TAGBINA, SURIGAO DEL SUR — A public school principal in Surigao del Sur was arrested in a buy-bust operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), with authorities seizing sachets of suspected shabu and marked money during the sting. The arrest has raised alarm over the involvement of an education official in illegal drug activities.

On March 20, 2026, operatives from PDEA Regional Office 13, in coordination with the Tagbina Municipal Police Station, conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay Poblacion that resulted in the arrest of a 45-year-old male school principal, identified as a District 1 School Supervisor holding the rank of Principal III.

Authorities confirmed that the suspect had been under extensive surveillance and verification after reports from the community linked him to illegal drug activities. “Prior to the operation, the suspect had been subjected to extensive verification and surveillance by different drug law enforcement units to validate and confirm his involvement in illegal drug activities within the area,” PDEA said in a statement.

During the operation, two heat-sealed transparent plastic sachets containing suspected shabu were confiscated, along with the marked buy-bust money used in the transaction. The seized items were immediately documented and will serve as evidence in the case.

The arrest has sparked concern among education officials and the public, as the suspect held a position of trust and responsibility in the school system. Authorities emphasized that the involvement of a principal in illegal drug activities undermines public confidence and poses a serious threat to the moral guidance expected from educators.

PDEA stressed that the operation is part of its continuing campaign to dismantle drug networks in Caraga and protect communities from the influence of illegal substances. The suspect is now facing charges for violation of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act 9165).

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in the government’s anti-drug campaign, particularly the disturbing reality of individuals in positions of authority being implicated in the illegal drug trade. Authorities vowed to intensify surveillance and enforcement efforts to ensure accountability and safeguard the integrity of public institutions.