MANILA (AsiaNews/Agencies): Authorities in the Philippine authorities identified and cracked down on some clandestine medical clinics, reserved for foreigners and dedicated to treating those infected with the Covid-19 coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Investigators discovered the underground activity, following the arrest in Makati in recent days of two Chinese citizens, who claimed to be doctors managing specialised Covid-19 nursing homes.
Justice minister, Mendardo Guevarra,was quoted by the Straits Times as saying, “It seems that clandestine medical clinics catering mostly to foreign nationals have sprouted and have been operating without proper authority,” warning that health of those seeking treatment in these illegal facilities is compromised.
The justice secretary said he ordered the National Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Immigration to locate the clandestine clinics and file charges against the people running them. Orders were also issued to track down thos who had sought treatment as they could still pose a threat of infection.
The two Chinese citizens, 49-year-old David Lai and 41-year-old Bruce Liao Songhua, carried no identification documents. Both were charged with practicing medicine without authorisations, including prescribing medications and violating the provisions on infectious diseases.
During raid, the agents allegedly found four Chinese patients, three men and a woman, who showed symptoms of Covid-19.
The housing unit containing the illegal clinic was rented on January 7 for a sum of over $18,600 a month. Inside, the police found “boxes and kits for the coronavirus test, some Chinese medicines and Viagra” as well as a computer with the list of patients treated since March.
Previously, two other Chinese citizens, already released, were detained on 18 May in a villa in Clark Freeport, north of Manila. According to a source, the pair, 45-year-old Hu Ling, and 38-year-old Lee Seung Hyun, were in possession of a regular residence permit, but were not authorised to treat patients or practice medicine.
The two are now under investigation and face trial. Investigators seized medicines and medical supplies did not have certification from the Philippine Food and Drug Administration. Both on an alert list prohibited from leaving the country until the investigation is completed, and face the possibility of indictment and civil action against.
The Philippines recorded 18,997 infections as of June 3, with 966 deaths. Nevertheless, the president Rodrigo Duterte ordered the relaxation of restrictions in certain areas.
