On May 29, 2025, at around 1:30 PM, operatives of the Cotabato Provincial Cyber Response Team (PCRT) conducted an entrapment operation in Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, resulting in the arrest of a recently married couple, alias “Gerald,” 24, and alias “Julia,” 20, for offering unauthorized dental procedures online.

The operation was initiated following the intensified cyber patrolling of the Cotabato PCRT, which aimed to track down illegal dental services being promoted on social media. During which, operatives discovered a Facebook page managed by the suspects, offering various dental procedures, including oral prophylaxis, teeth whitening, and dental braces, at significantly lower prices, and falsely presenting themselves as licensed dental professionals. Upon coordination with the Philippine Dental Association, it was confirmed that neither of the suspects is a licensed dentist or authorized to conduct any dental procedures.

Further investigation revealed that the couple offered their services either through home visits or at a makeshift clinic. “Julia” was found to be the one performing the dental procedures, assisted by her husband.

Both suspects are facing charges for violation of Section 33 of RA No. 9484 (Philippine Dental Act of 2007), in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).

The operation was in line with the directive of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief of the PNP, to continue strengthening cyber patrolling and take immediate legal action to ensure public safety in the digital environment.

Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), commended the Team for the successful operation. “The PNP ACG reminds everyone to always verify the credentials of professionals before availing of their services to avoid potential harm. If you encounter individuals offering illegal services online, report them immediately to the nearest ACG office so we can take immediate action,” he said.