Manila: The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has issued a warning to the public regarding the spread of 'Peyote' (Lophophora williamsii), a spineless cactus that contains 'mescaline,' a hallucinogenic substance classified as dangerous. PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez highlighted the concern after reports emerged of Peyote cacti being sold on local online shopping platforms.

According to Philippines News Agency, mescaline is identified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. It is further listed as a controlled substance in the 1971 United Nations Single Convention on Psychotropic Substances. The substance is known for its strong hallucinogenic effects, which can significantly impair judgment and perception, leading to symptoms like intense nausea, vomiting, pupil dilation, headaches, muscle weakness, and loss of motor coordination.

The cactus can be consumed by orally ingesting fresh or dried forms, grounding it into powder for gelatin capsules, or smoking it with cannabis or tobacco. Nerez warned that mescaline abuse can result in illusions, hallucinations, distorted body perception, and altered space and time perception, potentially leading to accidents, self-harm, and unpredictable behavior.

Historically, the 'Peyote' cactus has been utilized for centuries in indigenous rituals by Native Americans and Mexicans. Nerez emphasized that the public must recognize 'Peyote' as a dangerous drug source rather than an ornamental plant. He urged the public to report any sightings or sales of this hazardous plant, which may be smuggled or locally cultivated and sold online to avoid detection.

Nerez stressed PDEA's commitment to safeguarding Filipinos from substances that pose threats to health and safety, stating that the agency will not permit 'Peyote' to infiltrate communities.