Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 30) — The spokesperson of President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday said a written order to stop all Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) gaming operations is not forthcoming because his verbal order is already legally binding.
“Hindi kailangan. The directive of the President, even if verbal, is legal,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a media briefing. “It’s legal. If it’s legal, you don’t have to put (it) down in writing.”
The legality of President Duterte’s verbal order to stop PCSO-licensed games was earlier questioned by lawmakers and legal experts. Cagayan de Oro City 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez said Duterte’s order on July 26 is illegal and unconstitutional, as it deprives franchise holders and operators of their right to due process. He urged franchise holders and operators of lotto and other games licensed by the PCSO to challenge the order in court.
Panelo defended his boss, saying the closure of over 30,000 lotto, Small Town Lottery (STL), Keno, and Peryahan ng Bayan outlets does not violate due process.
“It (PCSO) is a creation of the Office of the President. If it’s a creation of the Office of the President, the President can do that,” he said.
Duterte’s spokesperson said the President is thoroughly investigating the alleged massive corruption in the agency after recently-appointed PCSO General Manager Royina Garma asked for his help to cleanse it. Panelo said Duterte will fire corrupt PCSO officials and will name them in public.
“The President, in due time, will tell the Filipino people of what and how this conspiracy has been in operation for so many years,” he said.
