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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Alvarez's push for marijuana decriminalization to take center stage on April 20 'family day'

Alvarez's push for marijuana decriminalization to take center stage on April 20 'family day'

Published Apr 19, 2023 08:09 am
The marijuana plant (left) and Davao del Norte 1st district Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez (Unsplash, Facebook)


A "family day" to be held in favor of the decriminalization of marijuana will take place Thursday, April 20, in Quezon City, and none other than Davao del Norte 1st district Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez will be the special guest speaker. A "family day" to be held in favor of the decriminalization of marijuana will take place Thursday, April 20, in Quezon City, and none other than Davao del Norte 1st district Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez will be the special guest speaker. Alvarez, a former House Speaker, is the most vocal proponent among 19th Congress legislators for legalizing marijuana use. The 420 Philippines Family Day will be held at the Amoranto Sports Complex. 420 stands for April 20. A statement from Alvarez's office described the Thursday event as "a celebration of freedom and hope for Filipinos who believe that marijuana should be legal in the country, particularly for medical use". Alvarez is the author of House Bill (HB) No.6783, which aims to amend Republic Act (RA) No.9165 or to Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The ammendment will de-list cannabis, cannabis resin and extracts, and tinctures of cannabis as an illegal substance. The measure is under technical working group (TWG) discussion with  the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs. Alvarez is expected to express on Thursday his support for the bill and discuss the potential benefits of legalizing marijuana--with safeguards--for purposes especially medical reasons. "The legalization of marijuana for medical purposes is long overdue in the Philippines. It has been proven to have numerous medical benefits and can provide relief to countless Filipinos who have been struggling with various illnesses," he said. In addition to the medical benefits, the Mindanaoan will also highlight the potential economic benefits of legalizing marijuana, particularly in terms of job creation and revenue generation. "Legalizing marijuana can also provide a much-needed economic boost for the country. The establishment of marijuana plantations can create employment opportunities and bring in additional revenue for the national and especially the local governments," he explained.

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