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

Shuichi Akiba is a Japanese professional poker player who has become an active competitor in the Asian live tournament circuit, frequently appearing in major festivals across the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Shuichi Akiba’s total earnings stand at $5,310. He recently secured a notable result at the record-breaking Manila Megastack 23 held at PokerStars LIVE Manila in December 2025. In this series, he finished 26th in the PHP 15,000 No Limit Hold’em – Sunday Millions event, navigating a competitive field to secure another addition to his tournament resume.

Akiba is a regular participant in the Manila Megastack series, where he consistently competes against a mix of local Filipino talent and international regulars. His performance in multi-day events in Manila has solidified his reputation as a steady grinder within the Southeast Asian poker scene.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Akiba is part of a wave of Japanese players who have looked toward the Philippines and other Asian hubs to build their professional careers. He has spent much of the 2025 season traveling between major stops in the region, focusing on tours like the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and various PokerStars LIVE events in Manila. His trajectory highlights a commitment to the live arena, where he has successfully transitioned his skills to handle the high-volume environment of large-field Asian festivals.

Play Style & Strategy

Akiba is known for a patient and disciplined tournament strategy, which is well-suited for the deep-stack structures found in the Manila Megastack series. His ability to reach the deep stages of significant regional events suggests a strong proficiency in bubble dynamics and the technical requirements of mid-to-late stage tournament play. He typically employs a calculated approach, favoring high-value spots in No Limit Hold’em formats, a tactic that has allowed him to remain a consistent threat at final tables across the circuit.

Recent Attendances