A majority of Filipinos support the legalization of medical cannabis

The legalization of cannabis for medicinal purposes is supported by the majority of Filipinos, according to a recent study by independent think-tank Capstone-Intel Corp.

The survey, conducted from August 1 to 10, revealed that 63% of the 1,205 people questioned were in favor of legalizing cannabis for medical purposes, provided that its proponents «conduct more research [and] set strict guidelines for access and dosage control». Respondents also stressed the need for greater awareness and education about medical cannabis.

The remaining 37% are opposed to legalization, report the Manila Times.

The poll also revealed that 38% of those surveyed agreed that legalizing medical cannabis could offer a viable solution to patients who have not found effective treatment under conventional medicine. On the other hand, 29% neither agreed nor disagreed with this statement, while 24% agreed that legalizing cannabis for medical purposes could bring relief to such patients.

The survey also showed that 49% of those polled called for further research and studies into the potential benefits and drawbacks of using cannabis for medical purposes.

According to the study, 55% of those surveyed «strongly agreed» that medical cannabis should be legalized to guarantee its quality, safety and proper dosage control. And 30 % of those surveyed «agreed» with this statement.

The legalization of medical cannabis is in the Philippines, In fact, two bills proposing it have been put forward by Congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Senator Robin Padilla, who are the main proponents.

Mrs. Arroyo teamed up with former House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to support the legalization of cannabis for medical purposes by introducing House Bill 7817.

Padilla supports Senate Bill 230 (Medical Cannabis Compassionate Access Act), in which he cites Israel as a good example of the use of medical cannabis due to its strict rules and regulations. The project has been underway since 2019.