
By Gabriela Baron
A 63-year-old widow from Davao del Sur took home over P35 million Lotto jackpot, the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) announced.
She correctly guessed the winning combination of 34-24-02-06-33-07 drawn on Jan. 17.
In an interview with PCSO, the winner said she has never worked in her life because she needs to take care for her family, including her grandchildren.
Her only source of income is his late husband’s Social Security System pension.
“Ngayon ko lamang po tinayaan ang kumbinasyon ng mga numero na ito,” she said.
“Ako po ay nagpapasalamat una sa Panginoon sa biyayang ipinagkaloob sa akin at sa aking buong pamilya. Sa PCSO, maraming salamat at sana po ay marami pa kayong matulungang mga tao na umaasa sa inyo,” she added.
Under the Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, a 20% tax will automatically be deducted from the jackpot prize.
Meanwhile, Lotto winners should claim their prizes within one year from the date of draw, otherwise the same would be forfeited to form part of PCSO Charity Fund.
The PCSO also reminded winners to secure their tickets and write their name and signature at the back.
“It must not be wrinkled, folded, or even have a single tear on it. The bar code must not be damaged, as it is an essential component of the ticket for validation. The lotto terminal should be able to read the barcode,” it added.