A public school teacher and his live-in partner are now in custody after being arrested in a drug buy-bust operation in Barangay Poblacion, Compostela, Davao de Oro, authorities said.
The suspects were apprehended past 2 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, during an operation conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Davao de Oro.
The teacher, identified only by the alias “Elmer,” is 51 years old and employed in a public school. He was arrested along with his partner, identified as “Jenny.”
According to PDEA, the teacher allegedly sold illegal drugs to an undercover agent who posed as a buyer. The transaction led to the immediate arrest of the suspects at the scene.
Authorities recovered suspected shabu worth an estimated P110,000 during the operation.
The live-in partner was also taken into custody, with investigators saying she was allegedly involved as an accomplice in the illegal activity in the area.
Both suspects are expected to face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
The operation was carried out with support from the Davao de Oro Police Provincial Office and the Compostela Municipal Police Station.
Officials have not released further details regarding the suspects’ backgrounds or whether additional arrests may follow.
The suspects remain detained as authorities prepare the filing of formal complaints in court.
