MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday stated that any use of marijuana is still punishable by law.
The DOH reiterated this statement following the approval last week by the House Committees on Dangerous Drugs and on Health of a bill permitting the use of medical marijuana.
“The DOH reminds the general public that any use of marijuana at this point is still punishable by law, unless granted a compassionate special permit signed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director General that would allow its use and importation in the country,” the DOH said in a statement.
“We shall keep the public updated should there be developments in the use of medical cannabis,” it added.
The DOH acknowledged the initiatives of certain groups advocating for the legalization of “medical cannabis use,” distinguishing it from recreational marijuana use.
The agency emphasized that any such initiatives should be grounded in the best available scientific evidence, carefully assessed for cost-effectiveness, and evaluated for their impact on public health.
“Legislation should also consider the regulatory capacity of all government agencies that will be involved should there be approval,” the DOH said.
“However, the DOH does not support either the cultivation of cannabis plants or the manufacture of the cannabis product,” it added.
The Philippine Medical Association has expressed concern, stating that the use of marijuana for unproven medical purposes is harmful.
According to the association, legalizing cannabis would send a misleading message, particularly to the youth, implying that the government deems cannabis as a safe substance, thus potentially exposing citizens to avoidable harm.
