Manila: Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) General Manager Melquiades Robles has been elected as the vice chair of the Asia Pacific Lottery Association (APLA), marking a significant milestone as the first Filipino to attain this leadership role within the regional lottery organization.
According to Philippines News Agency, Robles' election took place during the 2026 APLA General Assembly, which was held from September 1 to 4 in Seoul, South Korea. Robles will serve a two-year term until 2028, further establishing the Philippines as a key player in the international lottery sector.
Robles expressed that his appointment is not only a personal honor but also a recognition of the Philippines and the impactful work being carried out by PCSO. He emphasized the intention to bolster regional cooperation, promote responsible gaming, and leverage lottery revenues for community development through his position.
The election of Robles to this prestigious role affords PCSO and the Philippines an amplified platform to engage in dialogues concerning responsible gaming, technological advancements, lottery security, and the ethical deployment of lottery-generated funds for societal benefits. Robles highlighted the dual role of lotteries in generating revenue and ensuring these resources are directed towards healthcare, social services, and programs that enhance quality of life.
This achievement provides PCSO with increased opportunities to learn from global best practices and share its unique experience as a government lottery body with a strong charitable focus. Under Robles' leadership, PCSO has progressed from Level 1 to Level 3 accreditation under the World Lottery Association's Responsible Gaming Framework within a remarkable three-year period.
In 2024, Robles was the first Filipino to be elected to the APLA Executive Committee during the association's Regional Conference in Hanoi, Vietnam. His recent elevation to vice chair reflects the growing respect for the transparency and integrity of the Philippines and PCSO among lottery organizations in the Asia-Pacific region, showcasing the nation's commitment to ethical and responsible lottery operations.
Founded in 2000, APLA is part of the World Lottery Association's regional associations. It serves as a platform for lottery operators and industry partners in the Asia-Pacific region to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and address common issues affecting the global lottery industry. The association currently includes 21 full members from 12 countries and 26 associate members from 13 countries across Asia, Europe, and North America.
