NBI DISMANTLES ILLEGAL MAKATI CLINIC

THE National Bureau of Investigation – Special Action Unit (NBI-SAU) arrested six foreign nationals and a Filipino  for illegal practice of medicine and unauthorized sale of prescription drugs in Makati City.

The operation targeted a high-end facility in Makati City following reports that the establishment was conducting invasive medical procedures without the required government permits.

The NBI-SAU launched an investigation after receiving intelligence regarding the clinic’s suspicious activities. Verification with the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) confirmed that the foreign nationals involved did not possess the required licenses or Special Temporary Permits to practice medicine in the Philippines.

Evidence gathered during the surveillance revealed that the clinic was charging patients P220,000 for hair transplant procedures.

The subsequent entrapment operation led to the immediate arrest of four foreign nationals caught in the act of performing invasive medical procedures.

Additionally, the clinic’s foreign management was arrested for orchestrating the unauthorized practice, alongside a Filipino receptionist detained for her involvement in the facility’s illegal operations.

Following the arrests, the NBI-SAU discovered the clinic was dispensing prescription drugs without a valid License to Operate (LTO) from the FDA and lacked the required supervision of a licensed pharmacist.

The suspects were presented for inquest proceedings before the Makati City Office of the Prosecutor for violations of Section 28 of R.A. 2382 (Medical Act of 1959) and Section 45(e) and (d) of R.A. 10918 (Philippine Pharmacy Act).

The NBI is unwavering in its mission to dismantle “fly-by-night” medical operations that prey on the public,” said  NBI Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag.

“Choosing unlicensed facilities and uncertified practitioners isn’t just a risk—it is a direct threat to life. We will not allow the health of our citizens to be compromised by those operating outside the law,” he added.