The schedule for the 2009 Asian Poker Tour has been announced by the tournament’s organizers, with Manila being billed as the first stop.

The $2500 buy in event will take place at the Dusit Thani Manila Hotel in the Philippine capital from January 27th to February 1st, and the organizers say that a further four poker events will be scheduled around Asian cities.

“After consultation with players, online partners and sponsors a comprehensive schedule is now being planned for 2009 to successfully meet the needs of all concerned. We are looking forward to enhancing poker's presence in Asia,” said Chris Parker, the Chief Executive Officer for the Asian Poker Tour.

Players are being encouraged to contact their favorite poker rooms to find out more about schedules for feeding satellites to Asia’s most exciting poker tournament.