Is Weed Legal in Philippines?

Recreational cannabis is illegal in the Philippines and classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Possession of 500 grams or more carries life imprisonment and a fine of between 500,000 and 10 million PHP; smaller quantities still carry mandatory minimums of twelve years and one day to twenty years. Cultivation, sale, importation, or maintenance of a den can carry life imprisonment or, prior to RA 9346 in 2006, the death penalty.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is the lead enforcement body, with the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) setting policy and the Department of Justice prosecuting cases. The country's anti-drug enforcement environment has been intensive, and possession charges routinely produce long custodial sentences. Diplomatic missions advise foreign nationals that no medical or personal-use defence is recognised.

Last reviewed: August 6, 2026.

This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Verify current law with qualified counsel before making compliance decisions.