Lotteries have long been a favorite form of gambling in various countries including Laos. Unlike traditional forms, which involve betting against the house, lotteries rely solely on chance. People in the philippines can often win big just by purchasing lottery tickets – although their legality has raised debate in Canada and elsewhere around the world.
A woman who was raised in an orphanage during the turbulent 1960s and ’70s plans to give part of the $55 million lottery jackpot she and her husband won to those responsible. Xia Rattanakone, 44, from Seattle will also use her winnings for college education expenses for her three daughters as well as travel. Born in Vientiane in 1959 but arriving with her family four years later at age four. Both she and Sommay plan to leave their respective jobs (Xia at Seattle Public Schools; temporary worker at Nintendo of America respectively) in order to spend more time with their daughters.
Recently, allegations of fraud and irregularities relating to the national lottery have raised serious doubts as to its legitimacy. To combat these allegations, the government instituted a new law mandating dealers report any suspicious transactions immediately; additionally it changed from three weekly drawings to once weekly drawings; furthermore prizes will be reduced by up to 60%.
The new lottery rules take effect on October 1st; however, some observers feel it comes too late; many people have lost trust in the lottery and may turn instead to other forms of gambling such as casinos and online gaming.
Private business interests play an active role in Laos’ lottery operation and they do not always follow rules, according to RFA’s Ounkeo Souksavanh. For instance, winning numbers associated with buffaloes–a symbol of good luck–are sometimes changed without notice; such was the case when number 134 (which represents good fortune in Laos) was announced as being announced the winner during one drawing, only for it be changed an hour later to 662 instead.
Still, lottery is an integral source of state revenue in Laos and contributes to thousands of families’ welfare, so government officials must uphold its integrity as much as possible, according to Minister Phan Xay. Recently, lottery ticket sales in the country have seen an upswing, with 20 billion Kip expected in ticket sales by this year; marking its first milestone milestone since 2004!