Lotto sales surge amid PCSO's higher minimum jackpot prizes

The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) has logged a 38.3 percent year-on-year increase in ticket sales following its implementation of higher minimum jackpot and consolation prizes for its lotto games.

In a statement on Monday, the PCSO said total lotto sales from February 1 to 7, 2026 reached P413,827,025.00, up from P299,172,920.00 during the same period in 2025.

The agency said the higher lotto ticket sales followed the rollout of the higher minimum jackpot prizes, signaling Filipinos’ sustained interest in lotto games under the enhanced prize structure.

It added that the number of sold lotto tickets rose by 10.7 percent year-on-year during the same period.

The PCSO attributed the sustained growth to the improved value proposition of lotto games, as players now compete for significantly higher prizes and benefit from the progressive jackpot system when prizes are not immediately won.

“The strong year-on-year growth in lotto sales shows that higher minimum jackpots resonate with the public. By offering bigger prizes right from the start, we are making lotto games more exciting and rewarding while ensuring the system remains fair, transparent, and sustainable,” said PCSO general manager Melquiades Robles.

“Higher sales also mean a high degree of confidence by the betting public in the Philippine lottery system,” he added.

The PCSO began implementing higher minimum jackpot and consolation prizes for its lotto games – as well as higher ticket prices – on February 1. 

All jackpot-bearing game tickets now cost P25 from the previous P20.

The PCSO also upgraded the jackpot and consolation prices for lotto games as part of its efforts to modernize the lotto system and align it with internationally-accepted gaming practices.

Robles said Filipinos’ increased participation directly supports the PCSO’s mandate to fund health, medical, and social welfare programs nationwide.

“Higher participation means more resources for medical assistance and other social services that benefit Filipinos in need,” he said.

He also urged the betting public not to patronize illegal gambling to avoid being defrauded and to help the government sustain its social service programs. — JMA, GMA Integrated News