LGU permit not needed for PCSO games – DOJ

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) does need to secure permits from local government units (LGUs) for its gaming operations, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ).

In a two-page legal opinion released recently, the DOJ said while Sections 447 and 458 of the Local Government Code of 1991 give LGUs the power to regulate businesses within their respective territories, that power could not be exercised over the national government, its agencies and instrumentalities.

“Its duly appointed sales agents are… mere extensions of the PCSO, and should, like the PCSO, be also considered exempt from the licensing authority of the LGUs where they operate,” the DOJ legal opinion stated.  

Negros Occidental Assistant City Legal Officer Bimbo Lavides sought the legal opinion as he raised the issue on whether the Bingo Milyonaryo (BM) can operate without a mayor’s or business permit.

Lavides also asked the DOJ for the remedies the city may avail itselfof if it does not want the BM to operate within its jurisdiction.

BM, a lottery-like game run by the PCSO, has become controversial amid allegations that it is being used as a front for illegal number games like jueteng and masiao.