Aquino eyes taxing lotto winnings

MANILA, Philippines—President Aquino has asked the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office to draft a bill on its proposal to levy a 20-percent tax on lottery winnings.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said PCSO chairperson Margie Juico made the proposal after a “balikbayan” (Philippine returnee) from the US won the Grand Lotto jackpot of P750 million some months ago.

Lacierda said the winner’s pot was actually taxed abroad.

“The President asked that they submit a draft proposal so he can look at it,” Lacierda said.

Lacierda would not say if Malacañang backed the PCSO’s proposal.