Joshua Chargualaf's Run To Remember in Manila

Joshua Chargualaf had one of the most memorable poker runs of his career. At the recently concluded PokerStars Manila Super Series at Okada Manila, Chargualaf lifted two titles and closed with a Main Event runner-up finish. In a brief interview, the Guam native reflected on his breakout performance and his enduring passion for the game.

My run for this series was amazing! I couldn’t ask for a better start. Winning the Warm-Up event allowed me to gain confidence as I was eyeing my first spadie for years. It also allowed me to fly my father out from Guam to support me throughout the rest of the series.

[Chargualaf opened the series with a victory at the Warm Up event, outlasting a field of 246 entries. He followed it up with another title at the Super Knockout, keeping his head intact over the 49 entries. To cap off his series, Chargualaf finished second at the Main Event out of a field of 958 runners.]

According to Chargualaf, that momentum was built on more than cards alone. He credits his success to a renewed focus and a deeper sense of purpose at the table.

First and foremost I owe it all to the man above. With God anything is possible. Also my immediate family and friends for their continuous love and support. Entering the year and specifically this series I came in more focused and level headed. I was able to take it one hand at a time. Even when I had only 6 BB entering Day 2 of the Main I felt confident I was still able to come back.

Chargualaf's runner-up finish in the Main Event produced a career-best score of $32,000 — a result that carried deep personal meaning.

Personally it was a weight lifted off my shoulders because it has been a few years since I’ve achieved this score. Professionally it allows me to gain confidence in future events and for bankroll.

While falling just short of a potential triple crown, Chargualaf remained grateful for the overall experience.

Winning the two side events felt great and although coming second place in the Main was disappointing, I am still grateful and blessed for the opportunity, I was still able to receive two APPT Main Event Seats and 6 nights at Okada Manila in July of this year.

What aspects of your game have improved the most over the years?

Recently I’ve became more patient and calculated in terms of bet sizing and positioning. Whereas before I was always aggressive. The most thing I’ve improved was my mindset. Remembering that I’m doing what I ‘love’ to do! I also try to avoid all in situations as much as I can.

I felt a lot of players being passive at certain stages of the tournament. I was also fortunate to pick up a lot of live tells along the way. Overall the competition is always top notch when you're playing at PokerStars. 

You regularly fly in from Guam to play in the Philippines. What keeps bringing you back to the Manila poker scene?

Actually the Philippines is the only venue I’ve played so far in my poker career. It’s a 3.5 hour flight from Guam and the flight/ hotel is relatively cheap too. But most of all I enjoy the hospitality from the locals. The dealers and staff are always friendly and on top of their game.

Philippines has everything Guam doesn’t in regards to professional poker facilities and tournaments. Therefore I always make my way back. 

Over the years I feel I've made a name for myself which allowed me to gain confidence in my ability to play. Also making new friends with the locals and foreigners made the experience the greatest a poker player can ask for.

How did your poker journey begin?

I’ve been playing poker since I was a kid! It was a family tradition to get together on weekends and play small cash/ tournament. I finally made my way to Manila in 2012 where I played my first professional tournament at the Asian Poker Tour held at Resorts World Manila.

What do you enjoy most about tournament poker?

I love that you can achieve your dreams if you work hard at it! It also gives me a place to meet new people and exchange poker/ life experiences. 

Who were your biggest influences or mentors in poker and what keeps you motivated?

God is my biggest mentor/influencer. With him anything is possible. But my parents David and Alene Chargualaf/ Brother David Jr./ Sister Nasha Barcinas and Husband Edward Barcinas and their kids Abby, Ava, Solomon give me all the motivation and influence to keep striving for greatness! 'Love you guys!"

I truly love the game. How it brings people together all over the world for the game we love and enjoy. I’m so honored to be representing my island. Most especially, I love seeing my family and friends happy with me representing Guam.

*All photos by PokerStars