Group wants marijuana legalization tackled in presidential debates

MANILA, Philippines – A group pushing for the legalization of marijuana for medical use has called for the inclusion of the controversial issue in presidential debates.

Kimmi del Prado, Philippine Cannabis Compassion Society founder, said they want to know the stand of the presidential candidates on the issue.

“We need to ask the presidential aspirants whether or not they are for the legalization of medical cannabis in the Philippines,” she said.

Del Prado expressed belief that the 16th Congress would not be able to pass House Bill 4477 or the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Act.

But the group is not losing hope the proposed measure will be approved by the next Congress.

“We know there’s little time left with the 16th Congress. We are aware of pressing issues such as the BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law), West Philippine Sea dispute and other bills in process,” Del Prado said.

“So we want to intensify the campaign for the legalization of marijuana and make it an issue for the presidential candidates,” she added.

According to Del Prado, the recent positive developments in Australia are expected to boost the legalization of marijuana in Southeast Asia.

Del Prado said they intend to bring the campaign for medical marijuana to the Senate.