No. Kratom remains unregulated under Philippine drug laws but faces strict import controls. The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) has not listed it as a prohibited substance, yet the Bureau of Customs (BOC) enforces a de facto ban by seizing shipments under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Local health authorities, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have not approved kratom for medical or recreational use, citing insufficient safety data.
Key Regulations for Kratom in Philippines
- Import Prohibition: The BOC classifies kratom as a controlled substance under DDB Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001, requiring special permits for any importation, which are rarely granted.
- Local Distribution Ban: The FDA prohibits the sale, advertisement, or distribution of kratom products, including teas or capsules, under FDA Circular No. 2019-010.
- Penalties for Possession: While possession alone is not criminalized, individuals found with kratom face confiscation and potential prosecution under anti-drug trafficking laws if linked to unpermitted importation.
Recent shifts in 2026 compliance frameworks suggest the DDB may reclassify kratom as a regulated narcotic, aligning with ASEAN drug control standards. Stakeholders in the herbal supplement industry should monitor updates from the DDB and FDA to preempt regulatory changes.