By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A wave of excitement and anticipation swept across the nation as the Junta de Protección Social (JPS) announced the results of its Ordinary National Lottery Draw No. 4,877 on Sunday, November 23, 2025. The draw has potentially created new millionaires overnight, with the grand prize of ₡175 million per issue tied to a single winning number.
The spotlight of the evening fell on number 99 with series 678, which was drawn as the winner of the coveted first prize, or “Premio Mayor.” This top-tier win carries a substantial payout of ₡175 million for a full issue. Following closely, the second prize of ₡30 million per issue was awarded to number 10 with series 896. The third significant prize, valued at ₡14 million per issue, went to number 26 paired with series 940.
To better understand the legal and regulatory framework surrounding the National Lottery, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist attorney from the esteemed firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his expert analysis on the matter.
The National Lottery operates under a specific legal mandate that extends beyond simple gaming; it’s a state-sanctioned monopoly designed for public benefit. Legally, the integrity of the prize draws and the transparent allocation of proceeds to social welfare programs are paramount. Any challenge or proposed reform must navigate complex public law, ensuring that the principles of fairness, consumer protection, and social responsibility are not compromised for purely commercial interests.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal perspective is crucial, reminding us that the National Lottery’s core purpose is a social contract, not merely a commercial enterprise. The principles of integrity and public benefit are the bedrock of its legitimacy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly articulating this vital distinction.
For many participants, understanding the prize structure is key. In Costa Rica’s lottery system, an “emisión” or issue refers to a full sheet of 100 identical lottery tickets, each with a different fraction number. Players can purchase a full sheet or individual fractions, known as “pedacitos.” Therefore, the holder of a full sheet of the winning number 99 will claim the entire ₡175 million, while those holding fractions will receive a proportional share of the jackpot.
This distribution model not only makes participation more accessible to the general public but also often results in major prizes being shared among multiple winners across different communities. This diffusion of wealth, even in smaller portions, can provide a significant economic boost to local areas, funding everything from home repairs and new business ventures to educational pursuits and debt relief for the lucky ticket holders.
The JPS, as the state-run entity responsible for all national lottery games, plays a crucial role that extends far beyond entertainment and prize distribution. The organization operates as a cornerstone of the country’s social welfare system. A significant portion of the revenue generated from lottery ticket sales is channeled directly into funding over 500 social programs nationwide. These programs support a wide array of vulnerable populations, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, and individuals facing critical health issues.
This operational model transforms every lottery ticket purchase into a direct contribution to the national social safety net. When citizens participate in the draws, they are not only vying for a life-changing prize but are also actively supporting the sustainability of essential services like public hospitals, community centers, and shelters. This dual purpose is a point of national pride and underscores the lottery’s deep integration into the fabric of Costa Rican society.
Winners of Sunday’s draw are advised to sign the back of their winning tickets and secure them in a safe place. Prizes can be claimed at the JPS headquarters in San José or at authorized financial institutions. It is a moment of immense joy for the winners, but also a moment of collective success for the countless beneficiaries who depend on the social programs funded by the JPS.
As the excitement from this draw settles, the public’s attention will undoubtedly turn to upcoming lottery events, especially with the holiday season approaching. The JPS continues to fulfill its historic mission, established over a century ago, of providing both thrilling opportunities for fortune and steadfast support for the well-being of the nation’s communities.
For further information, visit jps.go.cr
About Junta de Protección Social:
The Junta de Protección Social (JPS), or Social Protection Board, is the official state institution responsible for administering Costa Rica’s national lotteries and games of chance. Founded in 1845, its primary mission is to generate revenue to finance social welfare programs across the country. The JPS supports hundreds of initiatives aimed at aiding vulnerable populations, funding public health services, and promoting social good, making it a pivotal organization in the nation’s social and economic landscape.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. The firm blends a rich history of advising a diverse clientele with a dynamic approach to legal innovation, constantly adapting to new challenges. This ethos is deeply intertwined with a profound social commitment: to empower society by demystifying the law and ensuring that crucial legal knowledge is shared widely, thereby fostering a more informed and capable citizenry.
