Well-known South African medical expert, East London-based Dr Shiksha Gallow, was recently invited to the Philippines as the keynote speaker at a conference looking for evidence-based support in favour of legalizing medical cannabis. The medical use of the plant is mostly prohibited in the nation of 117 million people, but there is a groundswell movement in favour of reform. During her December 2024 visit. Dr Gallow also trained and certified 40 Fillipino doctors in medical cannabis.

This report from The Manila Standard, from 23 December 2024.

Leading global cannabis expert Dr. Shiksha Gallow joined Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla in pushing for the legalization of medical cannabis in the Philippines to help alleviate severe pain experienced by cancer patients and other Filipinos suffering from chronic illnesses..

In a press conference held on 19 December 2024 at the Solaire Resort in Parañaque City,  global cannabis experts highlighted the benefits of medical cannabis and shared latest findings in clinical studies for medical cannabis and cited that the Philippines could very well position itself as the medical cannabis hub in Asia. 

“The issue of medical cannabis is not just about legislation, it is about humanity. I urge you to vote in favour of this bill, not just as lawmakers, but as human beings who stand for the dignity and welfare of every Filipino,” Dr. Gallow said.

She cautioned that delays could mean losing the chance to make a real difference. Backed by science and patient needs, she called on lawmakers to respond urgently, adding that the Philippines could take the lead in advancing medical cannabis in Asia.

Advancing care for Filipinos

The discussion also touched on Senate Bill (SB) No. 2573, known as the Cannabis Medicalization Act of the Philippines, authored by Senator Robinhood Padilla which outlines a regulated system for the cultivation, distribution, and prescription of medical cannabis for qualified patients, aiming to improve pain management options and address debilitating medical conditions across the country.

Senator Padilla is hopeful about the passing of the bill, stating that it is already on track for its third Senate reading after a series of interpolations. He also shared insights on global best practices in the use of medical cannabis, describing it as a revolution. 

“I have spoken with fellow senators about the evidence-based use of cannabis. I saw for myself the difference between recreational and medical cannabis. Nakita natin yung malaking pagkakaiba na recreational cannabis makes you high samantalang and medicinal cannabis ay may therapeutic benefits,” Senator Padilla said.

Sen. Padilla also shared updates from his Israel visit, where he gained insights into the safety and quality standards of pharmaceutical cannabis, describing it as both clean and organic. 

He said that medical cannabis remains safe even if misused. “Kapag ang medical cannabis ay inabuso, wala pong negatibong epekto. Napakadali nitong kontrolin dahil may mga umiiral nang batas ang Dangerous Drugs Board. Ang binabago lang natin sa batas ay gawing legal ang paggamit nito bilang gamot.”

Medical cannabis has been shown to address a range of conditions supported by evidence-based studies, including cancer, chronic pain, autoimmune inflammatory diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis), epilepsy, insomnia, wasting syndrome (linked to HIV/AIDS), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism, among others.

Expert insights from global and local leaders

The event highlighted globally recognized Cannabis Clinician Dr. Shiksha Gallow, known for her pioneering work in South Africa, including leading clinical trials on replacing opioids with cannabis for pain management.

Her husband, Wayne Gallow, who was paralyzed after a motorcycle accident, shared how medical cannabis aided his recovery specifically in pain management and patient support. “”You guys have an unbelievable opportunity to do things better than the other countries that are surrounding you,” he said.

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