By Staff Reporter

MANILA, Philippines — Four people have been arrested in separate operations in Iloilo and Cebu for allegedly practicing dentistry without the required professional licenses, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) said a 22-year-old woman, identified by the alias “Maymay,” was arrested in Jaro, Iloilo City, on Monday after allegedly offering dental services through social media.

Police said Maymay was offering do-it-yourself dental braces for P3,000 and brace removal for P1,500. She allegedly provided other services, including teeth whitening and denture installation, either through home service or at a makeshift clinic inside her residence.

Authorities said their investigation found that Maymay had no formal education or professional training in dentistry and did not hold a professional license. Police alleged that she learned the procedures through online video tutorials.

Maymay was charged under Republic Act No. 9484, or the Philippine Dental Act, in connection with Republic Act No. 10175, the Cybercrime Prevention Act. She posted P30,000 bail and was released from police custody.

In a separate operation in Cebu, the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested three Vietnamese nationals in Barangay Tipolo, Mandaue City, on Monday.

The arrests followed a complaint filed by the local chapter of the Philippine Dental Association.

Police said the three suspects were caught allegedly performing dental procedures, including tooth extraction, without the required Certificate of Registration, Professional Identification Card and special permit from the Professional Regulatory Board of Dentistry.

The three Vietnamese nationals, whose identities were not released, were taken into custody and are facing possible charges under Republic Act No. 9484.

Authorities have warned the public against seeking dental treatment from unlicensed practitioners, saying such procedures can pose serious risks to patients’ health and safety.