Authorities have arrested three Vietnamese nationals in Cavite for allegedly practicing medicine without the necessary licenses and permits, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) announced on Sunday.

The suspects, identified as Julie Nguyen, Luna Pham, and Ryan Truong, were detained on 27 February at a beauty lounge in Imus City, Cavite.

They face charges under Republic Act No. 2382, also known as The Medical Act of 1959, which strictly regulates the practice of medicine in the country.

According to the CIDG, the individuals presented themselves as doctors and offered a range of medical and cosmetic procedures, including stem cell treatments, hair regrowth therapy, body sculpting, and biostimulation collagen injections.

However, they lacked the required medical licenses and permits to practice, dispense pharmaceutical products, or operate a medical facility in the Philippines.

Authorities confiscated a substantial quantity of medical supplies from the suspects, including assorted medicines, cosmetic products, prescription medications, and documents detailing medical procedures and transactions.

Legal complaints have been filed against the three before the National Prosecution Service, CIDG officials confirmed.

CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III urged the public to remain vigilant and report illegal medical practices.

“We encourage the public to report any illegal practice of medicine and other criminal activities in your localities, and your CIDG will do the rest,” he said.

Medical Malpractice

In the Philippines, Republic Act No. 2382 governs the medical profession, making it illegal for unlicensed individuals to diagnose, prescribe, or perform medical procedures.

Violators face serious penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. Additionally, Republic Act No. 10023 (The Food and Drug Administration Act) regulates the sale and distribution of medical products, ensuring safety standards are met.

Foreign nationals caught practicing medicine illegally may also face deportation and a lifetime ban from re-entering the country.

Authorities continue to crack down on unauthorized clinics, warning the public against seeking medical services from unverified practitioners.

Filipinos are advised to verify the credentials of healthcare providers through the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Department of Health (DOH) to ensure their safety.