The family of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral opposed authorities’ order for an autopsy amid suspicious circumstances surrounding her death.
Both the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct an autopsy, with the DILG also ordering a DNA test to confirm the identity of the remains.
Cabral’s husband, Cesar, said the family has already identified the body.
“Ako na nagsasabi, asawa ko ‘yan. Nanay nila ‘yan. Ano pa gusto nilang i-prove? Maghahanap sila ng ibang tao?” he said.
The family maintains her death was an accident and no foul play occurred.
“Magpa-Pasko. Masamahan ko man lang ‘yung asawa ko ngayong Pasko,” Cesar added.
He recalled, “Nagpunta siya dito para mag-unwind. Nakausap ko pa siya… Sabi ko bakit ‘di ka um-attend du’n sa meeting sa ICC?”
Authorities, however, said they still cannot fully rule out foul play.