Akbayan Party-list Representative Chel Diokno expressed regret over the delayed issuance of cyber warrants in cases involving the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) infrastructure projects, following the death of former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral.

Diokno said that had the cyber warrants been issued earlier, authorities could have immediately secured critical documents and electronic files reportedly held by Cabral.

The lawmaker further expressed that since Cabral had passed away, it would be more difficult to obtain and preserve her gadgets and personal belongings that could serve as evidence.

The lawmaker noted that he had already urged DPWH officials, led by Secretary Vince Dizon, during a budget hearing to ensure the safeguarding of files and electronic devices related to alleged irregularities in infrastructure projects.

According to Diokno, more than two months have passed since he called for the immediate use of cyber warrants, which were only implemented shortly after Cabral’s death.

In light of this, Diokno voiced his support for a comprehensive congressional investigation into Cabral’s death and her alleged role in anomalies involving flood control and other infrastructure projects.