On July 21, 2025, at about 2:55 PM in Cotabato City, operatives of the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RACU BAR) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) conducted an entrapment operation that led to the arrest of a 24-year-old, first-year college woman, alias “Sab,” for offering unauthorized dental services online.

The operation stemmed from the proactive cyber patrolling of RACU BAR, during which they came across a Facebook post of the suspect offering complete do-it-yourself dental braces for Php1,300.00.

The investigation revealed that “Sab” had learned the procedure through online video tutorials and had no formal education, license, or training in dentistry. “Sab” admitted that she had been offering the unauthorized services for about a year, and it was her means of supporting her school expenses.

“Sab” is facing charges for violation of Section 22 in relation to 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 supports the directive of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, Chief of the PNP, to strengthen cyber patrolling and take immediate legal action to ensure that cybercriminals do not have a place on social media platforms. Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP ACG, commended the Unit for the successful operation. “We urge everyone to be cautious when seeking professional services on the internet. Only trust licensed practitioners. If you encounter suspicious or unauthorized dental providers, report them immediately to the nearest ACG office so we can act swiftly to prevent further harm,” he said.