Pacalso backs proposed HB 180

IF HOUSE Bill No. 180 hurdles the Congress, Benguet Governor Crescencio Pacalso said the proposed Philippine Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act may bring better economic benefits for the province.

During his State of the Province Address August 15, Pacalso said the pending law at the Lower House once passed can boost the economy not only of the province but also the farmers engaged in planting cannavis sativa, especially for medical purposes.

“There are medical research indicating marijuana, especially the oil extract can bring benefits to people with cancer,” Pacalso said.

The bill is authored by Isabela Rep. Rodito T. Albano III and is currently being reviewed in Congress.

Marijuana has proven to thrive in Benguet province particularly in Bakun, Kapangan, and Kibungan but Pacalso said these areas have been cleared since President Rodrigo Duterte declared intensified war against illegal drugs.

However, Pacalso noted only two barangays in Kibungan, particularly Badeo and

Takadang has yet to be cleared of marijuana.

Although the bill may take years before it pass, Pacalso said the province is eyeing its sight on cacao farming as a means of livelihood for drug surrenderees and known marijuana cultivators in Benguet with an initial funding of P1 million.

“We see a big potential for cacao especially with markets from abroad,” added Pacalso.

The provincial government, according to Pacalso has started distributing cacao seeds to all 13 municipalities as a replacement crop in areas once used as marijuana plantations.

According to their study, cacao can be grown in Benguet because of its elevation which is at least 900 meters above the sea level.