Cebu’s Hidden Gems: A Conversation with Johnix

In the late afternoon haze, we sat down with one of Cebu’s quiet grinders—Johnix—a name you may not hear shouted across poker halls just yet, but one that’s steadily building a reputation among those who’ve been paying attention.

We asked him about his poker journey—where it all began, and how he got to where he is today.

How did you start playing poker?

“It was back in 2006. My barkada, Dexter Solon, was celebrating his birthday and invited me and some of our friends over. That night, he taught us the basics of poker—and from then on, I fell in love with the game. We ended up playing every week at Dexter’s house.”

Like many, Johnix started casually, playing home games with friends. But his love for the game eventually turned into something more serious.

Were you self-taught, or did you have a mentor?

“When I started taking poker seriously, I was mostly self-taught. I watched videos, joined poker forums like 2+2, played online on PokerStars and Full Tilt, and went deep into tutorials. Then in 2008, something amazing happened—the founder of Asia Poker Academy read Dexter’s poker blog. When they visited Cebu, they offered to coach us.”

“In 2024, I had a two-week coaching session with Coach David Spade, which really helped me level up. But after that, I went back to self-study. I believe every game is a learning process, and I always try to grow from each session I play.”

Johnix’s story is one of quiet persistence. No spotlight. No shortcuts. Just a steady climb, built on passion, study, and experience.

And with Cebu’s poker scene growing stronger every month, players like Johnix—diamonds still being polished—may soon be impossible to ignore.

As our conversation with Johnix continued, it became even clearer that this was a player with both feet firmly planted on the felt—but eyes still set on something far bigger.

What’s your greatest dream as a poker player?

“My greatest dream is to win a major title—like the WSOP, WPT, EPT, APPT, or APT. Especially the Main Event. That’s the ultimate goal.”

It’s a dream shared by many, but what separates Johnix is how methodically and quietly he’s been working toward it—not with flash, but with dedication.

Which poker room do you like the most, and why?

“For tournaments, I really like Voyager Poker Room. They offer a solid structure, especially during their 500K to 5M guaranteed events, and even higher. The pacing, levels, and overall experience—they get it right.”
“As for cash games, I like to explore. I’ve played at Voyager, Blue Sapphire (Waterfront Lahug), Nustar, and Poker8. I enjoy trying different rooms and seeing how each environment feels.”

Johnix is a grinder in the truest sense—someone who immerses himself in the game from every angle.

Do you have a day job?

“No, I don’t. Poker is my day job.”

And with every hand played, every lesson learned, and every table faced—he’s working full-time on his dream.

He may not yet have the spotlight of a champion, but make no mistake: Johnix is a player to watch.
Quiet. Focused. And just getting started.

xs our conversation with Johnix went deeper, we moved beyond the surface of hands played and tournaments won. We wanted to know the person behind the player—and what poker has taught him about life.

What’s the best skill you’ve learned from poker that you apply to your daily life?

“Observation and analysis of the situation. Knowing how to react, solve problems, and adapt. Along with that—discipline and patience. Those qualities are just as valuable off the felt as they are on it.”

It’s no surprise. His game is calm, methodical, and built around awareness—not just of cards, but of people and situations.

Do you have a poker idol?

“Yes! Stu Ungar.”

A fitting choice. The late Stu Ungar was known not only for his unmatched talent, but his intensity and deep love for the game—something Johnix clearly shares.

What’s been your most memorable game this year?

“Actually, since May and continuing into this month, I’ve been actively playing more tournaments. That’s why I’ve been at Voyager a lot—they’re the only room in Cebu that consistently runs high-volume tournaments.”
“Last month, I finished 6th in the Mini Chase Cup 1M GTD, and during the Chase Cup 3M GTD Main Event, I cashed for a good amount. Just recently, I placed 2nd in the IVP Cup 2.5M GTD. It’s been an exciting run.”

These aren’t just results—they’re the milestones of a player hitting his stride.

Who would you like to compete against, and why?

“It would be great to compete with Phil Ivey—haha! But honestly, playing against high-caliber poker players or big names in poker would really help me improve.”

That hunger to grow, to be tested—that’s what sets grinders apart from champions-in-the-making.

What advice would you give to aspiring poker players?

“Poker in Cebu is evolving fast. A lot of players still stick to home games, and to them I say—go out, explore the poker rooms. There’s so much more to learn and enjoy.”
“For those starting out in poker rooms: keep striving. Stay disciplined. Be patient. And most importantly, be strict with your bankroll management—that’s what makes the biggest difference in the long run.”

Johnix isn’t just another name on a tournament list.
He’s part of Cebu’s new generation—a player rooted in old-school grit, but walking his own path in a modern game.

Quiet, consistent, and rising—you’ll be seeing more of him soon.