MANILA — A Catholic prelate on Monday supported the order of President Rodrigo Duterte to close down all gaming activities of Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) due to “massive corruption”.
“It is very inspiring and encouraging decision of the president to cancel, stop Lotto outlets. All are winners, better future is secured, and morality is upheld,” said Bishop Ruperto Santos, head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines–Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI), in a statement.
“Gambling is vice, an addiction that will only lead to crime and corruption,” he added.
At the same time, Santos is praying and hoping that Duterte will stand firm with his decision to stop gambling.
“We pray and hope that the President will remain steadfast to stop lotto, and continue to eradicate any form of gambling in our country,” the Bataan bishop said.
Meanwhile, Santos noted that the Church is ready to help those who are in need particularly the less fortunate.
“The Church is always there, always available for the poor. Her preferential option is for those who have not, who have less,” he said in an interview.
“With stoppage of Lotto is a challenge for the Church to do more for the poor, inspiration for her to be more ready to help, to assist our people especially the needy and the poor,” he added.
The PCSO is mandated to provide funds for health programs, medical assistance and services, and charities of national character.
Aside from Lotto, a popular numbers game in the country, the agency also operates Peryahan ng Bayan, small town lottery, and Keno.
The Catholic Church has always been against any form of gambling. (PNA)
