PCSO earns global accreditation, cements world-class status
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has secured a Level 3 Accreditation for the Responsible Gaming Framework from the World Lottery Association (WLA), the first such recognition in the Philippine gaming industry.
The certification, awarded in January 2026, marks the agency’s transition from Level 2 to Level 3, signifying a shift from setting goals and visions to implementing global best practices in responsible gaming.
According to PCSO, the accreditation ensures that all its games are supported by dedicated budgets and concrete resources aimed at integrity, player protection and ethical operations. The agency added that all its lottery draws are ISO-certified, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accuracy and internationally recognized quality standards.
The WLA is the global authority on lottery governance, representing over 150 state-authorized lotteries from more than 80 countries. To attain Level 3 accreditation, an agency must pass a rigorous audit conducted by an Independent Assessment Panel of international experts.
With the recognition, PCSO joins lottery operators in countries such as the United States, Italy, Bulgaria, France, Turkey, Brazil and Argentina that have achieved the same level of accreditation.
The milestone follows another recognition for the agency.
In December 2025, the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) named PCSO the top Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC) in the country, citing a record performance rating of 100.63 percent.
The GCG said the ranking was based on PCSO’s transparency, revenue growth and social programs, including the distribution of Patient Transport Vehicles to cities and municipalities, medical assistance initiatives, disaster and emergency relief operations, medical equipment donations and partnerships with non-government organizations.
PCSO General Manager Melquiades Robles was also recognized as one of three Leadership Award finalists by the GCG during its annual awards.
“This international certification is more than just a plaque on the wall. It is a testament to our solid commitment to the Filipino people,” Robles said.
“Being named the top GOCC in the country and now gaining Level 3 WLA accreditation shows that we are serious about combining heart-led public service with world-class professional standards,” he added.
