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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider PCSO hosts prestigious APLA 2025 Conference in the Philippines

PCSO hosts prestigious APLA 2025 Conference in the Philippines

Philippines affirms regional leadership in responsible gaming, innovation

Published Oct 26, 2025 07:12 pm
The Philippines has once again taken the spotlight in the regional lottery and gaming industry as the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) hosts the Asia Pacific Lottery Association (APLA) Conference 2025 in Manila from October 28 to 31, gathering key lottery leaders and experts to discuss the future of gaming under the theme “The Future of Lotteries: Thriving in an Era of Uncertainty.”
The high-level conference brings together delegates, policymakers, and innovators from across the Asia Pacific to examine the evolving role of lotteries amid rapid technological change, market uncertainties, and the growing call for responsible gaming.
PCSO General Manager, Melquiades A. Robles.
PCSO General Manager, Melquiades A. Robles.
PCSO General Manager Melquiades A. Robles said the country’s hosting of APLA 2025 highlights renewed international confidence in the integrity, transparency, and leadership of the Philippine lottery system.
“The Philippines’ hosting of APLA 2025 is a testament to the global trust placed in the PCSO and in the integrity of our lottery operations,” Robles said.
“This event allows us to share our experiences, learn from our regional partners, and work together to ensure the lottery sector thrives responsibly in an era of uncertainty,” he added.
Under Robles’ leadership, the PCSO continues to strengthen its standing as a trusted gaming institution. The agency’s Responsible Gaming Level 2 certification, along with its pursuit of Level 3 accreditation, reflects its adherence to global standards of ethical play and accountability. Robles’ recent election to the APLA Executive Committee also affirms the growing international trust in Philippine leadership within the global lottery community.
The conference features an impressive lineup of international speakers, including Australian author and innovation coach Nils Vesk, who will open the event with “Thriving in Uncertain Environments.” Other sessions include “The Lottery Organization of the Next Decade” by Stéphane Pallez, CEO of FDJ United; “The Illegal Betting Ecosystem: Insight and Understanding” by Robert Chvátal, CEO of Allwyn Group; and “New Tech, AI, and Cybersecurity” by a leading European industry expert.
Beyond responsible gaming, APLA 2025 delves into digital transformation, sustainability, and collaborative governance—issues defining the future of the global lottery sector.
By hosting APLA 2025, the Philippines positions itself as a regional hub for responsible gaming and innovation, reaffirming its growing role in shaping the industry’s future across the Asia Pacific.
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