PNP ready to provide technical assistance in forensic audit of 'Cabral files'
photo: PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to provide technical assistance in the validation of the so-called “Cabral files”, a set of documents and records by the late DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral which have become a central issue to the ongoing investigation into flood control anomalies.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said he already directed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to be on standby to ensure readiness for any formal request for technical assistance or forensic audit.
“The Philippine National Police is always ready to provide assistance on this matter as part of our commitment for truth, transparency and accountability,” said Nartatez.
“We have been assisting in the verification and investigation processes on questionable infrastructure projects, we are ready to do more in the interest of the public,” he added.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon earlier stated that he supports the release of the list of infrastructure projects reportedly inserted or endorsed by politicians in previous budgets, which are said to have been compiled by Cabral.
He stressed, however, that these documents, including Cabral’s computer, need to undergo a forensic audit first.
Nartatez said that a forensic audit, if warranted, can help establish authenticity and integrity of the documents. He said the police organization would wait for a formal request from any authorized body for a forensic audit.
Once secured, he said the PNP, through the ACG, will fully cooperate while strictly following standard operating procedures and existing laws.
"The Philippine National Police is committed to supporting such initiatives while upholding the highest standards of law enforcement," said Nartatez, as he
reiterated the PNP’s commitment to assist in processes that aim to establish the authenticity and integrity of critical documents.