Elevator, 5-km cable wire stolen from PCSO

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) is investigating the disappearance of an old elevator and five kilometers of cable wire during its transfer from its old office at the Quezon Institute (QI) building to the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, an official said yesterday.

PCSO board secretary Eduardo Araullo told The STAR that chairwoman Margarita Juico ordered a probe after receiving reports that massive looting took place from November to December last year while they were moving to their new office.

He said their legal team found out “an old elevator, including its motor, and at least five kilometers of cable wire remain unaccounted.” The two items were estimated to cost at least P5 million.

Araullo said they are verifying reports that looters and some PCSO personnel used an acetylene torch to dismantle the elevator and a cargo truck to haul the loot.

He added that some security personnel are also being questioned about a logbook that disappeared during the transfer.

The PCSO began moving out from the QI building, declared unsafe by the Department of Public Works and Highways, in November and completed the transfer on Dec. 28.

Araullo said they have a list of officials who may be held responsible for the missing items. “We will file charges as soon as we will complete our investigation,” he said.