The Philippine National Police (PNP) said they will coordinate with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) and the Office of the Ombudsman to expedite the forensic investigation into the so-called “Cabral Files.”

This was announced by acting PNP Chief PLtGen. Jose Melencsio Nartatez Jr., after the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) committed to submit the computer, data storage device, and other documents of the late and former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral.

In a statement, Nartatez said that he had already ordered the documented standard operating procedure for handling sensitive files to ensure the chain of custody, as reported by RH Edniel Parrosa. Moreover, Nartatez mentioned that the PNP should consider all internal and external recommendations for forensic analysis, which are expected to help unmask those involved in the flood control scandal.

Meanwhile, Nartatez also reported that a knife and several medicines were recovered from Cabral’s last hotel room, before she was found lifeless along Kennon Road in Tuba, Benguet. This followed the execution of a search warrant by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Cordillera Police, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

They reportedly collected tissue samples during the autopsy to determine whether the medicines found were used by the former DPWH undersecretary.

The DPWH formally turned over the computer and documents from Cabral’s office in compliance with a Subpoena Duces Tecum issued by the Office of the Ombudsman.