MANILA, Philippines — Authorities have ruled out foul play in the death of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina “Cathy” Cabral, as investigators continue piecing together the circumstances surrounding her fatal fall in Tuba, Benguet last week.
Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Tuesday that preliminary investigations and autopsy findings show no evidence of criminal involvement in Cabral’s death. The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and police have so far ruled out foul play, with authorities pointing to a possible suicide as the cause.
Remulla confirmed that forensic examinations, including fingerprint identification, have established that the body found at the bottom of a ravine on Kennon Road was that of Cabral. According to officials, the autopsy revealed injuries consistent with a fall and no signs of external assault such as gunshot wounds, ligature marks, or stab wounds.
Emergency responders discovered Cabral unconscious near the Bued River on the night of December 18, after she was separated from her driver earlier in the afternoon. She was pronounced dead shortly after being recovered from the ravine.
Investigators have also noted behavioral and physical indicators that align with intentional self-harm, including the nature of her injuries. Interior Secretary Remulla said that the pattern and location of the fall suggest a deliberate act rather than an accidental slip.
Cabral’s remains tested positive for antidepressant medication in toxicology reports, further fueling a suicide investigation, authorities said.
Police are still working to recover and analyze evidence from Cabral’s belongings, including her mobile phone and electronic devices, which Remulla said could provide insights into her state of mind and any potential threats prior to her death.
Cabral had resigned from the DPWH in September amid scrutiny over alleged anomalies in flood control projects. She consistently denied involvement in any wrongdoing and had maintained cooperation with investigators prior to her death.
While foul play has been officially ruled out by authorities, the unusual circumstances of Cabral’s death have drawn attention from lawmakers and the public, with some calling for further inquiry into all aspects of the case.
