Pubdate: Fri, 01 Jul 2016
Source: Manila Bulletin (The Philippines)
Contact:  http://www.mb.com.ph/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/906
Author: Charissa M. Luci

MEDICAL MARIJUANA BILL FILED ANEW

Isabela Rep. Rodito Albano re-filed yesterday his pet measure seeking 
to legalize the medical use of marijuana in the country. He said his 
proposed Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act will benefit 
thousands of patients in the country suffering from serious illnesses.

"Its objective is for patients to have access to safe, affordable, 
available medical cannabis prescribed by a registered physician. 
Recent scientific studies show that cannabis is effective in the 
prevention, treatment and management of specified symptoms, illnesses 
and diseases," he said.

He expressed hope that the 17th Congress would give due attention to 
his prohealth proposal.

Last year, the House Committee on Health, chaired by La Union Rep. 
Eufranio Eriguel created the technical working group to come up with 
the final version of the bill.

Albano assured that his measure contains very stringent control 
provisions on the use of medical marijuana to prevent any abuse and 
harm to patients legally allowed or authorized by doctors to use it.

At least 69 House members rallied behind Albano's proposal.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom