(Manila, 19th) — Former Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral fell to her death in a gorge along Kennon Road in Tuba City, Benguet Province, on Thursday night, sparking heightened concern from authorities. On Friday, Philippine National Police Officer-in-Charge Jose Melencio Nartates stated that he has ordered the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group as well as the Cordillera police to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the incident to determine the cause of death and relevant background.
Nartates pointed out that while initial indications suggest an accidental nature, police will not rule out any possibilities pending confirmation by the medical examiner. Cabral had been involved in some controversies concerning flood control projects during her lifetime, and the police investigation will also encompass related angles. At the same time, Cabral’s driver has been listed as a subject of interest in the investigation; police will retrieve his cell phone and related evidence to assist in the probe.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos stated that Cabral’s remains are undergoing autopsy and DNA testing to confirm her identity. He emphasized that the investigation into the flood control projects will not cease because of her death; the government will continue to pursue those suspected of embezzling public funds, regardless of whether they are alive or deceased.
Malacañang spokesperson Claire Castro, on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., conveyed condolences to Cabral’s family and reiterated the President’s respect for the family’s privacy, noting that no investigative orders regarding the cause of death have been issued and that Cabral faced no criminal charges during her lifetime.
On the Senate side, Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Acting President Panfilo Lacson urged the public not to make hasty assumptions about the nature of the case, stressing that facts should be determined by law enforcement agencies. Senator Jinggoy Estrada also reminded society to respect the period of mourning and provide space and understanding to the family.
This incident has attracted widespread national attention, not only prompting public scrutiny of the controversies surrounding flood control projects but also prompting government and judicial authorities to pledge strict adherence to the law to ensure accountability and the truth come to light.
Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos stated that Cabral’s remains are undergoing autopsy and DNA testing to confirm her identity. He emphasized that the investigation into the flood control projects will not cease because of her death; the government will continue to pursue those suspected of embezzling public funds, regardless of whether they are alive or deceased.
Malacañang spokesperson Claire Castro, on behalf of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., conveyed condolences to Cabral’s family and reiterated the President’s respect for the family’s privacy, noting that no investigative orders regarding the cause of death have been issued and that Cabral faced no criminal charges during her lifetime.
On the Senate side, Senate President Vicente Sotto III and Acting President Panfilo Lacson urged the public not to make hasty assumptions about the nature of the case, stressing that facts should be determined by law enforcement agencies. Senator Jinggoy Estrada also reminded society to respect the period of mourning and provide space and understanding to the family.
This incident has attracted widespread national attention, not only prompting public scrutiny of the controversies surrounding flood control projects but also prompting government and judicial authorities to pledge strict adherence to the law to ensure accountability and the truth come to light.