The Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) on Friday called for a full investigation into the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Catalina Cabral, cautioning that her demise may be linked to the ongoing probe into anomalous flood control projects.
Cabral, a central figure connected to the allegedly irregular flood mitigation projects, was declared dead early Friday after her body was recovered from the Bued River in Tuba, Benguet. Authorities pronounced her dead at 12:03 a.m.
In a statement, the ICI said Cabral’s former role as undersecretary for planning gave her access to “vital information” related to infrastructure projects now under investigation.
“We therefore ask law enforcement agencies to immediately secure and preserve all her documents, gadgets and computers for possible digital forensics examination,” the commission said.
The fact-finding body created by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. also urged authorities to carry out a “prompt and thorough investigation” to determine whether foul play was involved in Cabral’s death.
“If evidence of wrongdoing is established, those responsible may also be connected to the anomalous infrastructure projects,” the commission warned.
The ICI, which has been examining alleged public works irregularities spanning more than a decade, also expressed sympathy to Cabral’s family.
“The commission extends its condolences to the bereaved family and friends of the former DPWH undersecretary,” it said.
Cabral had been linked to allegations of a kickback scheme within the DPWH and was among officials named in connection with irregularities in flood control projects, including a ₱95.04 million undertaking in Bocaue, Bulacan.
She resigned in September after more than four decades in government service and had been recommended for administrative charges for alleged violations of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.