No legalization of medical marijuana under Duterte admin, Palace says

March 12, 2019

President Rodrigo Duterte would not allow the legalization of the use of marijuana even if it is for medical purpose, Malacanang said on Tuesday.

In a press briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said this was the final stance of the President.

"He doesn't like because he's feeling (that) you will be using that as an excuse (to use marijuana). 'That's why not during my time'," he said, quoting Duterte.

Previously, Duterte said he was open to legalize the use of marijuana for medical purpose. But recently, he recanted his statement.

Panelo said Duterte noted the findings marijuana could be used to cure certain sickness were "not definitive."

"So, he doesn't want to risk the spread of addiction in this country," Panelo said. 

Duterte has declared an all-out war against illegal drugs, resulting in the death of over 5,000 individuals during the government's anti-drug operations. Celerina Monte/DMS