What happened
Orbigo clinched the Gold Pass on Dec. 22, 2025 after topping a 4 a.m. online satellite tournament on PokerStars, the world’s largest poker site. He outlasted a competitive field of more than 640 players from around the globe.
Why it matters
In a press release, Orbigo said the $10,300 PokerStars Gold Pass grants him entry to the EPT Paris Main Event, which begins Feb. 23, with a hefty €5,300 buy-in. PokerStars officials believe he is very likely the first Filipino to qualify for an EPT Main Event using a Gold Pass.
What makes it remarkable
Orbigo didn’t buy directly into the satellite. He first received a $55 Step 4 ticket through a lucky raffle entry from the PokerStars Snowball Challenge — turning chance into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
What PokerStars says
“To our memories, you are the first, and we can’t recall any other Filipino playing an EPT after using a Gold Pass,” the PokerStars Live Team said via email, adding that while not “100 percent sure,” it is “very likely.”
Who he is
Orbigo is a BS Chemistry and MBA graduate from Ateneo de Manila University and works as a PR and marketing consultant, primarily for property development firms. He is currently processing a Schengen visa for his unexpected European trip.
His poker background
Though considered an amateur, Orbigo has notched several wins in No-Limit Hold’em and Pot-Limit Omaha tournaments at Metro Poker Club and PokerStars Live Manila at the former City of Dreams Manila venue.
What’s next
He plans to hire a poker coach and a mental coach to prepare for the grueling seven-day EPT Main Event, where the 2024 Paris champion earned over €1.2 million.
The challenge
While the Gold Pass covers the main buy-in and select perks, it does not include airfare. Orbigo’s team is now seeking sponsors and partners to help fund the campaign.
What he’s saying
“I hope to continue waving the Philippine flag in Paris or Monte Carlo,” Orbigo said. “I need all the support and good luck I can get — and I hope that lucky raffle entry keeps working wonders.” — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
