A teacher from Dagupan City shocked his school and community after he was arrested in a police drug operation that seized over P1.2 million worth of suspected shabu.

The Department of Education (DepEd) Dagupan City assured the public that it is not taking lightly the arrest of a teacher caught with illegal drugs.

In an official statement posted on its Facebook page, the Schools Division Office confirmed it is cooperating with authorities.

“DepEd Dagupan City will ensure that appropriate measures are taken to address any impact on our schools and to reinforce our commitment to a safe and nurturing learning environment,” the statement reads.

Dagupan police arrested the suspect during the service of a warrant in Barangay Pantal on April 8.

Authorities recovered suspected shabu worth over P1.2 million from his home.

The arrest came as a surprise to many, especially his colleagues at Pantal Elementary School, where the suspect had been teaching since 2012.

“[He's a] dependable fellow to his colleagues. Nalulungkot kami dahil may kasama kaming na-involve sa ganiyang issue,” Dr. John Silvester Alipio, Principal III of the school, said.

Barangay officials were also caught off guard.

“Isa raw siyang respetadong guro at mapagmahal sa kaniyang mga mag-aaral… Kung puwede lang, drug-free ang Pantal. Maski sino, gusto nilang maging drug-free ang barangay,” Barangay Chairperson Julita Perez said.

Police have already filed charges against the suspect, who remains in detention at the Dagupan City Police Station. He declined to give a statement.