Leading global cannabis expert Dr. Shiksha Gallow joined Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla in pushing for the legalization of medical cannabis in the Philippines to help alleviate severe pain experienced by cancer patients and other Filipinos suffering from chronic illnesses.

In a press conference held on December 19 at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City, global cannabis experts highlighted the benefits of medical cannabis and shared latest findings in clinical studies for medical cannabis and cited that the Philippines could very well position itself as the medical cannabis hub in Asia.

“The issue of medical cannabis is not just about legislation, it is about humanity. I urge you to vote in favor of this bill, not just as lawmakers, but as human beings who stand for the dignity and welfare of every Filipino,” Dr. Gallow said.

She cautioned that delays could mean losing the chance to make a real difference. Backed by science and patient needs, she called on lawmakers to respond urgently, adding that the Philippines could take the lead in advancing medical cannabis in Asia.

Advancing care for Filipinos

The discussion also touched on Senate Bill (SB) No. 2573, known as the Cannabis Medicalization Act of the Philippines, authored by Senator Robinhood Padilla which outlines a regulated system for the cultivation, distribution, and prescription of medical cannabis for qualified patients, aiming to improve pain management options and address debilitating medical conditions across the country.

Senator Padilla is hopeful about the passing of the bill, stating that it is already on track for its third Senate reading after a series of interpolations. He also shared insights on global best practices in the use of medical cannabis, describing it as a revolution.

“I have spoken with fellow senators about the evidence-based use of cannabis. I saw for myself the difference between recreational and medical cannabis. Nakita natin yung malaking pagkakaiba na recreational cannabis makes you high samantalang and medicinal cannabis ay may therapeutic benefits,” Senator Padilla said.

Sen. Padilla also shared updates from his Israel visit, where he gained insights into the safety and quality standards of pharmaceutical cannabis, describing it as both clean and organic.

He said that medical cannabis remains safe even if misused. “Kapag ang medical cannabis ay inabuso, wala pong negatibong epekto. Napakadali nitong kontrolin dahil may mga umiiral nang batas ang Dangerous Drugs Board. Ang binabago lang natin sa batas ay gawing legal ang paggamit nito bilang gamot.”

Medical cannabis has been shown to address a range of conditions supported by evidence-based studies, including cancer, chronic pain, autoimmune inflammatory diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis), epilepsy, insomnia, wasting syndrome (linked to HIV/AIDS), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism, among others.

Expert insights from global and local leaders

The event highlighted globally recognized Cannabis Clinician Dr. Shiksha Gallow, known for her pioneering work in South Africa, including leading clinical trials on replacing opioids with cannabis for pain management.

Her husband, Wayne Gallow, who was paralyzed after a motorcycle accident, shared how medical cannabis aided his recovery specifically in pain management and patient support. “”You guys have an unbelievable opportunity to do things better than the other countries that are surrounding you,” he said.

Filipino experts also weighed in on the importance of local implementation. Dr. Gem Marq Mutia, founder of the Philippine Society of Cannabinoid Medicine, stressed the need for educating healthcare providers on cannabinoid treatments; Dr. Peter Quilala, a board member of the same organization, underscored the value of locally conducted research to shape policies; and Dr. Angel Gomez, past president of the Philippine Society of Anesthesiologists, highlighted cannabis’ role in pain management for palliative care.

Growing calls for cannabis legalization in the Ph

Cannabis remains classified as an illegal substance under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

Last February, the Department of Health (DOH) has reminded the public that “the use of marijuana remains punishable by law unless granted a compassionate special permit issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)”. Such permits allow limited use and importation of medical cannabis for specific patients.

However, growing evidence of its therapeutic potential has prompted increasing scrutiny of its prohibition. Medical professionals and patient advocacy groups have consistently called attention to the benefits of cannabis in treating debilitating conditions, urging lawmakers to reconsider its legal status.

The DOH has acknowledged ongoing efforts to legalize medical cannabis but stressed the importance of grounding any initiatives in robust scientific evidence, while carefully evaluating their cost-effectiveness and public health impact.

Paving the way for compassionate healthcare

For Senator Padilla, advocating for medical cannabis addresses deep-rooted deficiencies in the healthcare system, saying: “Nahuhuli na po tayo. Sa isyu ng cannabis, ang dami na nating dapat ginawa. Ang Australia at iba pang bansa, nagtatanim na ng hemp. Pero dito sa atin, bawal pa rin. Bakit ba hindi natin matanggap ang cannabis bilang gamot? Matagal na itong ginagamit bilang lunas.”

Senate Bill No. 2573 is gaining momentum as advocates continue to push for its passage. The proposed legislation lays the groundwork for a highly regulated medical cannabis program that promotes safety, access, and accountability.

Senator Padilla envisions the Philippines becoming a center for cancer treatment in Asia and expressed confidence that the President will support the bill if presented properly.

With developments underway, proponents remain optimistic that the Philippines will soon join a growing list of nations leveraging medical cannabis to bridge gaps in healthcare.

The initiative seeks to provide relief to patients while upholding stringent safeguards to prevent misuse, ultimately positioning the country as a leader in affordable, safe, and accessible healthcare solutions.