STL still being used as ‘front’ for illegal numbers games, PCSO GM Balutan says

Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) general manager Alexander Balutan on Tuesday confirmed that Small Town Lottery (STL) is still being used as a "front" to cover for illegal numbers games.

Balutan made the statement at the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability inquiry into the alleged misuse of funds of the PCSO as well as the various charges of corruption and anomalies.

"Hindi natin tinatanggi na maaari pong ginagamit pa rin itong STL na legal ng mga nag-bookish o anumang illegal gambling," Balutan said.

STL has been established by the PCSO to provide an alternative to illegal numbers game, as well as to help in eradicating them.

It also aims to raise additional funds for the PCSO's health programs, medical assistance and services and charities of national character.

"Ang punto po natin dito is to migrate itong illegal number games to become legal so tatalunin niya itong mga illegal numbers game nationwide. Yun po ang purpose nun, to generate more funds," Balutan said.

Balutan said they have already terminated a few Authorized Agent Corporations for violating the implementing rules and regulations of the STL, some of them located in Camarines Sur, Pangasinan and Bohol.

"Nakikita natin na marami pang susunod dito. Kung sino ang naunang pumasok at naglaro posible na mapunan ang kanyang short fall. Their bond will be confiscated at sisingilin namin ang kanilang pangkukulang," he added. — RSJ, GMA News