Hailing from Angeles City, Philippines originally, Ian has found his true community in Laurel, MD. He has really come into full stride since starting in the Cannabis industry in May of 2024. When he’s not at the dispensary you can find him rooting for the Orioles or cutting up on the dance floor at concerts. Be sure to show Ian some love when you stop by Revolution Releaf.
In what ways have you seen technology help or harm the Cannabis industry?
I’ve honestly seen Cannabis consumption become a lot safer and healthier. I personally do a lot of GBs (gravity bong hits), which traditionally use plastic pieces. Since working here, I’ve found technology like the Gravitron, which I feel is much healthier for me. Also, it’s crazy that we can use debit cards to buy weed now, versus the traditional market, which was obviously strictly cash.
Do you dab or smoke flower?
I mostly smoke flower, but I have started to put concentrates in my blunts and gravity bong hits. I’m a big fan of Camden Yards Kush sugar from Organic Remedies because I’m a huge Orioles guy.
Why do they call you the “Cannabis Cowboy”?
This life is a rodeo, bro. I left a job with benefits and guaranteed financial security to join the Cannabis industry because I believe in this community so much. Around here, the Cannabis community really rallies for and supports each other.
What kind of music are you into?
I’m into pop punk. Bands like Blink-182, Paramore, The Maine — there really are too many more to count. I went to Sad Summer at Merriweather, and Mayday Parade was the headliner. I got into the pit and got very close to my favorite artists, and I just feel really connected to the scene.
Did you grow up in the Philippines? What was it like?
I didn’t grow up there, but I was born there and came here when I was four years old. This community in Laurel has seen me grow up — from working at the pool to the hospital, working in shoes, and eventually coming here. A core memory from the Philippines would be the street food vendors coming to your house. They would come by, and I’d bother my mom for 40 pesos so I could get food for me and my sister.
What is Cannabis culture like now in the Philippines?
I don’t know how to describe a budtender to a family member back home because they can only see it as a drug dealer. The last president we had went as far as killing drug dealers, which is ironic because his kids ended up becoming the biggest ones of all.
What makes working in the Cannabis industry so special?
Other than seeing the people I see every day, the community surrounding the store and this area. We had a back-to-school drive, and the community brought in a ton of stuff for the kids, which is important to me. Also, knowing what is in the weed we’re smoking now is important to me, from genetic makeup to terpene profiles.
What type of vibe do you like to bring into the workplace?
I want the dispensary to be a safe space for everybody. If you’re a patient, I want to make sure we get you the right product you need. Having worked when it was strictly medical, I know how important it can be to get the right thing for what you’re trying to accomplish. Everyone has a reason for using Cannabis, and I want to help people find what helps them.
