Philippines

Medical cannabis is prohibited in Philippines. Severe criminal penalties may apply for possession, use, or trafficking.

The Philippines maintains strict cannabis prohibition under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (RA 9165). The Duterte-era “war on drugs” intensified enforcement with extrajudicial consequences. A medical cannabis bill has been filed multiple times in Congress but has not progressed.

Ask the Expert about Philippines

Regulator

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency

Key Legislation

Republic Act 9165

Year Legalized

N/A

Program Size

Fully prohibited

Key Facts

Cannabis is classified as a dangerous drug under RA 9165 with penalties up to life imprisonment
PDEA is the lead agency for anti-drug enforcement operations
A Philippine Medical Cannabis Act has been filed in Congress multiple times but not passed
The “war on drugs” (2016–2022) resulted in thousands of deaths and international condemnation
Compassionate use exceptions for cannabis do not exist under current law

Key Legislation

Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002)

Regulatory Body

Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)

Related jurisdictions

Adult-Use & Medical — Legal

🇺🇸

Arizona

Adult-Use & Medical — Legal

Country Info

ISO Code

Region

Southeast Asia

Tier

Tier 4 — Prohibited

Status

Prohibited

Sources

PDEA

Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Cannabis regulations change frequently. Always verify with official sources and local legal counsel before making compliance decisions.