Ex-DPWH Usec. Cabral's files now under Ombudsman custody
Files of the late Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral are now in the custody of the Ombudsman.
The DPWH made the turn over on Dec. 23, in compliance with the subpoena duces tecum of the Office of the Ombudsman issued on Monday, Dec. 22.
DPWH Undersecretaries Nicasio Conti, Arthur Bisnar, Ricardo Bernabe III and Charles Calima Jr. led the turnover, which includes Cabral's computer and documents accumulated in the past 10 years related to the programming of the National Expenditure Program.
DPWH also swore to cooperate with the Ombudsman and other agencies in their investigation of individuals involved in the flood control scandal.
On Thursday, Dec. 18, Cabral died after allegedly falling off a ravine along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet. She was one of the former DPWH officials accused of facilitating budget insertions through the NEP by way of substandard and ghost projects and faced administrative charges.
Former DPWH Usec. Roberto Bernardo alleged that Cabral is involved in kickbacks that benefited several public officials including lawmakers.
The next day, Dec. 19, the Office of the Ombudsman has ordered the DPWH to submit to them all devices and documents under Cabral's office for investigation.
On Dec. 22, Sen. Ping Lacson said that Cabral's files are now in the hands of proper authorities.
