The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has earned international recognition for its commitment to using lottery revenues to support public welfare and charitable causes.
Speaking on the sidelines, World Lottery Association (WLA) President Andreas Kötter described Philippine lotteries as an outstanding example of responsible gaming and raising funds for good causes.
Kotter made the remarks during the ongoing World Lottery Summit (WLS) 2026 in Sydney, Australia, during which he described Philippine lotteries as an example of how the industry can generate funds for good causes while maintaining its social responsibility.
“First of all, the Philippine lotteries are a perfect example of doing good, raising money for good causes, and having a profile as a lottery which is outstanding,” Kötter said.
The recognition reinforces PCSO’s fulfillment of its mandate to generate funds for medical assistance, healthcare programs, and other charitable services benefiting Filipinos nationwide.
Through its lottery operations, the agency channels gaming revenues into programs that provide financial assistance to individuals and communities in need.
PCSO General Manager Melquiades A. Robles, who was elected Vice Chairman of the Asia Pacific Lottery Association (APLA) in September 2026, welcomed the recognition, saying it reflects the agency’s continuing commitment to ensuring that lottery operations serve a greater public purpose.
“For PCSO, the true measure of success is not simply how much revenue we generate, but how many Filipinos we are able to help.”
“Every peso that goes toward our charitable programs represents an opportunity to provide medical assistance, support communities, and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” Robles said.
Kötter also expressed appreciation for the strong Philippine participation in the summit, noting that it demonstrated the country’s commitment to the international lottery community.
“I’m so happy that so many Filipinos came over to Sydney. That really shows the commitment of the lottery of the Philippines to the system, and also to WLA,” he pointed out.
He recalled the WLA Executive Committee’s previous visit to Manila, where members experienced the country’s hospitality and witnessed the importance of lotteries to Filipinos.
The World Lottery Summit, taking place at the International Convention Centre Sydney from November 9 to 12, brings together lottery leaders and stakeholders from around the world to discuss responsible gaming, industry innovation, and the role of lotteries in supporting society.
