MALAYBALAY CITY, BUKIDNON — A 32-year-old woman was arrested by operatives of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit (RACU) in Bukidnon at around 3:00 p.m. after she was allegedly found offering and performing dental services without a professional license.
The operation was reportedly carried out at a boarding house in Purok 2, Barangay 3, Malaybalay City, following a complaint filed by the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) Bukidnon Chapter.
The woman, identified through her Facebook name “Kate,” allegedly promoted dental services through social media. Authorities said she is a resident of Alae, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, and has three children and a live-in partner.
According to the report, the arrest stemmed from allegations that she had been illegally installing braces and retainers despite not being a licensed dentist.
The alleged act was cited as a violation of Republic Act No. 9484, or the Philippine Dental Act of 2007, which regulates the practice of dentistry and sets the qualifications and licensing requirements for individuals performing dental procedures.
Authorities reportedly recovered several dental instruments and materials from the suspect, including a nail drill, mouth mirror, low-speed bur, ligatures, wire cutter, explorer, cotton pliers, glass slab, power chain, cheek retractor, and a low-speed micromotor handpiece.
A Realme cellphone, a key chain, her driver’s license, and other items were also reportedly taken into custody as part of the operation.
The case highlights concerns over the risks posed when dental procedures are performed by individuals who are not properly licensed or professionally trained. Orthodontic procedures such as the installation and adjustment of braces and retainers require appropriate dental knowledge and clinical assessment to avoid potential complications.
The suspect was reportedly brought to the Malaybalay City Police Station for detention and processing of the case. She is expected to face charges related to the alleged illegal practice of dentistry.
Authorities and dental professionals continue to remind the public to verify the credentials and professional license of anyone offering dental services, particularly those advertising procedures through social media.