Ex-DPWH Usec found dead in Benguet ravine

Former Department of Public Works and Highways Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral was found dead at a ravine along Kennon Road, Camp 5, Tuba, Benguet.

Her driver reported her missing after she asked to be left alone near the cliff around 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, and he could not find her upon returning at 5 p.m.

Police discovered her unconscious and unresponsive near the Bued River, an estimated 20 to 30 meters below the highway.

First responders retrieved her remains shortly after midnight, and a physician officially declared her dead at 12:02 a.m. Friday.

The DPWH expressed condolences to Cabral's family, recognizing her more than 40 years of service to the agency.

The incident is under investigation, and authorities have been directed to secure her electronic devices.

Cabral had previously been linked to allegations concerning budget insertions and kickbacks related to flood control projects, which she denied.