CABRAL DEATH LIKELY FROM FALL, AUTOPSY SHOWS — REMULLA

Initial autopsy findings have confirmed that former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary Ma. Catalina “Cathy” Cabral died from blunt force trauma consistent with a fall, according to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

Remulla ordered an immediate autopsy on Cabral’s remains, invoking the authority of the Philippine National Police (PNP), following reported operational lapses by local authorities in Tuba, Benguet. The forensic examination revealed extensive injuries, including fractures to the face and skull, broken ribs that penetrated internal organs, and fractures to both legs.

“So far, we have not seen any signs of foul play,” Remulla said, citing the absence of gunshot wounds, indications of a struggle, or foreign skin cells beneath the victim’s fingernails.

CCTV backtracking at the hotel where Cabral stayed showed she was alone when she entered and exited the premises. Earlier that morning, she was reportedly seen stopping at a portion of Kennon Road—the same area where she later fell—looking down into the ravine before being asked by police to leave.

Cabral later checked into a hotel in Baguio City alone, exited about an hour later, instructed her driver to leave, and shortly thereafter fell to her death, Remulla said.

The DILG chief also disclosed that Cabral’s spouse has agreed to turn over her mobile phone for forensic analysis, stressing that any potential evidence tampering would be addressed through standard procedures.

Cabral died Thursday night after an alleged fall into a deep ravine along Kennon Road. The PNP earlier said Cabral’s driver, who was last seen with her, is being treated as a person of interest and is undergoing examination to clarify the circumstances surrounding her death.

Investigations remain ongoing.

— via TPNC Global Newsdesk