WHEN leadership is competent and anchored in genuine skill and heart, the result is nothing less than the collective success of those it serves—and that is precisely how Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Mel Robles – a long-time and real friend – can be described.
And fresh from Sydney, Australia, the PCSO has just earned international recognition for its commitment to using lottery revenues to support public welfare and charitable causes, with the World Lottery Association holding up Philippine lotteries as a global model for responsible gaming.
WLA President Andreas Kötter described Philippine lotteries as an outstanding example of responsible gaming and fundraising for good causes during the ongoing World Lottery Summit 2026.
“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, GM Robles said.
Through its lottery operations, the agency channels gaming revenues into programs that provide financial assistance to individuals and communities in need.
Elected vice chairman of the Asia Pacific Lottery Association in September 2026, Robles welcomed the recognition, saying it reflected 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,” the PCSO chief said.
“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,” he added.
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.
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.
