BHW arrested for drugs is former teacher

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz — A barangay health worker arrested recently for illegal drugs and firearm possession was a former school teacher before allegedly engaging in illegal activities, police said.

Police Capt. Dennis Losbañes, Pontevedra police chief, confirmed Friday, Jan. 30, that the suspect, identified only as alias Toto, previously worked as a teacher.

Toto was arrested in a drug buy-bust operation Saturday night, Jan. 24, in Barangay Rizal Housing, Pontevedra, Capiz.

Police said the suspect was previously arrested in 2017 in Panay town for the same offense but was released after availing himself of a plea bargaining agreement.

Based on police surveillance, authorities said the suspect returned to illegal activities about a month after his release.

Charges have been filed against him for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

Police recovered sachets of suspected shabu and an unlicensed firearm during the operation.

The suspect is currently detained at the Pontevedra Municipal Police Station for proper disposition.