MANILA – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested a Vietnamese national in Manila for the illegal practice of medicine and related violations during an entrapment operation.

The NBI Dangerous Drugs Division (NBI-DDD) identified the suspect as Hoang Thi Hai Yen, also known as “Van Pahm” and “Doc. Yen.” She was apprehended on September 2, 2025, for violating provisions of the Medical Act of 1959, the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, the Consumer Act of the Philippines, the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009, and the Philippine Pharmacy Act.

The case stemmed from reports that a group of Vietnamese nationals had been offering cosmetic treatments and surgeries without authorization from the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC). They were also accused of dispensing medicines without the required Certificate of Registration (COR) and License to Operate (LTO) from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

During the operation, NBI agents posing as patients arranged a procedure with “Doc. Yen” at her clinic in Manila. A cosmetic treatment worth ₱105,000 was offered to the poseur-patient before operatives moved in to arrest her.

Authorities said the suspect failed to present a Professional Identification Card from the PRC, as well as FDA-issued COR and LTO. She has since been presented for inquest proceedings.