NAME: BEROU, JOMARK R.

YEAR & SECTION: III-SILVER

SUBJECT CODE: NCM 117N
MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION

Medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, refers to the use of the marijuana plant or its
chemical compounds, such as cannabinoids, for medicinal purposes. The debate around the legalization
of medical marijuana has been ongoing in various countries, including the Philippines. In this essay, we
will discuss the definition of medical marijuana, the context of the debate in the Philippines, and the
purpose of evaluating the potential benefits and drawbacks of legalizing medical marijuana. Medical
marijuana has been used for centuries to treat a variety of medical conditions, including pain, nausea,
and muscle spasms. The debate surrounding the legalization of medical marijuana in the Philippines is
complex, reflecting the country’s conservative cultural and religious beliefs. The Philippines has strict
drug laws, and the use of marijuana for any purpose is illegal. However, there is a growing push for the
legalization of medical marijuana, driven by the recognition of its potential medical benefits and the
need to provide alternative treatment options for patients with debilitating conditions. The purpose of
discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of legalizing medical marijuana in the Philippines is to
understand the implications of such a policy change on public health, the economy, and society as a
whole. It is essential to weigh the potential benefits of medical marijuana, such as pain relief and
improved quality of life for patients, against the potential risks, such as increased substance abuse and
public safety concerns.

One of the primary benefits of legalizing medical marijuana is its medical benefits. Many studies have
shown that marijuana can be effective in managing chronic pain. For those suffering from conditions
such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or cancer, medical marijuana can provide much-needed relief from
pain and improve quality of life. In addition, there is evidence to suggest that marijuana may be effective
in treating specific conditions such as epilepsy, cancer-related symptoms, and PTSD. Furthermore,
legalizing medical marijuana can create economic opportunities. The industry can create jobs in
cultivation, processing, distribution, and retail, providing employment for many individuals. In addition,
the sale of medical marijuana can generate tax revenue for the government, which can be used to fund
vital public services. Another important aspect of legalizing medical marijuana is patient access and
safety. By regulating access to medical marijuana, patients can ensure they are receiving safe and legal
treatment. Additionally, implementing standards for product quality and safety can help protect patients
from potential harm. Overall, the pros of legalizing medical marijuana are clear. From its medical
benefits to the economic opportunities it can provide, there are many reasons to consider the
legalization of medical marijuana. By carefully regulating its use and ensuring patient access and safety,
medical marijuana can become a valuable tool in the treatment of various medical conditions.

One of the major cons of legalizing medical marijuana is the potential for addiction and abuse, especially
in vulnerable populations. There is evidence to suggest that marijuana use can lead to dependency, with
some individuals developing a substance use disorder. This is particularly concerning in patients who are
already struggling with addiction issues or have a history of substance abuse. In addition, there are also
concerns about the impact of marijuana on mental health, particularly in adolescents. Another major
con of legalizing medical marijuana is the challenges in regulating production, distribution, and use.
There are significant compliance and enforcement issues that need to be addressed to ensure that
medical marijuana is being used safely and appropriately. This includes setting up a system for
overseeing cultivation, processing, and distribution, as well as monitoring patient use and preventing
misuse of the drug. One of the less tangible but still important cons of legalizing medical marijuana is the
social stigma and perception surrounding the drug. Despite growing acceptance of marijuana use for
medical purposes, there is still a significant stigma associated with its use. Many people still view
marijuana as a dangerous drug with no legitimate medical uses, and this can impact the way that
patients and healthcare providers perceive it. Addressing this stigma and changing societal attitudes
towards marijuana use, even for medical purposes, can be a significant challenge. It may require
education and awareness campaigns to help people understand the potential benefits of medical
marijuana and its role in treating certain medical conditions.

Medical marijuana has been touted for its potential to alleviate symptoms of a variety of medical
conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, and cancer. Research has shown that cannabinoids, the
active compounds in marijuana, can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce pain
and inflammation. In addition, marijuana has been linked to improvements in mental health, with some
studies suggesting that it may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Furthermore, the
economic potential of the medical marijuana industry is significant. Legalization can create job
opportunities, stimulate local economies, and generate tax revenue for governments. On the other
hand, opponents of medical marijuana legalization raise valid concerns about potential health risks and
legal challenges. Some argue that marijuana use can have adverse effects on cognition, memory, and
mental health, especially among adolescents. When considering stakeholders in the medical marijuana
debate, it is crucial to take into account the perspectives of patients, healthcare providers, government
officials, law enforcement agencies, and the general public. Patients who could benefit from medical
marijuana are often at the forefront of advocacy efforts, pushing for access to a treatment option they
believe could improve their quality of life. Healthcare providers, on the other hand, must navigate
complex legal and ethical considerations when recommending medical marijuana to their patients.
Government officials and law enforcement agencies face the challenge of regulating a substance that is
legal in some jurisdictions but illegal in others. The conflicting legal landscape creates uncertainty and
challenges for both providers and patients. Public opinion on medical marijuana varies widely, with
some seeing it as a valuable medical treatment and others viewing it as a dangerous drug with the
potential for abuse. Informed decision-making is critical when navigating the complexities of medical
marijuana legalization. Thorough research, evidence-based policies, and public education are essential
components of developing effective regulations and guidelines for medical marijuana use. Policymakers
must consider the latest scientific evidence, input from healthcare professionals, and feedback from the
public to create a comprehensive framework that addresses both the potential benefits and risks of
medical marijuana.

References:

American Medical Association. (2020). Marijuana use for medical purposes.

https://www.ama-assn.org/topics/cannabis-marijuana

Castillo, M. (2019, June 12). Legal pot could create 250,000 jobs in PH – lawmaker. Philippine Daily
Inquirer. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1903809/doh-statement-on-medical-use-of-marijuana
International Narcotics Control Board. (2020). Report of the International Narcotics Control Board for
2019 (Narcotic Drugs: Psychotropic Substances: Estimates of World Requirements for 2021; Statistics for
2018). United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
https://unis.unvienna.org/unis/uploads/documents/2023-INCB/INCB_annual_report-English.pdf