Agents of the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) have arrested three Vietnamese nationals for allegedly practicing medicine illegally in the country.
PNP-CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas D. Torre III identified the suspects as Julie Nguyen, Luna Pham, and Ryan Truong, who introduced themselves as doctors and provided medical and cosmetic treatments without proper licenses.
The three were apprehended during an entrapment operation at Lavish Beauty Lounge in Imus City, Cavite, on Thursday at around 8:30 p.m. The operation was conducted by CIDG’s Detection and Special Operations Unit, with assistance from the Naval Intelligence and Security Group.
According to Torre, the suspects performed stem cell injections, hair regrowth treatments, body sculpting, bio-stimulation collagen procedures, and other derma-related services without the necessary medical licenses and operational permits.
Authorities seized a large quantity of medicines, medical and cosmetic products, and related equipment, along with notebooks documenting medical procedures, prescription medications, and receipts issued to clients.
Torre reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting public health, ensuring that only duly licensed professionals are allowed to practice medicine in the country. He warned that unlicensed medical practice poses serious risks to public safety.
“This operation serves as a warning to all individuals, both local and foreign, engaging in illegal activities. The CIDG remains relentless in its mission to prevent and solve crimes,” Torre stated.
He urged the public to report any instances of illegal medical practice or other criminal activities to authorities for immediate action.
The arrested individuals have been charged before the National Prosecution Office for violating Republic Act 2382 (The Medical Act of 1959), which penalizes the unauthorized practice of medicine in the Philippines.