Authorities arrested two Chinese nationals for the illegal practice of medicine in Parañaque City, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) reported Wednesday.

CIDG chief Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said operatives apprehended the suspects, identified as Huan and Jian, at the Imperial Plaza Residence in Barangay Tambo on Tuesday. They face charges for violating Republic Act (RA) 3720, as amended by RA 9711 (The Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009), and RA 2382 (The Medical Act of 1959).

The suspects were also accused of illegally manufacturing, selling, and distributing adulterated or misbranded medical products. Confiscated from them were boxes of assorted medicines, medical supplies and equipment, surgical instruments, an ultrasound diagnostic laptop, notebooks of medical procedures, and Chinese prescription receipts.

Authorities confirmed that the foreigners lacked the necessary licenses and permits to practice medicine or operate a medical facility in the country.

Torre emphasized that the government remains committed to protecting public health by ensuring strict regulation of food, drugs, and medical services. “The State upholds the right to health of the Filipino people and maintains an effective health product regulatory system to ensure safety and quality,” he said.