Former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral has been summoned by the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) for its December 15 hearing, the final session scheduled for the year.
Cabral was earlier implicated in alleged budget insertions and kickbacks linked to flood control projects.
ICI executive director Brian Hosaka confirmed on Thursday, December 11, that a subpoena had already been issued to Cabral, though the commission is still waiting for her confirmation.
“The commission just wants to verify certain information, more information,” Hosaka said when asked about her invitation to the inquiry.
The ICI previously urged the Ombudsman to file administrative charges against Cabral over questionable projects in Bulacan.
Her former colleague, former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, earlier accused her of receiving cuts and controlling insertions in infrastructure projects under the National Expenditure Program (NEP).
Hosaka noted that Cabral may be the final resource person for the year as the commission aims to conclude hearings by December 15—coinciding with the last day in office of ICI commissioner Rogelio “Babes” Singson, who stepped down due to health reasons.
“Sa ngayon, wala pang decision ang commission on whether or not hearings will continue despite the commission lacking one member,” Hosaka added.
While public hearings will end on December 15, the commission’s internal work, including case buildups, will continue until December 24.