Takayama, Lubas lead Team Philippines in WPT-Solar Sports Nations Challenge

Mike Takayama

The Filipino contingent for the inaugural National Challenge, presented by Solar Sports, has been finally revealed.

Reigning Asian Poker Tour (APT) champion Mike Takayama and Gerardo "Jay" Lubas will lead the squad that is skippered by Wally Sombrero.

The former billiards pro Takayama is considered as the hottest tournament player in the country, and has already netted the 2014 APT Macau Six-Max tournament.

The imposing Lubas is best remembered as the two-day overall chip leader in the 2012 World Series of Poker Main Event. He also finished second, behind Takayama, in the 2014 APT Manila Main Event.

The other members of Team Philippines are online phenom Mark Benasa, 2012 Philippine Poker Tour Player of the Year Martin Corpus, APT Head-Hunter titlist Jay Tolon, APT Cebu Heads-Up king Stephen Gaw, and the three Rivera brothers (Czardy, Marc, and Euryd).

Sombrero referred to this group as a "good mix," although it is missing a couple of well-known names in poker circles, as both Neil Arce and Vic de Guzman have begged off due to commitment issues. In the latter's case, he also serves as part of the organizing committee.

Teams from China, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia are expected to oppose the Filipinos, with the possibility that Australia, the United States, and Vietnam might field their own respective squads to contest in the team event.

The Nations Challenge kicks off the WPT National-Philippines this Saturday at the Grand Ballroom of the Solaire Resort and Casino in Parañaque City. It coincides with the Solaire Cares charity tournament, with local celebrities and international pros like Lacey Jones participating to raise funds for charity.