PCSO test runs e-Lotto

In a press conference held at the Richmonde Hotel in Ortigas, Pasig City, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office has officially announced the commencement of the E-Lotto test run on 15 December 2023.

PCSO General Manager Melquiades A. Robles took charge of the press conference, accompanied by Pacific Online System Corporation President Mr. Jackson T. Ongpin. Also present were PCSO Consultant Atty. Ruth Maureen Rillon, PCSO Manager for Product and Standard Development Department, Ms. Laila D. Galang, and PCSO OIC —Department Manager for Information Technology Services Department, Ms. May V. Cerelles.

GM Robles highlighted the objective of the digital version of the Lotto, saying, "the digital version of the Lotto aims to provide enhanced safety and convenience for bettors by offering secure and easily accessible services to eligible players not only in the Philippines but also around the globe. Even foreigners and overseas Filipino workers can now register and play provided that they present a valid Philippine government ID and utilize a Philippine SIM card."

"E-lotto has the potential to attract a larger number of bettors due to its convenient and user-friendly betting process. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to a significant boost in the revenue of the agency, ultimately leading to an increase in the charity fund," added GM Robles.

The press conference was well-attended by various media outlets in the country, including ABS-CBN, DZBB, Radyo Veritas, Daily Tribune, Inquirer, Manila Standard, Philstar, and several others. TV news anchor Ms. Cheryl Cosim personally attended the press conference to show support of the opening of the test run of E-lotto.

As of present time, the payment method utilized by E-lotto is through GCash. However, it is worth noting that in the near future, PCSO plans to expand its payment options to include various other e-payment methods.

Further, the E-lotto app by PCSO is set to be launched on both iOS and Google Play platforms next year.

Players have the opportunity to access and register to E-lotto by visiting the official website of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office at www.pcso.gov.ph. This can also be done by scanning the provided QR code found in E-Lotto print ads and following the necessary steps to complete the registration process.

The PCSO is the principal agency responsible for raising and providing funds for various charity programs of the governments through the conduct of sweepstakes and lotteries, among others.

Bawat Taya, May Kawanggawa!