SENATOR Robinhood “Robin” Padilla has refiled a bill seeking to legalize the use of marijuana for medical purposes, renewing his call to provide expanded access to cannabis-based treatment for qualified patients.
Padilla reintroduced Senate Bill No. 2573, or the Cannabis Medicalization Act of the Philippines, on Monday, June 30, as lawmakers filed their first 10 priority bills for the 20th Congress.
The measure was previously filed in the 19th Congress and reached the Senate plenary under Committee Report No. 210 but failed to pass on final reading.
In his renewed push, Padilla emphasized that the bill contains strict safeguards governing the cultivation, manufacture, and distribution of medical cannabis to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa, who chairs the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, expressed support for the bill and is expected to co-sponsor it.
Dela Rosa said his review found the proposed measure to be “in full consonance with the existing anti-illegal drugs policy of the government.”
A key provision of SB 2573 is the creation of the Philippine Medical Cannabis Authority (PMCA) under the Department of Health (DOH), which would regulate the licensing and oversight of medical cannabis programs.
Padilla included the measure in his list of 10 priority bills, which also features proposals on divorce, the dissolution of marriage, banning political dynasties, certifying halal products, and establishing Muslim prayer rooms in public offices and establishments.
Padilla said the medical marijuana bill responds to patients and families seeking safer, science-backed alternatives to conventional medication for chronic and life-threatening illnesses.