REVIVING THE GOOD SIDE OF THE HEMP INDUSTRY

REVIVING THE GOOD SIDE OF THE HEMP INDUSTRY It seems there are two sides to the hemp industry: the good side and the bad side. Unfortunately, because of the bad side, the good side has also been effectively shut down. The ban extends beyond the harmful use of cannabis to all forms of hemp-related products, even though many of them are perfectly legal and beneficial. The good side of hemp includes a wide range of applications. Hemp is a versatile plant used to produce textiles, clothing, paper, construction materials, food, drinks, health and beauty products, fuels, ropes, and nets. It’s an incredibly sustainable crop, offering environmental benefits like soil improvement and carbon sequestration. Despite its potential, hemp cultivation remains prohibited in the Philippines due to its association with marijuana. While marijuana is a banned substance in many countries, it has been legalized for recreational use in some places and for medical purposes in others. Both hemp and marijuana come from the Cannabis sativa plant, but the difference lies in the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content. Hemp contains very low levels of THC, the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. However, the Dangerous Drugs Act of 1972 (Republic Act No. 6425) does not differentiate between the two, classifying all forms of cannabis as illegal. Is this a classic case of “throwing the baby out with the bathwater”? By banning the entire cannabis plant, we are also eliminating industries that could provide significant economic opportunities. A large portion of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and cottage industries could benefit from hemp cultivation and processing, creating jobs and fostering rural development. The real problem is the difficulty of regulating the plant. Without stringent controls, the risk of harvested hemp being diverted for illegal purposes remains. But surely, there are ways to address this. A Call for Controlled Hemp Zones One suggestion is to establish specialized economic zones where hemp cultivation is strictly monitored. In these zones, hemp could be grown and processed in regulated environments, ensuring every harvest is accounted for. This strategy would minimize the risk of illegal diversion while supporting legitimate businesses. Forming a Technical Working Group The Department of Agriculture (DA) should lead the way in creating a Technical Working Group (TWG) to study the feasibility of reviving the hemp industry. This TWG could include the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and academic institutions like the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). Through collaborative research and pilot projects, the TWG could assess how to balance the economic benefits of hemp production with effective regulatory measures. Lessons could be learned from countries like the United States and Canada, where hemp is legally grown under clear guidelines. Alternative Uses and Environmental Benefits In addition to economic potential, hemp presents numerous environmental benefits. Hemp is known for its ability to restore degraded soil and requires minimal pesticide use. It also absorbs significant amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change mitigation. Furthermore, researchers are exploring the potential of hemp as a sustainable alternative for construction materials like hempcrete, which is durable, energy-efficient, and carbon-negative. Moving Forward Revisiting the hemp ban does not mean endorsing marijuana use. It simply means recognizing the plant’s diverse applications and regulating its cultivation for industrial purposes. There is no doubt that strict regulations and law enforcement are necessary. However, with careful planning, the good side of the hemp industry can be revived without compromising public safety. If you have thoughts on how we can achieve this balance, I’d love to hear from you. After all, finding solutions together is how we can ensure sustainable progress for our industries and communities. Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com 05-12-2025