Ombudsman to DPWH: Turn over computers, devices issued to Cabral

The Office of the Ombudsman has issued a subpoena directing the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to produce and turn over all computers and devices issued to former undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

“Upon turnover, these devices will be subjected to forensic examination by a law enforcement agency to determine whether any data was altered, deleted, or tampered with after the Flood Control Scandal was first made public,” Ombudsman spokesperson Mico Clavano said in a statement on Monday.

He added they expect prompt and full compliance from the DPWH.

In response, DPWH said it will surrender all data storage devices, documents, records, and files under the office of former Cabral to the Office of the Ombudsman and the Philippine National Police.

“The Department remains committed to transparency and will continue to cooperate fully with investigating bodies to provide any further assistance required in the ongoing inquiry,” the DPWH said in a statement.

Cabral, who has been linked to anomalous flood control projects, was found on December 18 “unconscious and unresponsive” 20 to 30 meters below a highway hours after she instructed her driver to leave her at a portion of Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet.

She was later pronounced dead shortly after midnight on December 19.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Cabral surveyed the ravine in Tuba, which may indicate the "seriousness of the intent" to jump to her death.

However, the Philippine National Police earlier said that while some evidence points to a possible suicide, its investigation is still ongoing and no conclusion has yet to be reached. — RF, GMA Integrated News