The Office of the Ombudsman on Thursday confirmed the dismissal of charges against former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral in connection with the alleged multi-million peso infrastructure fund irregularities being investigated by the agency.
During a press conference on Thursday, May 28, Assistant Ombudsman Atty. Mico Clavano announced that the charges against Cabral were formally dropped following her passing, citing provisions under the Revised Penal Code.
“The charges against former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cathy E. Cabral are formally dismissed by reason of her passing pursuant to the Revised Penal Code,” Clavano said.
Cabral was among the individuals initially named in the complaint involving alleged illegal budget insertions and project allocations within the DPWH infrastructure portfolio for fiscal year 2025.
The Ombudsman, however, proceeded with the filing of criminal information before the Sandiganbayan against several other officials, including Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, over alleged plunder and graft charges.
Clavano emphasized that while Cabral’s case has been dismissed due to her death, the Office of the Ombudsman remains committed to pursuing the remaining cases tied to the alleged corruption scheme.
“The Filipino people need to see justice. This office is here to make sure we deliver just that,” he stated.
The Ombudsman said the cases are now being formally docketed before the Sandiganbayan for judicial evaluation and possible issuance of warrants against the principal respondents.
