LEADING global cannabis expert Dr. Shiksha Gallow joined Senator Robinhood Padilla in pushing for the legalization of medical cannabis in the
Philippines to help alleviate severe pain experienced by cancer patients and other Filipinos suffering from chronic illnesses.
In a press conference at Solaire Resort in Parañaque City on Dec. 19, global cannabis experts highlighted the benefits of medical cannabis and shared latest findings in clinical studies for medical cannabis and cited that the Philippines could very well position itself as the medical cannabis hub in Asia.
“The issue of medical cannabis is not just about legislation, it is about humanity. I urge you to vote in favor of this bill, not just as lawmakers, but as human beings who stand for the dignity and welfare of every Filipino,” Dr. Gallow said.
She cautioned that delays could mean losing the chance to make a real difference. Backed by science and patient needs, she called on lawmakers to respond urgently, adding that the Philippines could take the lead in advancing medical cannabis in Asia.
Advancing care for Filipinos
The discussion also touched on Senate Bill No. 2573, the Cannabis Medicalization Act of the Philippines, authored by Padilla, which outlined a regulated system for the cultivation, distribution and prescription of medical cannabis for qualified patients, aiming to improve pain management options and address debilitating medical conditions across the country.
Padilla is hopeful about the passing of the bill, stating that it is already on track for its third Senate reading after a series of interpolations. He also shared insights on global best practices in the use of medical cannabis, describing it as a revolution.
Sen. Padilla shared updates from his Israel visit, where he gained insights into the safety and quality standards of pharmaceutical cannabis, describing it as both clean and organic.
Growing calls for cannabis legalization in the Philippines
Cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
The Department of Health (DoH) reminded the public last February that “the use of marijuana remains punishable by law unless granted a compassionate special permit issued by the Food and Drug Administration,” adding that such permits would allow limited use and importation of medical cannabis for specific patients.
However, growing evidence of its therapeutic potential prompted increasing scrutiny of its prohibition. Medical professionals and patient advocacy groups have consistently called attention to the benefits of cannabis in treating debilitating conditions, urging lawmakers to reconsider its legal status.
The DoH acknowledged ongoing efforts to legalize medical cannabis but stressed the importance of grounding any initiatives in robust scientific evidence, while carefully evaluating their cost-effectiveness and public health impact.
For Senator Padilla, advocating for medical cannabis would address deep-rooted deficiencies in the health care system. He envisioned the Philippines as a center for cancer treatment in Asia and expressed confidence that the president would support the bill if presented properly.
