DPWH set to hand over records to Ombudsman in probe on late ex-undersecretary
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- DPWH to turn over all records and data storage devices related to the late former undersecretary Maria Catalina E. Cabral.
- Submission follows a subpoena issued by the Ombudsman on Dec. 22.
- Records will undergo forensic examination by the PNP–Anti-Cybercrime Group.
- Failure to comply may lead to criminal and administrative charges.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon (Photo: DPWH)
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will promptly submit all documents, files, and data storage devices related to the late former undersecretary Maria Catalina E. Cabral to the Office of the Ombudsman.
The records are set to be turned over immediately and in proper form following a subpoena issued by the Ombudsman’s Field Investigation Office II on Dec. 22.
Data storage devices will be handed over with the proper authority to the Philippine National Police–Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) for forensic examination.
The subpoena directs DPWH Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon or a duly authorized representative to submit clear and certified true copies of all documents, records, papers, and files under Cabral’s office from the Planning and Public-Private Partnership Services.
It also requires the records custodian to provide an attestation confirming the custody and correctness of the submitted documents.
A sworn certification must also explain if any requested records or devices are unavailable.
Issued under the Constitution and Republic Act No. 6770, the subpoena warns that failure to comply may result in criminal charges under Article 233 of the Revised Penal Code and Presidential Decree No. 1829.
Administrative cases under Sections 33 and 36 of R.A. 6770 may likewise be filed for non-compliance.
The Ombudsman stressed that the subpoena and its contents remain strictly confidential under R.A. 6713.
DPWH, meanwhile, reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and pledged full cooperation throughout the investigation.