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PCSO strengthens drive against illegal betting, pushes for responsible and transparent gaming

Published Oct 30, 2025 09:47 pm
PCSO intensifies campaign against illegal betting, promoting responsible gaming, transparency, and stronger public trust in legal lottery operations. (PCSO / MB Visual Content Group)
PCSO intensifies campaign against illegal betting, promoting responsible gaming, transparency, and stronger public trust in legal lottery operations. (PCSO / MB Visual Content Group)
The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is intensifying its campaign against illegal betting in the country while reaffirming its commitment to responsible gaming, transparency, and public welfare.
In a press conference held at the City of Dreams Manila on October 29, PCSO General Manager Melquiades A. Robles underscored the importance of discipline among lottery players, emphasizing that while PCSO games fund critical charity programs, participation must always be guided by moderation and responsibility.
“Illegal betting remains a challenge in the Philippines, but we see it as an opportunity to strengthen our systems and reaffirm our commitment to transparency and responsible gaming,” Robles said. “Every peso lost to illegal operators is a peso that does not go to hospitals, medical assistance, or many of our charity programs,” he added.
Strengthening responsible gaming standards
Robles announced that PCSO has achieved Level 2 Certification in responsible gaming standards from the World Lottery Association (WLA)—a milestone that reflects the agency’s adherence to international best practices.
He added that PCSO is now working toward securing Level 3 Certification, which will further demonstrate its compliance with the highest standards of accountability and player protection.
“These efforts are all aimed at protecting the Filipino public, ensuring fairness in gaming, and securing more funds for the nation’s health and welfare,” Robles said.
Three-pronged approach against illegal betting
To combat the spread of illegal betting, PCSO is implementing a three-pronged strategy focused on enforcement, modernization, and public awareness.
“This approach ensures PCSO is not only protecting revenues but also building a safer, more transparent gaming environment for Filipinos,” Robles explained.
He emphasized that legal PCSO games are regulated, transparent, and accountable, with proceeds directly funding hospitals, medical assistance, and community programs.
In contrast, illegal betting offers “none of these protections” and “contributes nothing to the public good.”
“By choosing PCSO games, Filipinos are not just playing responsibly — they are also helping hospitals and community programs,” Robles said. “Every ticket purchase is an act of solidarity with our communities,” he added.
Global challenge, local reform
Allwyn Group Chief Executive Officer Robert Chvátal noted that illegal betting is a global, multi-billion-dollar issue often linked to organized crime. It undermines legitimate operators, deprives governments of tax revenues, and exposes players to fraud.
However, he said, many countries have successfully transformed the fight against illegal betting into a catalyst for reform—adopting stronger regulations, modern technologies, and public education campaigns to build trust in legal gaming operators.
“The key is not only to stop illegal betting but to make regulated games the most trusted and appealing option for consumers,” Chvátal said.
He encouraged PCSO to adapt global best practices while leveraging its strong social mandate. “By investing in modernization, increasing transparency, and educating the public, PCSO can continue to strengthen its position as the country’s legitimate and trusted gaming operator,” he added.
Commitment to nation-building
Both Robles and Chvátal emphasized that the success of PCSO’s programs depends on public trust and participation in legal, responsible gaming.
COMBATING ILLEGAL BETTING. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Melquiades A. Robles (right) and Allwyn Group CEO Robert Chvátal emphasize the importance of responsible gaming during the 2025 Asia-Pacific Lottery Association (APLA) Conference held at City of Dreams Manila. (John Louie Abrina / Manila Bulletin)
COMBATING ILLEGAL BETTING. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Melquiades A. Robles (right) and Allwyn Group CEO Robert Chvátal emphasize the importance of responsible gaming during the 2025 Asia-Pacific Lottery Association (APLA) Conference held at City of Dreams Manila. (John Louie Abrina / Manila Bulletin)
“Illegal betting harms individuals and deprives our country of much-needed support for health and welfare programs,” Robles said. “When Filipinos choose PCSO, they are choosing transparency, safety, and a commitment to nation-building,” he added.
The Philippines, through PCSO, is hosting the Asia-Pacific Lottery Association (APLA) Conference 2025 in Manila from October 28 to 31.
With the theme “The Future of Lotteries: Thriving in an Era of Uncertainty,” the four-day event brings together top lottery officials, policymakers, and industry experts from across the region.
The conference also explores how lotteries can adapt to technological innovation, shifting market dynamics, and rising public expectations for transparency and responsible gaming. 
RELATED STORY: 
https://mb.com.ph/2025/10/29/pcso-underscores-responsible-gaming-play-safe-play-fun-and-within-your-means

Related Tags

Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office PCSO illegal betting in the Philippines responsible gaming Melquiades Robles World Lottery Association legal lottery
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