VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — A 20-year-old second-year college student was arrested for allegedly practicing dentistry without authorization after police caught him operating a makeshift dental clinic inside a boarding house in Barangay Batangan, Valencia City, on Monday afternoon, October 19, 2026.
The suspect, identified as Loyd Braces, single and a second-year student, was apprehended by operatives of the Philippine National Police Regional Anti-Cyber Response Unit-10 (RACU-10) shortly after noon at Purok 2A, Laviña Village, according to the police report.
Authorities reportedly caught the suspect in the act of performing dental procedures at the boarding house, which he had allegedly converted into an improvised clinic. His activities were suspected to constitute the unauthorized practice of dentistry, raising concerns over the potential risks to clients who sought dental services from someone allegedly operating without the required professional authorization.
The suspect reportedly attempted to escape when operatives moved to arrest him. He sustained multiple wounds on his feet during the attempted getaway but was eventually subdued and handcuffed by the pursuing officers.
Online bookings, fees of up to ₱5,000 per session
During the operation, the student reportedly admitted that he had been carrying out the alleged illegal dental practice for approximately two months.
He allegedly obtained clients through online bookings and charged between ₱3,000 and ₱5,000 per session, according to the police account.
The reported use of online booking platforms highlights how digital channels can facilitate the promotion and arrangement of services that may require professional licenses and regulatory oversight. However, the available information does not specify which online platforms were used or how many clients the suspect had served during the two-month period.
The case also underscores the importance of verifying a dental practitioner’s professional credentials before agreeing to undergo procedures, particularly those involving braces, retainers and other dental appliances that require appropriate training, proper equipment and professional supervision.
Dental equipment and marked money seized
Authorities recovered various tools and equipment allegedly used in the operation of the makeshift clinic.
Among the items reportedly seized were ligature ties, a dental vibrator, a high-volume vacuum device, machines and other dental-related instruments, as well as boodle money used during the operation.
The police operation was carried out by Valencia City police personnel in coordination with the complainant, a dentist affiliated with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), Bukidnon Chapter.
The dentist’s participation provided professional-sector support to the operation targeting the alleged unauthorized practice of dentistry.
Authorities have not provided further details on whether any of the suspect’s clients had suffered injuries or complications, or whether additional individuals may be implicated in the case.
Suspect faces charges under the Philippine Dental Act and Cybercrime Prevention Act
The arrested student is expected to face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9484, or the Philippine Dental Act of 2007, in relation to Section 6 of Republic Act No. 10175, or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, according to the police report.
RA 9484 governs the practice of dentistry in the Philippines, including the professional qualifications and regulatory requirements applicable to dental practitioners. Meanwhile, Section 6 of RA 10175 provides for the application of penalties one degree higher when crimes defined under the Revised Penal Code or special laws are committed through information and communications technologies, subject to the law’s applicable provisions.
The precise legal basis for applying the cybercrime provision will be determined through the appropriate legal process.
The arrest serves as a reminder that dental procedures should be entrusted to properly qualified and authorized practitioners. Braces installation and other dental treatments can involve risks when performed without adequate professional competence, proper infection-control measures and appropriate clinical standards.
The suspect remains entitled to due process, and the allegations against him must be resolved by the courts.