Manila: The Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) announced on Thursday that an unlicensed dentist was arrested for illegally offering dental services online in Cotabato City. In a press briefing at Camp Crame, ACG spokesperson Lt. Wallen Mae Arancillo said the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RACU BAR) operatives nabbed the 26-year-old suspect, alias Jaja, in an entrapment operation inside her residence on March 12.
According to Philippines News Agency, the operation stemmed from RACU BAR’s cyber patrolling that led to the discovery on March 10 of Jaja’s Facebook post introducing herself as a dentist who offers dental services, including teeth brace installation for PHP1,000. Recovered at the scene were various dental equipment and materials, assorted medicines, and uninstalled dentures.
Arancillo explained that the suspect practiced inadequate hygiene, merely sterilizing tools in hot water, which is improper for dental procedures. She also noted the lack of appropriate dental equipment and tools in the suspect’s clinic. Coordination with the Philippine Dental Association confirmed that the suspect is not a licensed dentist.
The ACG urged the public to be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true, as cheap dental services might pose health risks. The suspect will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9484, or the Philippine Dental Act of 2007, in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 or Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012.
