Michael concepcion

CHAMPION 1 MIllion Pesos

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GIAN BOISER

2nd place – PHP 500,000

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harold ruaya

3rd place – PHP 250,000

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CHris Mateo

4th place – PHP 200,000

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jisoo

5th place – PHP 140,000

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Melchor “jrv” vasquez

6th place – PHP 100,000

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Ben sanico 

7th place – PHP 77,000

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John Matsuda

8th place – PHP 65,000

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Michael Cheng

9th place – PHP 55,000

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JISOO

CHIP LEADER – 2,000,080

The Lone Korean: Fueled by Determination

Among the final table contenders of the Chase Cup 2025, one stands out — the lone Korean warrior, a player defined by grit, perseverance, and unwavering focus.

After grinding cash games until 4 AM, he was still up and back at the tables by 2 PM, ready to chase his tournament dream. He fought through Day 1A, 1B, and 1C, refusing to give up until he finally punched his ticket to Day 2.

His eyes said it all — he came here to win. And now, after all the effort and relentless determination, he sits atop the Day 2 chip counts, poised for a run at the title.

Will this story of persistence end in victory?
Stay tuned — a champion might just be born today.

MICHAEL CONCEPCION

CHIP LEADER – 2,000,060

Last year’s MPC Champion is back—with his sights set on another trophy to add to an already impressive collection.

Branded by many in Manila as “an animal” on the felt, he’s a double threat—dangerous in both cash games and tournaments. But you wouldn’t know it at first glance. With a calm, composed demeanor, he blends into any environment like a chameleon. Quiet. Unassuming. Under the radar.

Then suddenly—you see it.
His chip stack grows, hand after hand, like there’s no tomorrow.
Before you know it, he’s one of the most feared players at the table.

Will he bring home the bacon this time and solidify his legacy?
Don’t blink. You might miss the moment he takes over.

GIAN BOISER

1,700,00

GIAN BOISER

1,695,000

The Young Gun Steps Into the Arena

As early as last week, we saw something special in this young man—raw potential, solid fundamentals, and a quiet confidence that hinted at greatness. And Gian has not disappointed.

Now, he steps into what might be the toughest final table Cebu has ever seen—a true cage of animals, filled with seasoned sharks and relentless grinders.

Gian represents the new wave of Cebu poker, a generation that rose after the pandemic—hungry, disciplined, and ready to learn. Regardless of the outcome, this moment will shape him. The experience gained here is priceless, and it will elevate his game to new heights.

One thing’s for sure—win or lose, Gian is no longer just a promise. He’s a presence.

John Matsuda

1,148,000

The Prodigal Son Returns

John Matsuda is more than just a name in Cebu poker—he’s the prodigal son, the one who left, soared, stumbled, and now returns, stronger than ever.

His journey began on the humble felts of Cebu, where raw talent met early ambition. He took that fire to Manila, where the lights were brighter, the stakes higher, and the competition fierce. Under the tutelage of none other than the king himself—Mike Takayama, John was shaping up to be one of the next big names in Philippine poker.

But as the story often goes, the nightlife of Manila took its toll. The grind gave way to temptation. John disappeared from the headlines, stepping away from the felt to rediscover who he truly was.

And then, he came home.

Back in Cebu, with the quiet strength of a man who’s been through the fire, he rebuilt. With the support of those who never gave up on him—including the one who always helped others chase their dreams—John began to climb again. From small cashes to earning a seat at the World Series of Poker, his comeback was no fluke.

Now, he returns to defend the land where it all began. With wisdom from his past, fire in his heart, and Cebu behind him, can the prodigal son rise as a hometown hero once more? Stay tuned.

Melchor ” JRV” Vasques

1,100,000

JRV – The Silent Threat

JRV stands as one of the younger old guards of Cebu poker—a player who bridges the gap between generations and commands respect from both sides. Known for his calm demeanor and courteous nature, JRV has become a quiet favorite among the community. He’s not just a local name—he’s already proven himself on the international stage, with wins outside the Philippines that speak volumes about his experience and skill.

While he may not enter the final table with the biggest stack, or the loudest presence, he is undeniably a threat. JRV plays with poise, patience, and precision—waiting for just a single mistake to turn the tables in his favor. Underestimating him would be a grave error.

Can this crowd favorite rise to the top when it matters most? Don’t blink—because when JRV makes his move, it could be the one that defines the final table.

Harolf ruaya

1,100,075

Harold Ruaya has been in the game for years. A familiar face at the felt, he’s traveled and battled it out in Manila, and has notched several victories along the way. Yet, for all his accomplishments, that one defining, breakthrough win still eludes him.

He’s the wild card of the final table—experienced, unpredictable, and capable of going on a heater at any moment. His journey has been long, his grind relentless, and now he’s back in the spotlight with a shot at changing his narrative.

Is this the moment Harold finally breaks through and claims the title he’s long chased? Stay tuned—because if the cards fall right, this wild card could become the champion.

Ben sanico

710,000

Ben Sanico – The Silent Riser

Ben Sanico has been one of the steady grinders in the Cebu poker scene. No spotlight, no loud entrances—just consistent, disciplined play. Over time, he’s been quietly climbing the ladder, earning respect from the local community with each tournament he joins.

Now, he’s made it to one of the biggest final tables Cebu has ever seen. The question remains: Is this Ben’s breakout moment?

He’s shown he has what it takes to get here—but can he take it all the way and make a name for himself on the national stage?

Stay tuned. A new star might just be born.