By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

NABBED. Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives arrest three Vietnamese nationals in the act of performing a dental procedure without the necessary permits in an operation in Mandaue City, Cebu on Monday (Aug. 10, 2026). CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II said Wednesday (Aug. 12) that the operation stemmed from a complaint lodged by the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) Mandaue Chapter, concerning the alleged illegal practice of dentistry by these foreigners. (Photos courtesy of CIDG)

MANILA – Authorities nabbed three Vietnamese nationals involved in the illegal practice of dentistry in Cebu province.

In a news release on Wednesday, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Chief Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II said the operation in Barangay Tipolo, Mandaue City, on Aug. 10 stemmed from a complaint lodged by the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), Mandaue Chapter, regarding the alleged illegal practice of dentistry by these foreigners.

He said the CIDG operatives caught the suspects while performing a tooth extraction procedure without the required Certificate of Registration, Professional Identification Card, and special permit issued by the Professional Regulatory Board of Dentistry of the Philippines.

Morico said the suspects will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 9484 (The Philippine Dental Act of 2007).

“Allowing an unlicensed individual—such as a foreign national to practice dentistry or perform dental procedures without a Certificate of Registration, license, or a Special Temporary Permit from a regulating body poses danger and health risks to the patients, and a total lack of legal accountability,” said Morico.

The CIDG assures the public that it is steadfast and committed to protecting public health by eradicating all illegal practices of medicine and dentistry across the country. (PNA)