e Philippines have been affected badly by the pandemic. On March 15, 2020, The president of the Philippines ordered a lockdown to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Poker rooms and houses closed their doors, and until now, the status of when live poker can return safely remains uncertain.

How are the local players doing? What have they been up to. We continue to reach out to them to update players on how they are right now.

Today we would be featuring Gerardo Lubas who we once featured.

Gerardo Lubas

Gerardo Lubas can be considered a young gun in the poker scene. He has not played that long compared to other regular grinders.

However, he slowly carved a name for himself winning great events.

One of the last international events held in Manila before the lockdown was the Red Dragon event. Gerardo Lubas had a great performance but finishing only at 5th place. Still, he bag more than 50,000 USD (2,700,000 PHP)

It was a good start to the year. but then the lockdown forced all poker rooms to closed down.

During the lockdown

We sat down with Gerardo Lubas and ask him a few questions. 

How did you spend your time during the lockdown?

At first, because it was only starting and everyone was scared. The first few months. I just stayed at home. We have a very close family and we have elderly people at home who we love so much. so we avoided huge crowds and only visited each other during that time. Of course, we still try to go out and help people who were suffering from lockdown. but the first few months was very strict.

How were you after the lockdown ease down?

Well, of course since we were hesitant because the number was still going up. but we need to start moving as well. First, I tried some online stuff and other things. I was playing mobile games but I was still focused on finding something stable. I am thankful to God because I am blessed that is why if I can share my blessing to people. I would gladly do it. 

Did you do anything else during the lockdown?

I was watching videos and reading books to improve my game even more. Even if I can not play live. The pandemic will pass and poker games will return soon. That is why I should remain positive. 

Do you miss playing poker?

Yes, I do, but live poker may not yet come back anytime soon. There are many underground poker rooms but I do not want to take the risk. I love my parents and I do not want them to get sick. I am slowly adjusting to playing online. but I miss live poker most of all.

What will be the next for Gerardo Lubas once the vaccine is available?

I am really excited to play live legally. although I am not sure when that will happen. but staying positive is important. Poker will be back so during this time that it is not allowed yet, we should remain positive and study. 

Any message for poker players out there?

Just always be thankful to the Lord, God is always there for us even if we do not see him. Love your family and if you want to play poker take this time to study the game more.