Hey, poker players! ♠️🔥
It’s 2026—and a whole new chapter begins.
What many are already calling the game-changing year of the decade is finally here. The world continues to evolve at a relentless pace, and now the pressure is on: adapt, fall behind, or lead.
This year isn’t just about bigger guarantees or louder promotions—it’s about who steps up to define the future of the industry. Will new leaders emerge? Will old giants reinvent themselves? The answers are still uncertain, but one thing is already clear:
Cebu has drawn first blood.
With a successful opening event to kick off 2026, Cebu has sent a strong message to the rest of the poker world: the game is on. Energy is building, players are hungry, and momentum is already shifting south. What started as a regional movement is fast becoming a statement—Cebu is no longer catching up; it’s setting the pace.
As the cards are shuffled and the year unfolds, expect bold moves, fresh rivalries, and defining moments that will shape the next era of poker. The question now isn’t if change is coming—
👉 Who will rise to meet it?
👉 Who will lead the industry forward?
Welcome to 2026.
The tables are open.
Let the new era begin. 🃏🔥I just
Sinulog 2026
RESULT
CHASE COKALIONG
CHAMPION – 1M PLUS SEAT 4,500 WORTH
– MICHAEL CONCEPCION
2ND Place
-maxwell ROsette
aka agent bimby
3RD PLACE
– Junnie “Rolly RULES” PAMPLON
4TH PLace
– Ahmed Waberi
5th place
Richard Sharper
6th place
– ROgelio Nicanor
-7th place
– Marc Ragis
8th place
– Peter Ang
9th place.
LAST DAY ENTRIES
10. Gabriel Tan
11. Jing Carmona
12. RaymonD Mondala
13. Harold Ruaya
14. mitja slana
15. Martin Astorga
16.
17. JRV
18. Jason Domingues
19. Kevin Mateo
20. AZL CAMPOMANES
21. Felix Cervantes.
22.
23. Jay Garife
24. Andrudin Ampatuan
25. Alex Giva
26. Joven Huaerto
METRO TEAM PRO
27. PRINCE POLIGRATES
29. CHRISTOPHER MATEO
30. BASIALIO JACALAN
31.
32. Edwin BAcolod
33.Brian MonataoS
34. GERRY FLORES
35.CZAR IAN MARCOS
36.JUDE GRANADO
37. RONDO RAL
38. BAROI.
39. WYNN JIO LAGUIDAO
40. CHRISTIAN LAVARES
A total of 273 entries were recorded without rebuys, with rebuys pushing the final count to above GTD—another successful event for Voyager Poker Club and a strong way to open 2026.
As Cebu continues to close the gap with Manila, Voyager is quietly but steadily proving that it can compete—if not outperform—several established poker rooms in the capital. The turnout alone speaks volumes, with multiple Manila-based players making the trip south to take part in the event.
Among the notable names in attendance were Czar Ian Marcos, Chris Mateo, APPT champion Bimby (Maxwell Rosete), and many others, further highlighting Cebu’s growing pull as a serious poker destination.
Cebu’s appeal has always gone beyond poker. With Sinulog, one of the biggest and most celebrated fiestas in the Philippines, the city naturally attracts players looking to combine competition with culture and celebration.
The tournament ultimately crowned Chase Cokaliong, a Cebuano, as champion. The win adds to an already impressive run, following a standout year that included:
-
₱6.6M in APT winnings
-
₱4.2M from another APT event
-
₱8.5M at Triton
The Cebu-based businessman has clearly been on a heater throughout 2025, and capturing the first major tournament in Cebu for 2026 only adds to the narrative. It’s not just a personal victory—it’s a statement win for his team and for Cebu poker as a whole.
A strong start to the year, a strong showing from local and Manila talent, and another reminder that Cebu is no longer just participating—it’s competing.
2026 is off to a great start. ♠️🔥
Was this your first Win for 2026?
Yes, first for 2026 and hopefully more to come Tons of plans for 2026 for the team and myself, looking forward to more growth and learning Team is great right now. Less stress and drama,
ANY PLANS FOR THIS YEAR?
We are just focused on learning and producing results
HOW WAS YOUR TRIP TO TRITON?
My first Triton was definitely a great experience, yes I went deep in both events (triton one main 8k 24th and triton super high roller series 25k global slam 14th). You’ll definitely see more of me there when my schedule permits.
Was there pressure to win?
No pressure, just pure fun and game theory. As long as I’ve prepared and played by best, I’m happy with that. Let what’s meant to be come.
Whats next?
You know, I can only do 2-3 short international trips a year for poker because of my schedule but for sure one of those stops will be triton and the other fixed stop would be apt championship in Taiwan. It’s hard to put on expectations but for sure I’ll strive to better myself this year, better studied/prepared and hopefully better finishes.
Any message to Poker Players?
“My message to other poker players has always been the same. Always look to improve yourself, study, prepare, have an open mind and play your best. Discipline outside of poker is just as important as the game itself.
Any plans for Cebu?
Of course I hope they’ll be bigger tournaments in cebu to develop the local talent and bring in more international players. Hopefully in the near future.
