DOH wants ‘best scientific evidence’ for medical marijuana

A marijuana plant (AFP file photo)

MANILA, Philippines —  The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday said that initiatives for the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes should be grounded in the “best available scientific evidence.”

However, it also said that it “does not support” both the cultivation of cannabis plants and the manufacturing of any cannabis products.

The DOH acknowledged efforts to legalize medical cannabis use; but it emphasized that such initiatives must be supported by studies that were weighted for cost-effectiveness and public health impact.

“Any such initiatives should be based on the best available scientific evidence, weighed for cost-effectiveness and public health impact. ”

“Legislation should also consider the regulatory capacity of all government agencies that will be involved should there be approval,” the DOH said in a statement in response to the recent approval by joint House committees of a bill that seeks to legalize the medical use of marijuana.

The health department reminded the public that any use of marijuana at this point is punishable by law, unless granted a compassionate special permit by the Food and Drug Administration Director General.

This special permit allows the use and importation of such products in the country.

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA), in a statement last February 6, opposed any new legislation that legalizes the use of cannabis.

“The medical community supports the use of FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved medical cannabis preparations for specific indications,” the PMA said in a statement.

“[However], there is no need for new legislation to access FDA approved medical cannabis for specific indications. Legislation will not be able to catch up with the advances in health technology, and health technology should not be legislated,” it added.