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Advocates Philippines
Cabral Family Pleads For Compassion After Sudden Death
Photo credit: Senate PH
As questions swirl around the sudden passing of former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina E. Cabral, her family is asking the public for one thing above all else: compassion.
In an official statement released through their legal counsel, the family appealed for restraint, humanity, and respect as they grieve what they described as an overwhelming and deeply painful loss. They urged the public to avoid speculation and commentary that could further deepen their sorrow.
The statement stressed that there is no legal basis for calls to seize Cabral’s phone or other personal belongings, noting that no criminal, civil, or administrative complaint has ever been filed against her. According to the family’s lawyer, such demands are “unwarranted” and only add to the distress of those left behind.
The family also called for the immediate release of Cabral’s remains so they can begin mourning privately and lay her to rest with dignity. They clarified that DNA testing is unnecessary, as her family has already positively identified her remains. Claims circulating online that her death was faked were strongly denounced as reckless, baseless, and deeply insensitive.
Addressing the allegations linked to supposed anomalous flood control projects, the statement reiterated Cabral’s consistent and firm denial of any wrongdoing. Her family highlighted her more than 40 years of public service at the DPWH, a career they said was marked by diligence, perseverance, and an unwavering sense of duty.
The lawyer also pushed back against accusations made by former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, pointing out that his testimony remains uncorroborated and that he admitted he never personally witnessed Cabral receiving any alleged “commissions.” The statement added that Cabral was prepared to confront the accusations directly and had repeatedly shown her willingness to cooperate with investigations, including those conducted by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, the House Infrastructure Committee, and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Contrary to reports, the family said Cabral failed to attend a December 15 hearing at the ICI simply because she never received any official notice.
“It is deeply unfortunate,” the statement read, “that despite the absence of any finding of fault, her name continued to be dragged into what appears to be a public shaming campaign for political gain.”
As they navigate their loss, the family made a final appeal: that Maria Catalina Cabral be remembered with fairness and compassion—and that they be given the space to grieve in peace.
In an official statement released through their legal counsel, the family appealed for restraint, humanity, and respect as they grieve what they described as an overwhelming and deeply painful loss. They urged the public to avoid speculation and commentary that could further deepen their sorrow.
The statement stressed that there is no legal basis for calls to seize Cabral’s phone or other personal belongings, noting that no criminal, civil, or administrative complaint has ever been filed against her. According to the family’s lawyer, such demands are “unwarranted” and only add to the distress of those left behind.
The family also called for the immediate release of Cabral’s remains so they can begin mourning privately and lay her to rest with dignity. They clarified that DNA testing is unnecessary, as her family has already positively identified her remains. Claims circulating online that her death was faked were strongly denounced as reckless, baseless, and deeply insensitive.
Addressing the allegations linked to supposed anomalous flood control projects, the statement reiterated Cabral’s consistent and firm denial of any wrongdoing. Her family highlighted her more than 40 years of public service at the DPWH, a career they said was marked by diligence, perseverance, and an unwavering sense of duty.
The lawyer also pushed back against accusations made by former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo, pointing out that his testimony remains uncorroborated and that he admitted he never personally witnessed Cabral receiving any alleged “commissions.” The statement added that Cabral was prepared to confront the accusations directly and had repeatedly shown her willingness to cooperate with investigations, including those conducted by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, the House Infrastructure Committee, and the Office of the Ombudsman.
Contrary to reports, the family said Cabral failed to attend a December 15 hearing at the ICI simply because she never received any official notice.
“It is deeply unfortunate,” the statement read, “that despite the absence of any finding of fault, her name continued to be dragged into what appears to be a public shaming campaign for political gain.”
As they navigate their loss, the family made a final appeal: that Maria Catalina Cabral be remembered with fairness and compassion—and that they be given the space to grieve in peace.
Dec 20, 2025
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