main Event (Event #92). Medel has been exceptionally active throughout 2025, recording numerous deep runs at premier Filipino venues. Notable results include a 15th place finish in the APPT Manila Championship Megastack for PHP 25,000 (∼$430) and a 114th place finish in the Philippine Poker Millions 50 Million Guaranteed Main Event for PHP 85,000 (∼$1,489). Earlier in the year, he also demonstrated his resilience by finishing 6th in a Nustar Poker Club Summer Series event in Cebu.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from the Philippines, Medel has established himself as a disciplined grinder within the thriving Manila poker community. He is currently ranked 657th on the Philippines All Time Money List and has steadily climbed the global rankings through a high frequency of local tournament appearances. His trajectory is marked by a consistent presence at major stops in Pasig City, Cebu, and Manila, representing the growing depth of local talent in the region. In late 2025, his consistent performance earned him a career-high Global Poker Index (GPI) ranking within the top 33,000 players worldwide.

Play Style & Strategy

Medel is known for an adaptable and resilient tournament strategy, often excelling in the high-pressure dynamics of “Megastack” and “Mini Main Event” formats. His ability to navigate massive fields, evidenced by his deep runs in the APPT and Philippine Poker Millions, both of which feature over 1,000 entries, demonstrates strong situational awareness and patience. Whether he is competing in a high-leverage No Limit Hold’em flip or managing a chip stack through the late stages of a multi-day championship, his tactical adjustments to the aggressive local play style make him a formidable threat at any final table in the Asian market.

Recent Attendances