Medical Cannabis is not a threat to public
After 4 years of struggle for the legalization of Medical Cannabis in the country, the Philippine Cannabis Compassion Society (PCCS) has found a strong ally. The statement of the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring that Medical Cannabis is found to be beneficial to patients with Cancer, Epilepsy, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease is a welcome development.
Advocates for Medical Cannabis and have been under fire after the Philippine Medical Association (PMA)along with other medical societies including UP Manila have issued statements strongly opposing medical cannabis legalization since this will expose our citizenry to unnecessary harm and the risk of poor health outcomes.
“Let us listen and respect the views of the real experts. The WHO has already spoken acknowledging the benefits of Medical Cannabis” Dr. Donnabel Cunanan, spokesperson of the PCCS stated. The WHO published a report on December 13, 2017 with the following findings: Recent evidence from animal and human studies shows that the use of Medical Cannabis could have some therapeutic value for seizures due to epilepsy and related conditions.
Current evidence also shows that cannabidiol is not likely to be abused or create dependence. “We hope this information will shed light and end the discussion between patients and decision makers. This is the best Christmas gift to us.” Cunanan added.
“We understand the role that our legislators play in protecting public interest. We appeal to Senator Sotto and Congressman Atienza to respect the need of our patients to Medical Cannabis. The WHO already declared that it is not addictive and it is safe and should be given to patients. We are looking forward to the support of Senator Sotto and Congressman Atienza in this issue.” Cunanan noted. PCCS hopes the two legislators will finally support the passage of the Philippine Medical Cannabis Compassionate Act after the statement of the WHO.
The proposed legislation ensures strict control mechanism for the safe access of legitimate qualified patients to Medical Cannabis.
