PCSO lotto personnel lack computer skills

The computer operations of the multibillion-peso on-line lotto of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office have been dependent on a private gaming corporation because the agency does not have enough computers and its personnel lack the technical skills to operate the lotto games efficiently, according to a PCSO audit report.

In addition, a PCSO source said the lotto games – the 6/42, the mega lotto or the 6/45, the 6/49, four digit and the six digit – which are being managed by the Philippine Gaming Management Corp. (PGMC), often break down because of the lack of technical skills of PCSO personnel.

"Apparently, with the PGMC taking charge of lotto operations, the PCSO has not initiated career development programs for on-line lotto personnel," the source said.

The STAR tried to contact Kenny S.P. Low, vice president for operations of the PGMC, but the gaming executive declined to grant an interview.

"We do not entertain media interviews," Low said.

An audit report by the PCSO’s official publication Sweepstakes Today revealed last year that lotto operations do not have enough manpower to handle training, inspection, licensing and other technical activities.

"Technically, the lotto personnel possess inadequate computer proficiency. In addition, frequent communications breakdown are experienced as a result of insufficiency of computer equipment and related materials," the report said.

It also said most of the members of the staff of the PCSO on-line operations are unfamiliar with the goals of the agency and have not undergone career training to enhance their skills. – Perseus Echeminada