PCO Sec denies Digital8 shares, cites resignation before appointment

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jose Ruíz denies allegations of owning shares in Digital8, Inc., a company that secured government contracts with the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Ruíz clarified he was an authorized representative for sales and marketing for Digital8 and resigned from the company on January 17, 2025, before his appointment as PCO secretary.

Digital8, Inc. was awarded P206.052 million in contracts with the PCSO through joint ventures.

A Certificate of Incorporation from the Securities and Exchange Commission shows no 'Jay Ruiz' listed as an incorporator for Digital8, Inc., with only 'Santos' and 'Miranda' listed as surnames of the incorporators.

PCO Press Officer and Undersecretary Claire Castro responded to reports claiming that a company co-founded by Ruiz secured a P206 million contract with the PCSO before his appointment as PCO Secretary.

Castro clarified that she neither confirmed nor denied Ruiz's ownership in Digital8, stating that her previous remarks were general and based on legal provisions.

The PCO reiterated that all officials must comply with divestment rules and assured the public of the government's commitment to upholding legal and ethical standards.