Solaire Cares charity event kicks off WPT Phl tourney

MANILA, Philippines - On the eve of the much awaited Main Event wherein hundreds of competitors from across the globe are expected to see action, the first ever World Poker Tour (WPT) National Philippines kicks the ongoing festivities into high gear with the Solaire Cares charity event followed by the traditional players’ party at the Solaire Resort and Casino in Parañaque City.

A bulk of the WPT official delegation, led by legendary poker commentator Mike Sexton, heartthrob Tony Dunst and the alluring Royal Flush Girls arrive today as well as a phalanx of international campaigners to battle for the millions at stake in the Main Event.

Already in town are poker pros Daniel “Jungleman” Cates – one of the hottest young poker millionaires in the world – and the “Poker Barbie” Lacey Jones.

But before the serious business of winning a championship ensues, a host of local celebrities will join aficionados in a fundraising endeavor for Solaire Cares by virtue of a charity tournament.

Among those who have already confirmed are Azkals stalwarts Aly Borromeo and Anton del Rosario, broadcaster TJ Manotoc, veteran comedian Gary Lising and decorated actor Philip Salvador who is fresh off his stint as a captain’s pick in the Philippine team that competed in the inaugural WPT-Solar Sports Nations Challenge.

Malaysia ousted the home team and went on to upset Korea in the finale to claim the title.

The Solaire Cares charity tournament will be the curtain-raiser for the players’ party wherein the combatants for the Main Event will have their last cordial affair before plunging into battle on the felt.

Iconic rock group Brisom will be the entertainment higlight at the shindig which will take place at the posh Eclipse Club. Brisom frontman Brian Sombero – himself an accomplished poker player – will also be playing the charity event before wowing the crowd with an anticipated knockout performance.

Also on tap is the High Roller Event, where the buy-in is US$25,000 and the Retro Event – sponsored by Retro 105.9 DCGFM – wherein participants 50 years old and above will be locking horns.

Day1A of the WPT Main Event begins on Thursday, Oct. 23 and a number of last chance satellites are still running at the competition venue, the Solaire Grand Ballroom for entry into the US$2,200 event.

Almost one hundred seats to the Main Event have already been won through these satellites and many Filipinos are among the field of participants.

The Main Event runs until Monday, Oct. 27, with the Final Table to be streamed live on the WPT’s official website.