Photos: Ericson Delos Reyes
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) reinforced its support to national development by turning over ₱34,153,865.03 in mandatory contributions to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) during a ceremonial turnover held on December 15, 2025, at the PCSO Main Office.
Led by PCSO General Manager Melquiades “Mel” Robles, the turnover highlighted PCSO’s vital role in supporting government programs through revenues generated from its lottery operations, in strict compliance with existing laws.
Augmenting the sports sector, PCSO provided ₱672,905.33 in mandatory contributions to the PSC, as received by PSC OIC–Deputy Executive Director for Finance Dr. Christopher Gacutan.
The contribution was made pursuant to Republic Act No. 6847, which mandates PCSO to allocate a portion of its lottery revenues to support institutions such as the PSC. Through this partnership, PCSO continues to promote sports development and provide meaningful support to Filipino athletes and youth nationwide.
In supporting education, PCSO turned over ₱22,950,308.30 to CHED as part of its mandatory contribution to the Higher Education Development Fund. The funds were personally handed over by GM Robles to CHED Project Evaluation Officer Ms. Carolyne Patayan and Technical Staff Ms. Jamie Sese, who attended the turnover ceremony.
This contribution was in accordance with Republic Act No. 7722, which requires PCSO to remit one percent (1%) of its gross lottery sales to CHED to support and fund educational programs. The allocation reflected PCSO’s continued recognition of education as a cornerstone of national progress and its commitment to strengthening the country’s higher education sector.
In strengthening the fight against illegal drugs, PCSO likewise turned over ₱10,530,651.40 to the DDB, with the check formally received by Assistant Secretary Ferdaussi Masnar. The contribution was made in compliance with Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which requires PCSO to remit 10 percent of all unclaimed and forfeited sweepstakes and lotto prizes, with a minimum of ₱12 million annually, to the DDB.
The funds will support the government’s anti-illegal drugs initiatives, including drug prevention, education, treatment, and rehabilitation programs, reinforcing PCSO’s role in promoting public health and safety.
Through these contributions, the PCSO continues to extend support to other government agencies in advancing shared programs, while upholding transparency and accountability, ensuring that every peso generated from its gaming operations directly benefits the Filipino people.
