Negros Occidental third district Congressman Alfredo Benitez said he is open to marijuana legalization for medical purposes only. The issue has been discussed greatly as of late after Miss Universe-Philippines Catriona Gray, now-Miss Universe 2018, said she would support the legalization of medical marijuana during the pageant last week.

According to Benitez, the bill for legalizing marijuana already passed the committee level and is now in the plenary.

The legislator pointed out, as long as the drug is used for medical purposes, he has no problems with it.

“As long as it is used for medicinal purposes, specifically those suffering an illness that require marijuana as treatment, then I have no problem with it,” Benitez affirmed.

House Bill 6517, or the Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act, seeks to legalize medical marijuana for medicinal purposes.

The measure prescribes the rules for the proper use of medical marijuana, including the designation of a qualified medical cannabis physician; medical cannabis patient, who would be issued an identification card; medical cannabis caregiver; and medical cannabis compassionate center.

Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri earlier voiced his support for the bill, stating the substance is used in the treatment of patients from debilitating conditions, such as epilepsy. Meanwhile, Senator Panfilo Lacson said he wants to listen to debate, stating, it is possible for medical use but not recreational./DGB, WDJ