MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it is prepared to provide technical support for a possible forensic audit of the so-called “Cabral files,” a set of documents that has become central to probes into alleged anomalies in flood control projects.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. announced that he has directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to remain on standby in case a formal request is made for technical assistance or forensic analysis.
“We have been assisting in the verification and investigation of questionable infrastructure projects. We are ready to do more in the interest of the public,” Nartatez said in a statement.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon earlier expressed support for the possible disclosure of a list of infrastructure projects allegedly inserted or endorsed by lawmakers in previous national budgets.
The list was reportedly compiled by the late DPWH undersecretary Catalina Cabral.
However, Dizon stressed that Cabral’s records, including her computer and other digital files, should first undergo a thorough forensic audit to determine their authenticity and integrity.
Nartatez echoed this position, saying that a forensic review, if required, would help validate the credibility of the documents and ensure findings are backed by evidence.
He added that once a request is made, the PNP, through the ACG, would cooperate while observing established protocols and existing laws.
“Mahalaga sa amin na malinaw, maayos, at evidence-based ang anumang findings,” he said, emphasizing the police force’s commitment to accountability.
The “Cabral files” have sparked heightened public interest amid renewed calls for transparency in government infrastructure spending, particularly involving flood control projects that have long faced allegations of irregularities.