The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has confirmed the authenticity of a widely circulated photo depicting a Lotto 6/42 jackpot winner. The image, which underwent editing to obscure the winner’s identity, sparked controversy due to its apparent poor quality. The winner, a 47-year-old housewife from San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, secured a substantial prize of over P43 million on December 28, 2023.
During a Senate Committee on Ways and Means hearing, PCSO General Manager Melquiades ‘Mel’ Robles addressed inquiries from Senator Raffy Tulfo regarding the photo’s legitimacy. Robles emphasized the PCSO’s commitment to safeguarding the privacy of lottery winners. He recounted a previous incident where, despite concealing the winner’s face, the individual’s clothing was recognized, leading to a complaint. This incident prompted the PCSO to take additional measures to hide identifying details.
Robles candidly acknowledged the subpar quality of the photo’s editing but stressed that the primary goal was to protect the winner’s identity, specifically by concealing clothing that could lead to recognition. He assured that the photo represented a real individual and extended apologies for the editing shortcomings.
The discussion occurred in the context of a broader debate led by Senator Tulfo, focusing on Senate Bill No. 2374.