The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) held its much-anticipated Agents Summit with the theme “Beyond the Jackpot: A Commitment to Responsible Gaming” at the newly inaugurated Foro de Intramuros, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. The event gathered approximately 430 Lotto and 79 Small Town Lottery (STL) agents from across the country.
In his opening remarks, PCSO General Manager Mel Robles emphasized the vital role of agents in promoting ethical gaming practices.
“As our valued agents, you are not only operators—you are advocates,” said GM Robles. “Your role in promoting responsible gaming and protecting players from exploitative practices is crucial. Together, we must preserve the integrity of our games and shield the public from illegal operators who prey on vulnerability and misinformation.”
He also outlined PCSO’s efforts toward digital transformation, including modernized remittance systems, enhanced cybersecurity measures, and alignment with global standards—initiatives that are all aimed at strengthening operational efficiency and public trust.
“Ultimately, every bet placed through our legal channels contributes to a higher purpose: funding lives, saving lives,” he added.
Featured Speakers
The summit featured distinguished guests and experts who tackled critical topics on responsible gaming and the fight against illegal gambling:
• Police Major General Nicolas D. Torres III, Chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), discussed “Beyond Regulation: The Role of Responsible Gaming in Stopping Illegal Gambling.”
• Undersecretary Gilbert Cruz of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) addressed the “Challenges on the Proliferation of Illegal Gambling Activities.”
• Ms. Fe Celebrado, Division Chief of the Product Standard Development Division (PSDD), gave an in-depth look into “Responsible Gaming Practices: Ensuring Fair Play and Social Responsibility.”
• Department Manager May Cerelles of the Information Technology and Services Department presented PCSO’s advancements in “Digital Information of PCSO Lottery.”
• Donald Limcaco of DFNN introduced “Lottomatik: A New Betting Platform, Revolutionizing Your Lottery Experience.”
Open Dialogue and Collaboration
A Q&A session followed, allowing agents to directly raise concerns and suggestions to key PCSO leaders. The panel included Chairperson Felix Reyes, GM Mel Robles, Police Major General Torres III, and Usec. Gilbert Cruz.
In the latter part of the program, a Panel Discussion and Networking Session was held, led by GM Robles, Atty. Lyssa Grace Pagano (AGM for Gaming Product Development and Management Sector), and Remeliza Jovita Gabuyo (AGM for Branch Operations Sector).
The session emphasized the importance of continued partnership, operational innovation, and unified efforts toward responsible gaming.
The summit reaffirmed PCSO’s vision of a transparent and socially responsible gaming environment—where agents are empowered not only as business partners but also as champions of public trust and nation-building.
