In a recent press briefing, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin 'Boying' Remulla unveiled a significant development regarding the investigation into the late Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral. The Office of the Ombudsman has reported that it cannot locate certain documents from the government-owned computer or gadget turned over by the DPWH following Cabral's passing.
Missing Documents in the 'Cabral Files'
According to Ombudsman Remulla, upon opening the device submitted by the DPWH, officials discovered that the files were incomplete, with portions missing from what has been termed the 'Cabral files.' This revelation has prompted the agency to focus on documents stored in the cloud associated with the device as a primary source for their inquiry.
Confusion and Resolution Efforts
Remulla explained that confusion surrounding these files has arisen, leading to current efforts by the Ombudsman to resolve the issue. He emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, though no additional details were provided to maintain the integrity of the probe.
Authentication Problems and Evidentiary Value
A major hurdle in this case, as admitted by Ombudsman Remulla, is the difficulty in authenticating the documents found on Cabral's computer. He stated that he cannot assign any 'evidentiary value' to these files, meaning their importance and potential contribution to building a case remain uncertain.
The primary concern lies with the 'chain of custody' of these documents, which poses a significant problem for the Ombudsman's office. Without a clear and verifiable trail, the files may not hold up as direct evidence in any legal proceedings.
Guidance Versus Evidence
Despite these challenges, Remulla noted that any information uncovered could still serve as a guide for the investigation. However, it is unlikely to be used as direct evidence in a potential case, highlighting the complexities involved in handling such sensitive government records.
The Ombudsman's office continues to work on authenticating and organizing the 'Cabral files,' aiming to clarify the confusion and ensure a thorough investigation into this matter.
