VVA Chapter PI 887

Allen “Pop” Reeves American Legion Post 123

U.S. Embassy Manila, Philippines

U.S. Consular Agency Cebu, Philippines

January 17, 2025

Important Reminder: Marijuana and THC Laws in the Philippines

The U.S. Embassy in Manila would like to remind all U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the Philippines about the country’s strict drug laws, including those related to marijuana and THC-containing products such as vape cartridges. Violations of these laws can result in severe consequences, including arrest, significant fines, and long detentions.

Key Points to Remember:

Marijuana is illegal in the Philippines: This includes all forms of marijuana, whether for recreational or medical use, regardless of its legal status in the United States or other countries.

Possession of THC-containing products is prohibited: Vape cartridges, oils, edibles, and other items containing THC are illegal drugs under Philippine law. Possessing marijuana-related paraphernalia, such as pipes, may also lead to immigration or legal penalties.

Medical marijuana is not recognized: Even if prescribed by a doctor in the United States, possession of marijuana or THC in the Philippines is not permitted.

Strict enforcement at airports: Numerous U.S. citizens and other foreigners have been arrested at airports upon arrival or departure after authorities discovered small amounts of marijuana or THC products in their luggage, including items they may have forgotten were packed.

Consequences of Violating Philippine Drug Laws:

Arrest and detention in local facilities, which can be challenging environments.

Lengthy judicial processes and significant legal fees.

Potential deportation and blacklisting after serving a sentence.

What to Do:

* Familiarize yourself with Philippine drug laws before traveling. * * * Avoid bringing any products containing marijuana, THC, CBD, or items used to store or consume these products into the Philippines.

* Check your luggage carefully before traveling to ensure it doesn’t contain items that are illegal in the Philippines.

The U.S. Embassy stands ready to assist U.S. citizens in the event of an emergency. However, we cannot intervene in the judicial process or secure your release if you are arrested for violating Philippine law.

_____________________________________________________________________________

For further information:

* See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Advisories, Alerts, and the Philippines Country Specific Information.

* Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

* Contact the U.S. Embassy in Manila, Philippines, located at 1201 Roxas Boulevard, at +(63) (2) 5301-2000, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +(63) (2) 5301-2000.

* Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).

* Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.