Revised Penal Code · Gambling and Betting

Article 196

Importation, sale and possession of lottery tickets or advertisements

Unamended since 1930

Current text, as of October 15, 2026

The penalty of arresto mayor in its maximum period to prision correccional in its minimum period or a fine ranging from 200 to 2,000 pesos, or both, in the discretion of the court, shall be imposed upon any person who shall import into the Philippine Islands from any foreign place or port any lottery ticket or advertisement or, in connivance with the importer, shall sell or distribute the same.

Any person who shall knowingly and with intent to use them, have in his possession lottery tickets or advertisements, or shall sell or distribute the same without connivance with the importer of the same, shall be punished by arresto menor, or a fine not exceeding 200 pesos, or both, in the discretion of the court.

The possession of any lottery ticket or advertisement shall be prima facie evidence of an intent to sell, distribute or use the same in the Philippine Islands.

Consolidated by Alleba from the 1930 text of Act No. 3815 (Lawphil) and the amending Republic Acts in our library. Amendments made by Presidential Decrees, Batas Pambansa or executive orders are not yet included. For information and research only, and not legal advice. This text may not reflect later amendments. For certified copies, refer to the Official Gazette or the issuing agency.