Contributed by Sandy Cagurangan

In a recent press conference, Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla announced the acceptance of Senate Bill 2573, also known as the Cannabis Medicalization Act of the Philippines. This bill aims to legalize the use of cannabis for medical purposes in the country.

The Science Behind Medical Cannabis

Dr. Shiksha Gallow, a cannabis clinician, joined Senator Padilla at the press conference to shed light on the benefits of medical cannabis. “The science supports it and I think this is the time for the Philippines to actually shine and take over Asia with regards to medical cannabis, to be the leaders in the industry,” stated Dr. Gallow.

Addressing concerns about addiction, Dr. Gallow explained, “It is less addictive than the cup of coffee that is sitting on your table. It’s sitting at a 9% addiction rate.” She compared this to the higher addiction rates of alcohol (20%) and nicotine (30%), emphasizing the need to overcome the stigma surrounding cannabis.

Senator Padilla’s Advocacy

Senator Padilla has been a strong advocate for the legalization of medical cannabis. He has conducted extensive research and traveled to countries where medical cannabis is already legal. “Kaya ko po ito tinutulak para po sa ating mga kababayan walang pambayad sa mahal kapag sila ay nagkacancer. Kapag sila po ay lumalapit sa amin para manghingi ng tulong para sa katakot takot na treatment, pambili ng gamot, dito po lumalakas ang loob namin na isulong pa po ang medical cannabis,” Senator Padilla shared.

He also highlighted the potential economic benefits, stating, “Kung puro synthetic po na gamot ang irereseta dito sa mga kababayan nating mahihirap na naghihikahos na ho at may cancer at ang iba po dyan ay itinutulog na lang ang sakit. Madali lang po itong itanim, ito na po ang pinakamura at pinaka epektibo para sa ating mga kababayan na pwede pong i-subsidize ng gobyerno.”

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Government and Senate Support

While the Department of Health has not yet endorsed the use of medical cannabis until it is legalized, Senator Padilla revealed that he has garnered support from many of his fellow senators. Senators JV Ejercito, Migs Zubiri, and Bato are in favor of the bill. Senator Bong Go has expressed support but emphasized the need for proper regulation, while Senator Koko Pimentel raised concerns about controlling its use.

“Halos lahat naman sakanila pabor, yun lang kung paano hindi maabuso, kaya parati Kong ipinapaliwanag ang pagkakaiba ng recreational at ng medical,” Senator Padilla concluded.

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