The Legalization of Marijuana – A Necessary Reform
for the Philippines
When people hear about the legalization of marijuana, they often assume it means
allowing anyone to freely use the plant in any way whether by smoking, inhaling, or
possessing it for personal use. This misunderstanding produces fear and opposition,
preventing an informed discussion about the true target of legalization. The issue is not
about encouraging recreational use but about recognizing the scientific, economic, and
medical potential of marijuana under proper regulation. The Philippines, like many other
countries, has long maintained a strict position against marijuana, but the reality is that our
current policies are outdated, ineffective, and hamful to those who could benefit from its
proper use. This paper argues in favor of legalization not as a reckless policy shift, but as a
well-regulated reform aimed at medical advancement, economic growth, and social justice.
The medical potential of marijuana is undeniable. Scientific studies around the world
have proven its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and
nausea caused by chemotherapy. Patients suffering from serious medical conditions, Many
of them, having exhausted traditional treatments, could find relief through controlled access
to cannabis-based medicine.” The Philippines, however, continues to deny them this option,
forcing them to rely on expensive and often less effective alternatives. Other countries,
including Canada, Germany, and Thailand, have already integrated marijuana into their
healthcare systems, allowing doctors to prescribe it under strict guidelines. The Philippine
government must acknowledge the overwhelming medical evidence and adapt its policies to
provide patients with better treatment options.
Beyond healthcare, legalization also gives economic advantages. The global
cannabis industry is worth billions, and the Philippines is in a prime position to benefit from
this emerging market. With its fertile agricultural lands and favorable climate, the country
could become a major in medical marijuana production, creating jobs and attracting
investments. Countries that have legalized marijuana, such as Canada and the United
States, have generated billions in tax revenue. These funds are reinvested into education,
healthcare, and public infrastructure, directly benefiting the economy and the people. If
properly regulated, the marijuana industry could reduce dependence on foreign
pharmaceutical imports and establish the Philippines as a leader in cannabis-based
medicine within Asia.
Another critical reason for legalization is criminal justice reform. For decades, the war
on drugs in the Philippines has resulted in thousands of arrests for marijuana possession,
disproportionately affecting low-income individuals. While the government allocates
significant resources to prosecuting non-violent marijuana users, more serious crimes go
unresolved. In many cases, individuals caught with small amounts of marijuana face severe
penalties, including imprisonment, which further burdens the already overcrowded prison
system. Legalization would prevent unnecessary arrests, allowing law enforcement to focus
on major crimes while also dismantling the illegal drug trade by bringing marijuana sales
under government control.
Others argue that marijuana legalization could lead to increased addiction, mental
health issues, and impaired driving. However, studies from countries that have legalized
marijuana disprove these concerns. Research published in JAMA Pediatrics (2019) found
that marijuana use among teenagers did not increase after legalization, as strict age
restrictions and regulated distribution limited access. Additionally, marijuana is far less
addictive than alcohol, nicotine, or opioids, and responsible medical use does not pose the
same public health risks as unregulated recreational consumption. Countries that have
implemented legalization have also introduced strict DUI laws and public awareness
campaigns, effectively addressing concerns about impaired driving.
It Is important to clarify that legalization does not mean allowing unrestricted access
to all components of marijuana. Instead, what is being advocated is the regulation of
specific, medically beneficial compounds such as cannabidiol (CBD) while imposing strict
controls on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive substance responsible for
intoxication. CBD has been scientifically proven to reduce seizures, relieve anxiety, and
manage pain without causing addiction or cognitive impairment. The Philippines must
distinguish between these components, ensuring that only the safe and beneficial aspects of
marijuana are legalized while maintaining strict control over recreational use.
Legalizing marijuana under a well-regulated system is a necessary step for the
Philippines. The medical benefits are undeniable, offering relief for patients suffering from
chronic conditions. The economic opportunities are substantial, providing jobs and
generating tax revenue that could be reinvested into national development. Legalization also
promotes justice, preventing unnecessary arrests and freeing law enforcement to focus on
more serious crimes.
To ensure responsible implementation, the government must establish clear
regulations, strict age restrictions, and controlled distribution channels. Legalization should
be approached with scientific evidence, economic foresight, and social responsibility—not
fear or misinformation. The failure of marijuana prohibition is evident, and continuing to resist
change only denies the Philippines the opportunity to progress. Now is the time to move
forward with a smarter, safer, and more just approach to marijuana policy.
