Family seeks compassion, privacy after Cabral’s deathMANILA, Philippines — The family of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral appealed for compassion and restraint following her sudden death, urging the public to respect their need for privacy as they grieve. It also dismissed claims that Cabral and her family faked her death as “reckless and baseless.”In the same statement, the family reiterated Cabral’s “consistent and unequivocal” denial of any involvement in alleged anomalous flood control projects. The family also slammed allegations made by former DPWH undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, describing his testimony as uncorroborated and self-serving. She denied facilitating kickback schemes but was included among officials recommended for possible administrative charges over a P95-million flood control project in Bocaue, Bulacan. Cabral’s death has raised concerns among officials, with Rep. Perci Cendaña asking whether she would become the “fall guy” in the broader flood control scandal.

Source: Philippine Star December 20, 2025 08:29 UTC