Can You Buy CBD Oil in the Philippines?

CBD oil is popular worldwide for wellness and potential therapeutic use. But in the Philippines, the rules are strict and confusing for many people.

This 2026 guide explains what Philippine law and regulators generally say about CBD oil, what’s risky, and what limited legal pathway may exist for certain patients.

Quick Answer

In general, CBD oil is not treated as a normal over-the-counter wellness product in the Philippines. Cannabis and its derivatives are heavily regulated under Philippine drug laws, and authorities have publicly warned against buying CBD oil.

Why CBD Oil Is Restricted in the Philippines

The Philippines regulates “dangerous drugs” under Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Cannabis is included under this strict framework, which is why cannabis-derived products (including CBD oil) are not freely sold like supplements.

Can You Buy CBD Oil Over the Counter?

No — you generally cannot legally buy CBD oil like a typical supplement from local retail shelves. Philippine authorities have issued public advisories warning people against purchasing CBD oil and similar cannabis-derived products.

Is It Safe to Order CBD Oil Online and Ship to the Philippines?

Ordering CBD oil online and having it shipped into the Philippines can be risky. Customs inspections and law enforcement actions may treat cannabis-derived oils as regulated items, which can lead to confiscation and potential legal trouble.

Important: Even if a product is labeled “THC-free,” that label does not automatically make it legal in the Philippines. Product labeling can be inaccurate, and enforcement can still treat it as a cannabis derivative.

Is There Any Legal Pathway for CBD in the Philippines?

A limited pathway may exist for certain patients through the Philippine FDA via a Compassionate Special Permit (CSP). CSP is designed for restricted access to certain unregistered or unauthorized drug products under specific conditions and documentation requirements.

This is not an over-the-counter option. It’s a controlled, patient-specific process that typically requires medical justification and proper documentation.

Hemp Seed Oil vs. CBD Oil: Not the Same

Many products marketed online as “hemp oil” are actually hemp seed oil (oil pressed from seeds). Hemp seed oil is commonly used for food and skincare and typically contains little to no CBD.

CBD oil is extracted from cannabinoid-rich parts of the plant (such as flowers and leaves) and is regulated very differently in many countries.

How to tell the difference

  • Look for “CBD” or “cannabidiol” on the ingredient list (not just “hemp”).
  • Ask for a COA (Certificate of Analysis) from a third-party lab.
  • Check cannabinoid content (CBD mg per bottle or per serving).

Summary Table

Question Answer
Can you buy CBD oil over the counter in the Philippines? Generally, no.
Can you import CBD oil yourself by ordering online? Risky and not recommended without proper authorization.
Is there a limited legal pathway for medical access? Possibly via FDA Compassionate Special Permit (CSP) in qualifying cases.
Is hemp seed oil the same as CBD oil? No. Hemp seed oil usually has little to no CBD.

Final Word

If you’re considering CBD oil in the Philippines, the safest approach is to stay informed, avoid risky purchases, and consult a qualified medical professional if you believe you may need a regulated medical pathway.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational information only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Regulations and enforcement can change. For official guidance, consult relevant Philippine government agencies and a licensed professional.