MANILA, Philippines — Investigators from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) are examining the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral in Baguio City.
Authorities said Cabral tested positive for an antidepressant drug and are reviewing her electronic devices and office records as part of the investigation.
The PNP said investigators recovered medication and a knife from Cabral’s hotel room at the Ayon Hotel. CCTV footage showed her arriving at the hotel with her driver, checking in at the reception, and later leaving the premises separately. Police said the driver has been cleared of involvement in her death.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said a postmortem showed extensive injuries to Cabral’s face, skull, rib cage, and hands, consistent with a fall from a height. Based on current evidence, investigators do not consider foul play the primary cause.
Authorities are examining Cabral’s cellphone to identify messages or communications in the days before her death. The DPWH has turned over her office computers and files to the Office of the Ombudsman, including records related to National Expenditure Program requests over the past 10 years.
Investigators previously linked Cabral to alleged infrastructure-related anomalies, including an allegedly overpriced rock netting project near where her body was found. The PNP, NBI, and the Office of the Ombudsman said their investigations into her death and related documents are ongoing.
