Benjamin Gacutan, who has been playing scratch cards for a long time, never expected that a simple visit to the Lotto outlet would change his life.
Gatucan, who retired from his job in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2019, shared that going to a lotto outlet was never part of his plan that day when he walked into SM Fairview. “I didn’t plan to buy a scratch card, but my feet just brought me to this outlet. I was scratching like I always do,” Gacutan recalled.
Although it was not the first time he won from scratch cards, the amounts were relatively small with the biggest being P5,000. However, he did confess to three consecutive P5,000 wins in November 2024 alone.
Nevertheless, he never imagined getting the P500,000 jackpot.
“I thought it was only ₱50, but when I saw it was ₱500,000, I couldn’t believe it,” Benjamin said. Even the teller who first checked his ticket couldn’t believe the amount he had won.
Gacutan wasted no time. Together with his sister, they immediately went to the PCSO office to claim the prize. “My sister told me we should go to PCSO right away,” he added.
For Gacutan, it’s not just about the money but also the opportunity to help his family. “I’m the breadwinner in the family, so the best feeling is being able to share the blessings with them,” he said.
He plans to use the ₱500,000 for healthcare expenses, medical maintenance, and a family vacation.
“I’ll also use some for my health because I’m getting older,” he added. Grateful for the support of his family, he wants to share his success with them. “When I win, I share it with my family. They’re the ones who are always there for me,” Gacutan said.
While thankful for the good fortune, Gacutan reminded others that games of chance like “Scratchit” and “Go for Gold” should be seen as a form of entertainment, not as a way to get rich.
“Don’t expect to always win. You should only use extra money, not the money you need for your family’s daily expenses,” he advised.
As he ages, Gacutan sees the value of helping others and being open to the blessings life offers. “It’s better to try than not to, but you should still be responsible with your money,” he said.
In the future, Gacutan hopes to continue enjoying life and supporting his family. He also plans to help his cousin, a priest in Japan, build a church. “I want to help him become the first Filipino bishop in Japan, blessed by the Pope,” he said.
Benjamin Gacutan is a testament to how luck, patience, and valuing family can bring good things into life. His story shows that even in retirement, there are still opportunities to share blessings and help loved ones.
