PCSO invites senators to observe Lotto processes

MANILA – The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on Tuesday said lawmakers are welcome to observe its processes of holding lotteries.

In a statement, PCSO general manager Mel Robles said they are confident of their integrity of their lottery processes, noting that the best way to erase any doubts about the integrity of results is for the senators to see for themselves how the draws are conducted.

“The PCSO for the past 89 years has kept its integrity beyond question. And we are committed to following that unsullied reputation," Robles said.

He also said senators can hold an unannounced inspection to remove any doubt about the integrity of the lottery operations.

In a letter dated Jan. 22, Robles invited the lawmakers “to witness the entire lotto draw process – from the pre-draw preparations to the actual draw itself, for any lotto draw on any day, even without prior notice” in the interest of transparency.

The letter was addressed to Senate Committee on Games and Amusement chairperson, Senator Manuel Lapid, vice chairpersons Senators

Christopher ‘Bong’Go, and Raffy Tulfo, as well as committee members Senators JV Ejercito Jr., Francis ‘Chiz’Escudero, Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., Francis Tolentino, and Risa Hontiveros.

“In the event that you choose to send a representative, we simply ask for official written authorization for him or her. We are committed to openness and accountability in the conduct of all our lottery activities. We believe that fostering transparency in the lotto draw process is crucial in maintaining public trust and confidence in the integrity of our operations,” Robles said.

Last week, the state lottery agency drew flak from netizens for using an edited photo of a bettor claiming her PHP43 million prize from the Lotto 6/ 42 draw, which became the subject of a recent Senate hearing.

Robles, during the Jan. 18 hearing, said this was done to protect the identity of the winner.

This prompted senators to raise questions on whether the recent jackpot winners of the Lotto games are merely bettors and are not connected to the PCSO. (PNA)