The Philippine lottery is run by the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), not by PAGCOR. This guide explains how the main lotto games work, what the odds look like, how prizes are taxed and claimed, and how lotto differs from online casino games.
- PCSO lotto is government-run and regulated by PCSO. PAGCOR-licensed casinos do not sell PCSO tickets.
- The minimum age for PCSO lotto is 18, which differs from the 21+ rule for online casinos.
- Lotto odds are fixed by the game format. No number choice or system changes them.
How PCSO lotto works
In Lotto 6/42, you pick six numbers from 1 to 42 or use Lucky Pick. A play costs ₱20, which includes a 20% documentary stamp tax. Draws are on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 9:00 PM. UltraLotto 6/58 asks for six numbers from 1 to 58, also costs ₱20, and draws on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 9:00 PM. PCSO publishes draws on its official channels.
| Lotto 6/42 prize | Match | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| Jackpot | 6 of 6 | Starts at ₱5,940,000 and grows until won |
| 2nd | 5 of 6 | ₱24,000 |
| 3rd | 4 of 6 | ₱800 |
| 4th | 3 of 6 | ₱20 |
PCSO lists the 6/42 jackpot odds at 1 in 5,245,786. Prize amounts and jackpots can change, so check PCSO’s official game pages for current figures.
Taxes and claiming prizes
Prizes above ₱10,000 are subject to a 20% tax under the TRAIN Law. PCSO’s 6/42 page lists where to claim:
- ₱20 to ₱10,000: any authorized lotto outlet or PCSO branch office
- ₱10,001 to ₱300,000: PCSO branch offices or the main office
- ₱300,001 and above: the PCSO main office
Sign your ticket and keep it safe. Only buy through authorized PCSO outlets or PCSO’s official channels.
Online lotto and unauthorized sites
PCSO began a test run of its e-Lotto in December 2023. [Compliance to confirm the current status of PCSO e-Lotto and any restrictions on online lotto betting, including proposals raised in the Senate in January 2024, as of the publish date.] A site or app that takes bets on PCSO draw results without PCSO authorization is not a PCSO product and is not a PAGCOR-licensed casino. Check what PAGCOR licensing means for players and our guide to how to tell if an online casino is legit.
Lotto versus online casino games
Lotto outcomes are random draws with fixed odds and a ticket price. Online casino games, such as slots and live dealer tables, are regulated by PAGCOR for players aged 21 and above, and each has its own house edge. See how online slots work for an example.
Play responsibly
Lotto is gambling too. Set a weekly budget, never use money meant for bills, and read our guide to responsible gambling. For free, confidential support, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at (02) 8248-9568 or the PAGCOR helpline at (02) 8527-9831. More information: PAGCOR responsible gaming.
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FAQ
Is the lottery legal in the Philippines?
Yes, PCSO lotto games are government-run and legal, but PCSO regulates them rather than PAGCOR, and they are separate from online casino games. Buy only from authorized outlets or PCSO’s official channels, and be cautious of any app promising guaranteed results or special access.
How old do you have to be to play lotto?
PCSO requires players to be at least 18 to buy tickets or claim prizes, which is lower than the 21+ limit for PAGCOR-licensed online casinos. Always check PCSO’s current rules before you buy, and remember that the 21+ rule applies if you play online casino games instead.
Are lotto winnings taxed in the Philippines?
Prizes above ₱10,000 are subject to a 20% tax under the TRAIN Law, while the ₱20 ticket price already includes a 20% documentary stamp tax. Check PCSO for the current rules on your prize before you claim, and keep your ticket and a valid ID with you.
