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: 2026.01.02

Raphael Bulaong is a professional poker player from the Philippines who has established himself as a prominent figure in the local and regional Asian poker scene. Known for his frequent deep runs in major festivals across Manila and beyond, he has become a regular fixture at prestigious events such as the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) and various championship series at the Metro Card Club.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Raphael Bulaong has amassed total live earnings of $67,888. He currently holds the 160th position on the Philippines All Time Money List.

His career-best live score came in December 2023 at the Metro Card Club in Pasig City, where he secured a victory in a No Limit Hold’em event for PHP 1,220,000 (∼$22,056). Bulaong followed this with a highly successful 2025 season, including a 16th-place finish in the Philippine Poker Millions Main Event for PHP 370,000 (∼$6,547) and multiple deep runs at APPT Manila. Notably, in July 2025, he finished 3rd in the Metro Walk to a Million (MWAM) for PHP 232,500 (∼$4,138). His consistency across tours like the APPT, AJPC Samurai Circuit, and Manila Super Series has solidified his reputation as a formidable mid-stakes competitor.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from and currently residing in the Philippines, Bulaong has built his career almost entirely within the burgeoning poker hubs of Manila and Pasig City. He transitioned from a local grinder to a recognized tournament threat, often competing against the country’s elite pros at venues like Okada Manila and City of Dreams. His breakout year in 2023 set the stage for a prolific 2024 and 2025, where he demonstrated his ability to navigate massive domestic fields, such as the 1,216-entry MWAM Main Event, where he entered the final day as the chip leader.

Play Style & Strategy

Bulaong is recognized for a resilient and opportunistic play style, particularly noted for his ability to stage dramatic comebacks. During the MWAM Main Event in 2025, he rose from one of the shortest stacks in the field to bag the overall lead heading into the final 18, demonstrating exceptional patience and stack-leveraging skills. While primarily a No Limit Hold’em specialist, he has also shown versatility by recording final table finishes in Pot Limit Omaha Hi/Lo events. His strategy often centers on outlasting massive fields through strong ICM awareness and a calculated approach to high-pressure late-game situations.

Recent Attendances