Lacson: PCSO donates funds to the impoverished
By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

During a recent interview, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed surprise in response to President Rodrigo Duterte’s decision to suspend all gaming activities conducted by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). In a video message shared on social media, citing alleged “massive corruption,” Duterte ordered the PCSO to cease operations while an investigation is conducted.
The governor said he had not heard of such anomalies or corruption and insisted the government agency utilizes its earnings to provide funding for the impoverished. He noted, those dependent on PCSO to provide medication will be especially hurt by the president’s move.
The suspension forced lottery, Peryahan ng Bayan, and keno operations shut down.
Last May, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) shut down five Peryahan ng Bayan branches over allegations of illegal gambling.
According to Atty. Renoir Baldovino, who heads the NBI office in Bacolod City, search warrants were issued against branches in Murcia, EB Magalona, Hinigaran, Himamaylan City, and Victorias City.
In response to the president’s order, the Bacolod City Police Office and the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office immediately posted closure signage at various PCSO outlets./DGB, WDJ