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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider ICI calls for probe on Cabral's death, says her files must be preserved

ICI calls for probe on Cabral's death, says her files must be preserved

Published Dec 19, 2025 09:22 am

At A Glance

  • ​The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has called on law enforcement agencies to investigate the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Catalina Cabral and find out whether or not there was any foul play.
​The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) has called on law enforcement agencies to investigate the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Catalina Cabral and find out whether or not there was any foul play.
Cabral, who fell to her death in Tuba, Benguet on Thursday, Dec. 18, was one of the implicated personalities in anomalous flood control projects. Based on investigations, she allegedly made sure that requests for infrastructure projects made by lawmakers to the DPWH would come to fruition.
"As the former undersecretary for planning, she was no doubt privy to vital information," ICI Executive Director Brian Hosaka said in a statement.
Cabral was expected to attend the ICI hearing last Dec. 15, the body's last hearing for the year. But she did not confirm her attendance.
ICI also asked law enforcement agencies to secure and preserve all her documents, gadgets, and computers for possible digital forensics examination.
"The commission likewise calls for a prompt and thorough investigation of the death of Usec. Cabral to ensure that there is no foul play," Hosaka said.
And if authorities would be able to determine foul play, then "it is possible that those responsible may also be connected to the anomalous infrastructure projects", the ICI official said.
"The commission extends its condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the former DPWH undersecretary," Hosaka added.
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