Is the Philippines finally ready to legalize medical cannabis?
Senator Robin Padilla just refiled his version of the long-delayed medical cannabis bill—originally known as Senate Bill 2573—reviving hopes that the 20th Congress might do what previous administrations couldn’t: legalize marijuana for therapeutic use.
This move aligns with House Bill 10439, authored by Camarines Sur Gov. LRay Villafuerte, which passed the House in 2024. But it stalled in the Senate last June, even after garnering support from 13 senators.
With Padilla now naming medical cannabis as one of his top 10 priority measures, there’s real momentum behind the bill’s revival.
And let’s be clear: this isn’t about lighting up—it’s about leveling up healthcare access. Medical cannabis offers a safer, more affordable alternative for Filipinos suffering from debilitating conditions like cancer, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, PTSD, and HIV/AIDS. In a country where pain relief is often out of reach, this could be a game-changer.
Globally, over 60 countries have already embraced medical marijuana. The science is there. The support is growing. And now, so is the political will.
Still, this issue is far from settled. The question is whether the Senate will finally act—or leave patients waiting once again.
