The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it was prepared to extend technical assistance for a possible forensic audit of the so-called “Cabral files,” which allegedly contain information linked to a flood control controversy.

RH Edniel Parrosa reported that acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) has been placed on standby to conduct a forensic examination should authorities formally request it.

The move follows a statement by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, who said he supports the release of a list reportedly compiled by former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral involving politicians allegedly connected to the flood control scandal.

Dizon stressed that any release of the documents must first undergo a forensic audit to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the gadgets and files involved.

However, Nartatez clarified that, as of now, the PNP has not received any copy of the Cabral files. Despite this, he emphasized that the ACG remains ready to respond to any request for technical assistance related to the matter.

Earlier, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño told DZRH News that the Office of the Ombudsman has already coordinated with the PNP-ACG after the DPWH turned over several computers allegedly used by Cabral to the Ombudsman’s office.

According to Tuano, the Ombudsman will be responsible for providing the relevant files to the PNP-ACG for proper forensic examination, as part of its ongoing investigation into the issue.