Former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board member and whistleblower Sandra Cam passed away on Thursday, April 10, 2025, her family confirmed. She was 64 years old.
Her son announced her passing through a heartfelt Facebook post, stating, “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dearly beloved mother, Sandra Abaño Martinez-Cam, who was called to join our Creator on April 10, 2025.”
Known for her fierce stance against corruption, Cam earned multiple recognitions during her lifetime. Among them was the prestigious Dangal ng Bayan award and the title Natatanging Filipina na Sumusulong sa Pagtulong at Paglaban sa Korapsyon (Outstanding Filipina Advancing Aid and Fighting Corruption). These were in honor of what her family described as her “dauntless courage, bold spirit, and unwavering dedication as a diligent fighter for truth.”
Cam rose to national prominence in 2005 after she admitted to being a former “jueteng” bagwoman. She turned whistleblower, exposing illegal gambling operations and the alleged involvement of high-ranking politicians. Her bold testimony placed her in the national spotlight and earned her both criticism and praise.
In 2016, she was appointed to the board of the PCSO during President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. She was tasked with helping clean up the agency, which was often mired in corruption allegations. Cam became known for her outspoken nature and for launching investigations into questionable transactions within the PCSO.
However, her later years were not without controversy. In 2020, she was charged in connection with the murder of former Masbate Vice Mayor Charlie Yuson III. The case cast a shadow over her career, though it was ultimately dismissed in 2023.
Despite this, her supporters continued to recognize her role as a crusader for transparency and reform in government. Her family has not yet announced details regarding her wake or burial.
Sandra Cam leaves a legacy marked by transformation—from an insider in illegal gambling operations to a fearless whistleblower and public official who challenged powerful interests in the name of truth.