HEXAPRIME Incorporated’s legal counsel, Atty. Del Bert John Barsaga, reiterated the company’s claim as the authorized small-town lottery (STL) operator in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental during a press conference Wednesday.

Barsaga emphasized that Hexaprime, having held a permit to operate STL from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), is entrusted with conducting lottery operations in the designated area.

He underscored their commitment to reporting any activities they deem illegal to both the local police and the PCSO, as such activities could adversely affect their authorized lottery operations.

“As the authorized lotto agent of PCSO, it is our obligation to report any illegal STL operation within our area of operation to PCSO,” Barsaga asserted.

Hexaprime’s permit to operate was granted on October 17, 2023, and, according to Barsaga, the initial three months proceeded without any issues.

However, recent challenges emerged with the discovery of booths operating independently of Hexaprime.

AUTHORIZED. Hexaprime Inc. Legal Counsel Del Bert John Barsaga Wednesday said that they will continue to report to PCSO and PNP illegal STL operation that has no permit coming from the PCSO. Hexaprime has asserted that they are the authorized lotto agent here in Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental. Photo by Shiela Mae Butlig

Barsaga questioned the legitimacy of Diamond Millenium Corporation (DMC), despite acknowledging their possession of a Status Quo Ante Order from the Supreme Court.

He pointed out that DMC has not provided permits from the PCSO, rendering their operation potentially illegal.

Encouraging bettors to wager only through authorized lotto agents, Barsaga highlighted that a portion of their sales contributes to PCSO for charitable works.

Meanwhile, State Prosecutor, Atty. Merlyn Uy, emphasized the importance of presenting a valid permit to operate.

Uy clarified that without proper authorization from the PCSO, any operation would be considered illegal.

In response to recent raids on DMC’s lotto outlets, the legal team of DMC cited the status quo ante order issued by the Supreme Court on January 8, 2024.

The order directed respondents, including PCSO General Manager Mequaides Robles, not to implement the letter dated July 12, 2023, unilaterally terminating DMC’s authority to operate STL in Cagayan de Oro City and the province of Misamis Oriental.