July 31, 2024
MANILA – In a landmark decision, the House of Representatives has passed House Bill No. 10439, also known as the proposed Access to Medical Cannabis Act, with a significant majority. During the plenary session, 177 lawmakers supported the bill, while 9 voted against it and another 9 abstained.
Key Features of House Bill No. 10439
The Access to Medical Cannabis Act aims to:
- Legalize the use of medical cannabis for qualified patients.
- Create a dedicated Medical Cannabis Office under the Department of Health to regulate the industry.
- Establish guidelines for the cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, prescription, and dispensation of medical cannabis.
According to Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, one of the bill’s sponsors, this legislation is designed to provide patients with access to cannabis in a manner akin to traditional pharmaceutical products. “By no means is this bill a gateway to the recreational use of cannabis,” emphasized Barbers, reiterating that marijuana will remain classified as a dangerous drug.
Patient Accessibility and Regulatory Oversight
This new legislation specifies that medical cannabis will be available to patients suffering from either debilitating or non-debilitating medical conditions. Access will be granted only through a physician’s prescription and supervision.
The Medical Cannabis Office will oversee:
- Implementation of legal frameworks concerning medical cannabis.
- Licensing and enforcement to ensure compliance with safety and security regulations.
- Coordination with the Dangerous Drugs Board to prevent nonmedical or recreational cannabis use.
Previous Attempts at Legalization
This isn’t the first legislative effort regarding medical marijuana in the Philippines. A similar bill, the Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act, was passed in January 2019 but ultimately stalled due to shifts in political support.
Last February, the Philippine Medical Association expressed its concerns over HB 10439, arguing that it could pave the way for recreational marijuana legalization. Health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon also voiced his opposition, suggesting that the bill was moving forward without adequate consultation from the medical community.
Public Sentiment and Future Implications
Supporters of medical cannabis believe that this measure could significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from various medical conditions. Advocates are hopeful that the legislation will contribute to the ongoing discourse about medical cannabis in the country.
For more detailed discussions on this topic, you may visit the links below:
As this pivotal legislation moves closer to implementation, the nation watches with anticipation, weighing the benefits against the concerns raised by various stakeholders. The future of medical cannabis in the Philippines hangs in the balance, with this bill representing a significant step forward for patient rights and healthcare options.
