Malacañang has publicly challenged Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste to provide concrete evidence to back his allegations concerning insertions in the 2025 national budget. The call was made on Friday, December 27, 2025, by Palace Press Officer Claire Castro.
Palace Demands Verified Facts, Rejects Unverified Lists
In a strong statement, Castro responded to Leviste's recent claims, which involved a list of proponents for infrastructure budget insertions allegedly obtained from the late DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. Leviste had suggested that Castro verify the list's authenticity with DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon.
Castro firmly turned the demand for proof back to the congressman. "Why should this representation prove the alleged 'Cabral's files' he claims to possess?" she asked. She emphasized that since Leviste was the one who brought the documents to public attention, the responsibility to authenticate them lies solely with him.
"He has started bragging about them, so it is his responsibility to prove their authenticity. Why should he shift his responsibility to others?" Castro stated.
Alleged Documents Dismissed as 'Hearsay'
Castro cast serious doubt on the validity of the so-called "Cabral files," suggesting they could be altered or completely fabricated. She insisted that any accusations must be supported by verified facts and official documents from the concerned agencies.
"So, before anyone speaks and accuses someone, they should substantiate their claims with verified facts and documents," she asserted in both English and Filipino. She added that proponents of such claims should not pressure others to validate their allegations.
The Palace official also addressed reports linking First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos to a project in the leaked documents. Castro stated the lists remain "questionable," and pointed out that there is no proof the alleged infrastructure project in Cauayan City, Isabela, ever materialized.
"There is no proof that they really come from DPWH," Castro declared. "Unless the documents come from DPWH, we could not give the alleged 'Cabral files' or any list from an unknown source any probative value. It is nothing but hearsay and can be treated as mere fabricated documents."
Malacañang Denies Any Cover-Up
Castro also responded to insinuations of a "cover-up" from Senate President Pro Tempore Panfilo Lacson. Lacson had made the remark after Castro previously dismissed the allegations involving Cabinet members as hearsay without probative value.
"With all due respect to Sen. Lacson, it is the alleged 'Cabral's files' without yet being authenticated by the DPWH that remain hearsay and without probative value," Castro explained. She clarified that the discussion was centered solely on the "unverified 'Leviste list.'"
She concluded firmly, "It is not acceptable to insinuate that the Palace is 'covering-up' for someone." The statement underscores the Palace's position that the burden of proof rests entirely on the accuser until official verification is provided.
