Following the death of former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral in Benguet, the Ombudsman has ordered authorities to retrieve her cell phone and gadgets 'at ALL COST' to advance the investigation into anomalous flood control projects. Despite challenges from her death, including autopsy delays, officials emphasize securing digital evidence.
Assistant Ombudsman Mico Clavano stressed the critical need for Cabral's devices in probing her role in inserting ghost flood control projects into the National Expenditure Program, involving kickbacks. Cabral, a 40-year career DPWH official and first female undersecretary, resigned in September 2025 after accusations.
Her body was found near the Bued River in Tuba, Benguet, on December 18. While family-identified, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla mandated PNP autopsy and DNA tests to rule out faked death scenarios. A spousal waiver delayed proceedings, and police releasing gadgets to family was deemed a 'lapse' by Remulla.
Clavano called the death a 'blow' but highlighted opportunities from object evidence. Cabral last attended an Ombudsman hearing on December 3, questioned by prosecutors. DOJ Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon noted added challenges for probing higher officials, with one case for Ombudsman referral.
With family cooperation on autopsy, authorities seek the same for gadgets. The probe underscores anti-corruption efforts in DPWH projects, building on initial investigations post her death.