Philippines

Penalties for possessing, using or trafficking illegal drugs in the Philippines are strictly enforced.

Significant prison terms, substantial fines, and in severe cases life imprisonment.

Medical marijuana is illegal in the Philippines even with a foreign prescription, and bringing marijuana or cannabis products (including vape cartridges) can be charged as drug trafficking.

Non-bailable offense with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

Cannabis is completely illegal in the Philippines, including for medical use -- a foreign prescription or medical-marijuana card counts for nothing. Bringing in any amount, even a vape cartridge or a gummy, can be charged as drug importation, an offence carrying up to life imprisonment regardless of quantity, and simple possession of under 300 grams still carries 12 years and 1 day to 20 years plus a fine of 300,000 to 400,000 pesos. Being caught with any quantity at a party or in the company of at least two other people automatically raises it to the maximum penalty.

Possession of under 300 g of marijuana: 12 years and 1 day to 20 years plus a fine of 300,000 to 400,000 pesos. 300 g to under 500 g, or 5 g to under 10 g of resin or resin oil: 20 years and 1 day to life imprisonment. 500 g or more, or 10 g or more of resin or resin oil: life imprisonment plus a fine of 500,000 to 10,000,000 pesos. Importing any quantity: up to life imprisonment. Possession at a party, social gathering, or in the company of at least two people: the maximum penalty regardless of quantity (s. 13). First offence for use: a minimum of 6 months' rehabilitation.

Carry prescription medication in its original packaging and confirm with the Philippine Bureau of Customs that it is legal before bringing it in.

Unverified medication may be detained at the border.

Local currency is capped at PHP 50,000 and foreign currency over USD 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared on entry and exit.

Undeclared amounts over the threshold may be seized.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is treated harshly in the Philippines.

Could land you immediately in jail.

You may be questioned by authorities for photographing certain buildings, especially government buildings or military installations in the Philippines.

Questioning by authorities

Same-sex relationships are not illegal but lack legal recognition, and no national law bars discrimination, though some cities have protective ordinances.