In a significant move for medical reform, the House of Representatives passed House Bill No. 10439, or the Access to Medical Cannabis Act. With a vote of 177-9-9 (affirmative-negative-abstain), the bill legalizes the use of marijuana for qualified patients with specific medical conditions.
The legislation emphasizes that medical cannabis will only be accessible through a doctor’s prescription and supervision.
A newly created Medical Cannabis Office under the Department of Health will oversee implementation, including licensing and ensuring compliance with safety and security protocols. This office aims to prevent non-medical use of marijuana. Despite legalization, marijuana will remain classified as a dangerous and illegal drug.
The passage was not without opposition. The Philippine Medical Association previously expressed concerns that the bill might pave the way for recreational marijuana legalization.
Despite these concerns, the House approval marks a critical step towards making medical cannabis a viable treatment option in the Philippines. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.
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