PDEA: Beware of mescalineThe PDEA said mescaline poses serious health risks to people since it is classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, as well as the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances. MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yesterday warned the public about mescaline, a prohibited dangerous drug found in the cactus species Lophophora williamsii, commonly known as peyote. The PDEA said mescaline poses serious health risks to people since it is classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act, as well as the 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances. Only Lophophora williamsii, which contains mescaline, is prohibited by law. The PDEA said laboratory analysis is required to determine whether a suspected Lophophora specimen contains mescaline, a psychedelic hallucinogen.

Source: Philippine Star January 12, 2026 16:37 UTC