Puerto Rico's electronic lottery celebrates its 35th anniversary with a series of celebratory events across cities on the island, thanking the public for their long-term support and showcasing its contributions to socio-economic development. The celebrations, sponsored by the Puerto Rico Lottery Bureau, include traditional, entertainment, and live lottery draws, allowing the public to experience the fun of the lottery through interaction.
The anniversary celebrations will continue from July 2025 to November. Assistant Deputy Minister Heidi Hernandez Olivo stated that the events will cover public squares in five cities, with the first event held on July 18 at Las Delicias Square and the Bombas Park historical site in Ponce. On the day of the event, WIPR TV broadcasted live from 11 AM to 3 PM, featuring the El Mediodía TV show. A live performance by Puerto Rican artist Oscarito added a festive atmosphere to the event. The tour will then move to Aguada on August 15, to Naranjito Square on September 19, and to Fajardo on October 10, all featuring live lottery draws, music performances, and community interaction activities.
The climax of the celebration will take place on November 8 on Princess Avenue in Old San Juan. The closing ceremony will feature live lottery draws, music performances, and a wealth of family activities, highlighting the lottery's core position in Puerto Rican society. Olivo stated that the event is not only to thank citizens for their support but also an important measure to ensure the transparency and openness of lottery operations.
Over the past 35 years, the electronic lottery has played a significant role in funding public services and community projects. In the last fiscal year, the lottery raised over $122 million, which was used in areas such as healthcare, education, sports, senior services, and municipal assistance. Olivo pointed out that public support allows the lottery to have a real impact on residents' lives and committed to continuing to offer new experiences while maintaining transparency.
To achieve modernized operations, the Lottery Bureau introduced the PlayCentral terminal, now covering 105 locations across the island, providing consumers with a convenient channel to purchase lottery tickets. Olivo emphasized that combining traditional draws with new technology is part of a long-term strategy aimed at meeting the evolving needs of consumers while preserving the cultural and community value of the lottery.
For 35 years, Puerto Rico's electronic lottery has not only carried entertainment and nostalgia but also become an important driver of the economy and public services, allowing players to enjoy the fun of the game while contributing to the island's development.
