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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DILG: Even after ex-DPWH official's death, flood control mess probe continues

DILG: Even after ex-DPWH official's death, flood control mess probe continues

Published Dec 19, 2025 04:16 pm
The investigation into the alleged corruption involving flood control projects will continue despite the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said on Friday, Dec. 19.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic” Remulla said accountability does not end with death as he stressed that authorities will pursue all those involved in the alleged scheme and recover public funds.
He said Cabral’s reported death following an alleged fall near the Bued River in Tuba, Benguet will not stop the investigation nor the effort to trace evidence and financial transactions linked to the case.
“Let me be clear, the death of a person does not mean that the wheel of justice will end. We will run after all the thieves, alive and dead. Whatever pieces of evidence are on hand, the government will initiate appropriate measures to return to the Filipinos what was stolen,” he noted.
Remulla said authorities are still pursuing money trails and documentary evidence connected to the alleged irregularities.
Cabral, who served as DPWH undersecretary for planning, was earlier identified as one of the alleged masterminds of the scheme along with former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto R. Bernardo.
According to Remulla, Cabral played a key role in approving projects and deciding fund allocations during her tenure.
“As Usec. (undersecretary) for planning, she has the say on what to do, what to approve, where to put the funds and what projects will be approved. She and Usec. Bernardo are the ones approving all of this,” he added.
Remulla added that autopsy and DNA tests will be conducted to confirm the identity of the body and determine the cause of death, including the possibility of foul play.
“The family has positively identified her but we cannot rely on that alone. Baka may budol play. Baka ibang katawan ang ginamit (There might be trickery involved. There is a possibility that another body might be used),” Remulla noted.
He warned other personalities implicated in the case to surrender and face the charges against them.
The DILG Secretary warned that no one is beyond the reach of the law and that the government is determined to recover money allegedly stolen from the public.
“To all those accused, think carefully. Death will not protect you, it will only bring greater shame to your family. Face the charges. Man up and answer the charges. Have faith in the judicial system,” Remulla said.
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