Medicinal MJ debates continue

THE question of medicinal marijuana has caught the fancy of Bato.

Philippine National Police Director General Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa candidly divulged to have experienced the use the illegal drug weed.

"I have tasted marijuana for two times when I was in college."

The confession came at the heels of queries on the possibility of legalizing marijuana for medical purposes.

Dela Rosa said the experience with the drug was during his days at the Mindanao State University “The effect to me when I tried marijuana was having a feeling of [being] high, having red eyes and wanting to lis-

ten and sing folk songs due to its good vibes.”

The PNP Chief stressed he does not recommend anyone to use the prohibited drug.

"I leave it to the congress on how they will determine the use of medical marijuana but for us law enforcers, we will have to abide by what congress will formulate.”

Previously, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) together with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a joint advisory to warn the public not to buy or use hempseed oil even if it is for medicinal use.

PDEA Information chief Joseph Calulut said "The Agency favors the use of marijuana in medical procedures provided it contains the necessary safeguards to ascertain its specific medical use".

In 2014, Isabela 1st District Representative Rodolfo Albano III filed House Bill 4477 or the Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Bill.

The bill seeks to legalize and regulate the medical use of cannabis in compliance with government policy to balance its national drug control program and the regulated use of dangerous drugs for treatment and medication of patients with debilitating medical conditions.

PDEA warns the use of marijuana is still prohibited despite claims the drug is effectively used by patients suffering from life threatening diseases.

Dela Rosa said if ever congress passes the law, what we need to find out is for it to either be regulated or for it to be open to the public.

Despite moves from Congress to legalize the use of marijuna, the sale and its use remains to be banned.

Last week, Dela Rosa was guest of honor during the 116th Police Service Anniversary at Camp Bado Dangwa where he rallied the force to do better.

"Upon leaving the service in the future, a legacy that I would like to leave the PNP is for the young troops to love the organization, love your uniform, love your job, and above all love your community.”

The PNP chief pushed the men and women of the police force to work for the benefit of the community which in return would appreciate their service.